Legendary blues artist Keb’ Mo’ gives the Palace Theatre an intimate evening of music

By Dave Parsons

On the warm evening of June 4, 2024, the small town of Greensburg, Pennsylvania saw a large crowd gather outside the Palace Theatre, a venue known for its rich history and superb acoustics. It was the perfect setting for a night with the legendary blues artist Keb’ Mo’. 

The theatre, a beautiful historical gem, provided an intimate setting, as only theaters of that generation can.  With its grand architecture and comfortable seating, every attendee had a perfect view of the stage.   As the lights dimmed and the first notes of music filled the air, it was clear that this would be a night to remember.

Keb’ Mo’ took the stage with his characteristic laid-back charm, dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit that mirrored his music’s blend of simplicity and sophistication. With a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye, he greeted the audience, setting a friendly and welcoming tone for the evening. His band, a group of exceptionally talented musicians, took their places, ready to embark on a musical journey that would cover a broad spectrum of emotions and styles.

The concert opened with Somebody Hurt You, a track that showcases Keb’ Mo’s signature blend of blues, folk, and roots music. Keb’ Mo’s rich and soulful voice, filling up the theatre, enveloping the listeners in a warm, comforting embrace whiule commanding attention to the lyrics.

Keb’ Mo’ followed up with Looks Like Love and the playful Government Cheese.  Considering that a lot of audiences today are doing almost anything except listening to the music being performed, it was great to see the connection in the room as fans swayed and sang along, filling the room with positive energy. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, which is a theme that Keb’ Mo’ often explores in his music.

As the night went along, Keb’ Mo’ took the audience on a journey through his extensive catalog of songs. From the wistful ’62 Chevy, to the female audience winning Put A Woman In Charge, to Shave Yo’ Legs, you get the feeling the audience was not worried about what time they had to be up in the morning for work, and would have stayed as long as the 72 year old entertainer wanted to play for them. 

Keb’ Mo’ engaged with the audience, sharing stories and anecdotes that provided insight into his songs and his life. His easygoing demeanor and genuine warmth made the large theatre feel like a small, cozy gathering of friends. Whether he was talking about the inspiration behind a song or sharing a humorous story from his travels, Keb’ Mo’ had the audience hanging on his every word.

One of the highlights of the evening was one of his signature songs, Am I Wrong. The audience burst into applause as the familiar opening chords rang out, and Keb’ Mo’ delivered a performance that was both powerful and intimate. The raw emotion in his voice and the precision of his guitar playing created a moment of pure musical magic.

As the concert drew to a close, Keb’ Mo’ treated the audience to a stunning rendition of Marvelous To Me.  It was a fitting end to a night that celebrated the power of music to bring people together and uplift the spirit.

The applause at the end of the concert was long, a testament to the evening they had just experienced. As I watched the audience slowly filed out of the theatre, there was a sense of having been part of something special. His ability to connect with his audience reminded everyone in Greensburg of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring people together.

Phillip-Michael Scales took the stage before Keb’ Mo’, with a confident yet humble presence, charismatic smile and easygoing demeanor that established a connection with audience.

The concert began with Feels Like Home, a song that showcases Scales’ ability to blend melodies with thoughtful lyrics. Scales has a voice that is both powerful and nuanced, and capable of bringing the emotions. His guitar playing, complimented with pedals on the floor that can create backing drums, vocals, etc, at will, complemented his vocals perfectly.  You can add in, as I found out after the show, he was improvising the setlist as he went.

As the night progressed, Scales performed a mix of songs from his debut album, Sinner-Songwriter as well as some newer material. Tracks like When They Put Me in My Grave and Light Up the Sky showed his versatility as an artist.  His song, Be My Own Man, summed up why he is one of the most exciting new voices in music today.  He does his music like few others out there today. Expect big things from him in the future.

Phillip-Michael Scales Setlist

  1.)  Feels Like Home

  2.)  Better Than You

  3.)  When They Put Me in My Grave 

  4.)  My Oh My

  5.)  Be My Own Man

  6.)  How Many Times?

  7.)  Your Love Is Working Me to The Bone

  8.)  Shame

  9.)  Light Up The Sky

10.)  Find A Way

Keb’ Mo’ Setlist

  1.)  Somebody Hurt You

  2.)  Looks Like Love

  3.)  Government Cheese 

  4.)  Tell Everybody I Know

  5.)  This Is My Home

  6.)  The Old Me Better

  7.)  Change

  8.)  Good To Be (Home Again)

  9.)  ’62 Chevy

10.)  Put A Woman in Charge

11.)  Shave Yo’ Legs

12.)  Life Is Beautiful

13.)  I Remember You

14.)  She Just Wants To Dance

15.)  Am I Wrong

16.)  Marvelous To Me