Under the soft amber glow of City Winery New York City’s intimate stage, John Waite delivered a stellar performance that was as much a time capsule as it was a testament to his enduring artistry. Known for his iconic contributions to rock, pop, and balladry, Waite’s career spans over four decades, including hits with The Babys, Bad English, and his successful solo ventures. Fans who packed the venue on this night were treated to a setlist that showcased the breadth of his musical journey, from radio-ready classics to heartfelt deep cuts.
A Brief Walk Down Memory Lane
Emerging in the late '70s as the frontman of The Babys, Waite made his mark with hits like "Every Time I Think of You" and "Midnight Rendezvous." He later transitioned to Bad English in the late '80s, co-writing chart-toppers like "When I See You Smile." As a solo artist, Waite’s timeless ballad "Missing You" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing his place in rock history.
A Setlist to Remember
Opening with "Change," a track originally recorded by Spider and later popularized by Waite, the night began on a vibrant note, setting the tone for an evening of musical nostalgia. The tempo ebbed and flowed beautifully, with crowd favorites like "Tears" and Bad English’s "Best of What I Got" eliciting roars of approval.
Waite’s voice, still as distinctive and emotive as ever, shone brightest during stripped-down moments like "Bluebird Cafe" and Vince Gill’s "Whenever You Come Around." These performances felt personal, as if Waite was sharing a piece of his soul with each lyric.
For fans of The Babys, the latter half of the set was a treasure trove: "Every Time I Think of You," "Head First," "Midnight Rendezvous," and "Back on My Feet Again" brought the energy levels soaring. Waite’s rendition of Led Zeppelin’s "Rock and Roll" closed the evening with a blistering homage to rock's golden era.
The Magic of Connection
Beyond the music, Waite’s easy charisma and storytelling added depth to the show. Between songs, he shared anecdotes and reflections, offering glimpses into his journey as an artist. This rapport transformed the concert into a communal experience, reminding the audience why his music has endured for generations.
A Night to Cherish
John Waite’s performance at City Winery NYC was a celebration of his legacy. Whether it was the aching sincerity of "Missing You" or the electrifying drive of "Head First," Waite proved that his voice and passion remain undiminished. Fans left not only reminiscing about the past but also inspired by an artist who continues to evolve while honoring his roots.
For those lucky enough to witness this performance, it was a night to hold onto, much like Waite’s timeless catalog of songs.
