Concert Review: Maggie Rose returns to Nashville to a relatively small but conversely loyal crowd
By: Dylan Basden
This was Maggie’s first headline show in Nashville in several years, but not her first appearance. Since 2021, Rose has played more than a dozen shows around town, from various opening slots, writers’ rounds, and many a stint at The Opry. The Nashville by-way-of Maryland singer is a sort of musician’s musician, receiving a ton of praise from both critics and contemporaries. This becomes very clear live, where you can see Maggie’s skills as both a performer and a musician first hand.
Maggie Rose is a dynamic performer to say the least. She is someone who has not only become masterful at her craft, captivating the audience and effortlessly controlling the stage, but is clearly a person who loves what she does. This type of energy is not only difficult to recreate, but I’d argue it is impossible. Many musicians are fantastic at what they do, but after dozens and dozens of shows it can often see the magic fade away. They can still put on a great show, but some of that initial passion may be gone. Maggie Rose defies this, she has such a joyous energy on stage that it is made very clear there is only one thing she wants to be doing in that moment.
I mentioned fantastic performers, Maggie Rose and her backing band definitely fit this bill as well. Maggie is a powerhouse vocalist, certainly a defining feature of her music. Her strong punches and gentle pull aways drawn on her influences in country, soul, pop, and rock. With help from her band she managed to blend these influences into a sound that is uniquely her own; intimate, detailed writing taken from country music; deep, groovy bass and swelling soul vocals; ear-wormy pop hooks; and oftentimes blistering rock performances. This show is exhilarating, letting off the gas only to provide sweet relief in scaled back ballads, once again showcasing Maggie’s top-notch vocal ability.
Out in support of her new album, No One Gets Out Alive, Maggie was sure to add in plenty of new tracks to her setlist. One stand-out track was “Fake Flowers,” a cut that tells a story of self-empowerment and treating others with compassion. This theme is pretty common across Maggie’s discography, Maggie is a big advocate for self-love and the value of kindness. This show is very empowering, with a clear impact on Rose’s fans, especially those who were camped out on the rail.
Maggie Rose very well may not be on your radar, let alone in your ticket wallet. I would recommend that changes, as I believe she is one of the more vigorous performers touring right now, especially on the small venue circuit. Additionally, if you appreciate an act who will just lay everything out for a show, Maggie is a must see. Even if her music is not for you, she puts on a show that will only leave you wanting more.
You can find Maggie Rose’s upcoming shows here. // View the rest of the live gallery shot by Dylan here.