What a dream to photograph Noah Kahan’s amazing headline show at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado on July 26, 2023. Afternoon storms gave way to the most amazing sunset, blue hour and starry night.
The massive, enthusiastic sold-out crowd at Red Rocks buzzed with energy before Kahan stepped onto the stage. Since the June 2023 album release of Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever), it seems his connection with listeners has grown exponentially. Heartfelt lyrics, Kahan’s soulful stage presence and supporting band created a sacred thread between the stage and everyone cheering between the iconic rocks. Noah Kahan’s band includes Dylan Jones (keys, banjo), Noah Levine (guitar), Alex Bachari (bass) and Marco Valles (drums).
I learned five life lessons from Kahan immersed in the Red Rocks experience. 1.) Your mental health is important- get therapy or seek support and prioritize your mental health even if you are “fine.” 2.) It’s ok to do activities alone. Seek experiences and if you are solo sometimes; just do it. Kahan mentioned several of his own independent activities including trips to Hibachi restaurants. 3.) Take time to thank the nurturing souls that encourage you. His gratitude for his own mom and her support of his music journey was so heartfelt. He told stories about her driving him to gigs with only a few people in the audience while providing endless encouragement. 4.) Pursue and chase your dreams. Playing a headline show at Red Rocks was Kahan’s dream and his gratitude was enormous. Less than a year ago, he opened for Amos Lee at Red Rocks. 5.) Give back! Noah’s generosity related to his “The Busyhead Project” is already legendary. The project supports his passion for mental health initiatives. The Red Rocks show was live-streamed and all the proceeds were donated to support the Vermont Flood Response & Recovery Fund.
Nathaniel Rateliff made a special appearance singing along with Kahan during “She Calls Me Back.” After 15 songs, Kahan re-emerged for a 4-song encore including:
- The View Between Villages (Extended)
- Paul Revere
- Godlight
- Stick Season
Congratulations to the amazing couple who got engaged minutes before the lights dimmed.
Briston Mahoney started the show on July 26 opening under a golden sky.
