The Drive-By Truckers are set to take the stage at the Newport Folk Festival on Saturday, bringing both powerful music and a sharp message. Hailing from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the band offers songs that are raw, political, and focused on the experiences of those living on society’s fringes.
Political and Personal
Formed in the mid-1990s as a bar band, the Drive-By Truckers gradually gained a following. Led by songwriting duo Mike Cooley and Patterson Hood, their major breakthrough came in 2001 with the album Southern Rock Opera, celebrated by critics as a classic. This album honored Lynyrd Skynyrd while addressing themes of adolescence and growing up in the South.
This marks the band’s first appearance at the festival, known for its intense guitar work. While some may be surprised to see a rock band at a folk festival, co-founder Patterson Hood understands the connection. “Woody Guthrie was one of my earliest songwriting influences; he embodies folk music. Definitions today are pretty flexible, and I prefer it that way. What we do historically aligns with folk music,” Hood shared.
What it Means
While they share a musical legacy, the band’s political stance contrasts sharply with that of Skynyrd. Featuring a “Black Lives Matter” sign on stage, their critiques of the South extend to a broader critique of the nation. Their musical repertoire expanded with the release of their 2016 album American Band. Festival Producer Jay Sweet mentioned in an NPR interview that the band was among the top choices for the festival, particularly due to their impactful protest songs like “What it Means.” Hood elaborated:
“‘What it Means’ has its roots in folk and country. Influenced by Tom T. Hall’s story songs, which touched on political themes like the McGovern-Nixon campaign, I didn’t initially intend for it to be a protest song. It reflects my personal feelings and raises many questions without providing answers. Playing it with the band allowed us to turn it into something greater,” he explained.
Festival Plans
Though the band typically doesn’t stick to a set list, Hood intends to honor the festival’s rich history. “The first song will be chosen with respect for the Newport Folk Festival’s legacy. We thrive off the energy we feel in the moment. I believe we have something unique to contribute, and I hope to gain some new fans,” he noted.
Don’t miss the Drive-By Truckers on the Quad stage at 5:40, and check out their song “What it Means” below.
