Loretta Lynn, at age 81, is celebrating 50 plus years on the road and a stop at the Riviera Theatre this past Thursday night. After some health issues that forced her to postpone some shows for a few weeks, this was the first one she returned for.
With a 7-piece band that backed her, including her twin daughters Peggy and Patsy (who also double as her managers), they tackled her whole career in about an hour’s worth of time. Most of the songs were played in a medley form, compromised of small snippets from multiple songs combined into one.
Appearing in a beautiful, white sequined ball gown, she appeared in a fantastic mood delivering jokes before and in between her numbers. She performed her ode to the troops during the Vietnam War in “Dear Uncle Sam.” Even with time passing, this song still resonates today. She also paid tribute to what she believes was the greatest country singer ever in Conway Twitty with “Lead Me On,” enlisting the help of her male band mates.
With the weight of that gown (it was massive) and her recent health issues, Loretta performed a majority of her set sitting down. Just to witness Lynn at this stage of her career is an indulgence. She will be receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in December. She will be only the 2nd country artist to receive this honor (Ernie Ford was the first). With her Ranch hosting motocross and various concerts throughout the year, Lynn still tries to do as many shows as possible. With that in mind, a living legend who still tours and one who is considered a pioneer in their respective own genre is a rare occurrence. Most are gone unfortunately. So take advantage and go see her because it may be your last chance to do so!
Setlist:
They Don’t Make Em’ Like Daddy Anymore
If Your’re Lookin’ at Me, You’re Lookin’ at Country
When the Tingle Becomes a Chill
I Wanna Be Free
Love is The Foundation
Fist City/Honky Tonk Girl
She’s Got You (Patsy Cline cover)
Lead Me On (Conway Twitty cover-duet with the male musicians in her band)
One’s On the Way
Dear Uncle Sam
Your Squaw is on the Warpath
End of the Road (Her band only)
Peaceful Easy Feeling (The Eagles cover- Her band took over)
Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven
Where No One Stands Alone
Coal Miners Daughter
We would like to thank Craig Flynn from Loretta Lynn’s mgmt for the credentials to review the show.
