John Mellencamp’s performance hits its mark at The Bushnell

John Mellencamp at the bushnell in hartford Connecticut on March 13, 2024 — Photo by Kris Forland

John Mellencamp’s recent concert at The Bushnell in Hartford, CT, which he declared was a performance and not a concert,was spectacular. While many of the audience may have shown up to hear songs that evoke nostalgia, Mellencamp’s performance proved to be an unforgettable experience that stood firmly on its own merits–nostalgia be damned. It was an amazing show.

Throughout the evening, Mellencamp engaged the audience in a series of captivating interactions, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the concert. From the black-and-white movie clips that started the show, featuring what this writer presumes to be some of Mellencamp’s heroes, to his dynamic on-stage presence, every moment was filled with excitement and energy. One song, The Real Life, was a pre-recorded reading of the lyrics by the actress Joanne Woodward of Westport, CT. This recording had been made by Mellencamp and Woodward several years ago, after the death of her husband, actor, Paul Newman. Two of Mellencamp’s band members played a soft, acoustic accompaniment to the reading by the actress. It was a beautiful rendition of and already amazing song.

At 72 years old dressed in a blue one-piece mechanic’s overalls, Mellencamp defied expectations with his boundless energy and enthusiasm, delivering a performance rivaling much younger artists. His connection with the sold-out crowd was unmistakable, creating an electric atmosphere that permeated the venue.One of the highlights of the evening was Mellencamp’s sing-a-long version of Jack and Diane with the audience, in which the audience skipped a verse and went straight to the chorus. Mellencamp stopped the song, told them how hard it was to write that second verse at the age of 25, and started the song again with the correct verse. He was funny, thoughtful, and engaging throughout the night, and he didn’t miss a beat, even when the pink bras came flying out of the audience onto the stage during the song Pink Houses. It all simply added an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating performance. His charisma and stage presence were unmatched, keeping the audience captivated, singing, laughing, and standing from start to finish.

John Mellencamp’s performance at The Bushnell was a clear testament to an artist’s enduring talent and showmanship. It was great fun, and an amazing performance that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be in attendance.

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