Exciting news has emerged for music enthusiasts as Wilco and Billy Bragg have announced their first-ever “Mermaid Avenue” concert, set to premiere at the Solid Sound Festival. This remarkable event will take place in North Adams, Massachusetts, from June 26-28, 2026, and promises a unique opening night experience. “Mermaid Avenue” remains a standout project, weaving together Woody Guthrie‘s lost lyrics with original compositions by Wilco and Billy Bragg, capturing the spirit of folk music for a modern audience.
The Birth of “Mermaid Avenue”
The “Mermaid Avenue” project began in the mid-1990s when Wilco and Billy Bragg came together to breathe life into Woody Guthrie’s unpublished lyrics. This collaboration resulted in three critically acclaimed albums released between 1998 and 2012. Songs like the fan-favorite “California Stars” and gems such as “Hesitating Beauty” are testaments to their creative synergy. This partnership marked a pivotal moment for Wilco, transitioning their sound, and reintroduced Bragg to U.S. audiences, solidifying their mutual admiration for Guthrie’s folk legacy. Despite their success, a full live performance never materialized—until now.
Artist Reflections
Jeff Tweedy of Wilco expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The world needs all the Woody Guthrie it can get. We’re thrilled that we get to bring these songs to life with Billy.” Billy Bragg echoed Tweedy’s sentiments, adding, “There’s an abiding love out there for the ‘Mermaid Avenue’ albums, so I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with Wilco to bring Woody’s words to life once again.”
An Unmissable Festival Experience
The Solid Sound Festival, which began in 2010, consistently offers fans exclusive opening night performances. Previously, attendees have enjoyed all-covers and deep-cut sets. This year’s festival is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience, highlighting the unparalleled collaboration of Wilco and Billy Bragg. Set amid the contemporary art landscape of MASS MoCA, the festival’s unique atmosphere appeals to true music aficionados. Wilco loyalists and indie rock fans alike will find much to admire in this curated weekend of diverse sounds.
Tweedy’s Current Ventures
Jeff Tweedy is currently touring with his triple album, “Twilight Override,” impressing audiences with an expansive 30-song collection deemed a “whopper of an album” in a four-star review. Accompanied by his sons, Spencer and Sammy, along with longstanding collaborators, Tweedy recently appeared on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” performing tracks like “Enough” and “Lou Reed Was My Babysitter.” His tour continues across the U.S. and Europe, featuring memorable moments such as a riveting performance of Neil Young’s “Cortez the Killer” with Wilco’s Nels Cline in New York.
As the anticipation builds for the Solid Sound Festival, Wilco and Billy Bragg’s “Mermaid Avenue” concert promises to be a historical highlight in the musical landscape, honoring Guthrie’s enduring legacy with fresh, heartfelt interpretations.
