Joanne Shaw Taylor electrifies the stage at the historic Byham Theater

By Dave Parsons

Joanne Shaw Taylor electrified the stage at the historic Byham Theater in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on May 1, 2024, with a performance that left the audience in awe. With her distinctive voice, masterful guitar skills, and undeniable stage presence, Taylor proved once again why she is hailed as one of the finest blues-rock artists of this generation.

She and the band entered the stage without fanfare, and launched into In The Mood, followed by Keep On Lovin’ Me. Her setlist spanned her impressive career, blending blues, rock, and soul.

One of the highlights of the evening was Taylor’s guitar playing. She would be shredding through precision solos and be laying down soulful rhythms the next. Each note seemed to come straight from the heart, carrying with it raw emotions. The interaction with the band was heartfelt and not just going through the motions.

Just as much as Taylor’s musical prowess impressed, she also has a soulful voice and coupled with heartfelt lyrics draws the audience in. Including songs like I’ve Been Loving You Too Long showcases her ability to mix the lyrics and guitar emotions with honesty and authenticity, and making the audience feel.

This was not more evident than the follow up to I’ve Been Loving You Too Long. It may have been the running order, or the telling of the background of Fade Away, (the song was written about Taylor’s mom who passed in 2013), as a prequel to the song, but the performance saw the young lady next to me excusing herself to the ladies room before the song was over.

Stage presence, passion and connecting with the audience on a personal level are the things of blues legends and Joanne Shaw Taylor certainly delivers this to her audiences. She gave the Pittsburgh audience another reminder of why live music is a powerful experience, and why she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of blues and rock.

Joanne Shaw Taylor Setlist

1. In The Mood

2. Keep On Lovin’ Me

3.) All My Love

4.) If You Gotta Make a Fool of Somebody

5.) Can’t You See What You’re Doing to Me

6.) Dyin’ to Know

7.) Wild Love

8.) Won’t Be Fooled Again

9.) Watch ‘em Burn

10.) I’ve Been Loving You Too Long

11.) Fade Away