Shows & Schedule

Nickel Creek's performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 2014 was a captivating blend of musical virtuosity, heartfelt storytelling, and infectious energy. As one of the most anticipated acts of the festival, the trio—comprised of Chris Thile, Sara Watkins, and Sean Watkins—graced the stage with their signature blend of contemporary bluegrass and folk-infused melodies, captivating the audience from the very first note.

Their setlist was a carefully curated journey through their extensive catalog of beloved songs, featuring both classic fan favorites and tracks from their latest album at the time, "A Dotted Line." From the intricate instrumentation of Chris Thile's mandolin to Sara Watkins' soul-stirring fiddle solos and Sean Watkins' masterful guitar work, each member of Nickel Creek showcased their remarkable talent and musical prowess throughout the performance.

But perhaps what truly set Nickel Creek's Newport Folk Festival performance apart was the palpable sense of camaraderie and joy that permeated the stage. As lifelong friends and musical collaborators, the trio's onstage chemistry was undeniable, with each member seamlessly complementing the others' contributions to create a harmonious and electrifying sound.

Highlights of their set included standout performances of tracks such as "Destination," "21st of May," and "Rest of My Life," each delivered with a passion and intensity that resonated deeply with the audience. Additionally, their rendition of the traditional folk song "The Fox" showcased Nickel Creek's ability to breathe new life into timeless classics, infusing them with their own unique style and flair.

As the sun began to set over Newport Harbor, Nickel Creek's performance reached its crescendo with an electrifying encore that left the crowd cheering for more. It was a moment of pure musical magic—one that captured the essence of the Newport Folk Festival and solidified Nickel Creek's status as one of the most dynamic and captivating acts in contemporary folk music.

In the years since their performance at Newport Folk 2014, Nickel Creek has continued to enchant audiences around the world with their extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to their craft. But for those lucky enough to have been in attendance that summer evening in Rhode Island, their performance remains a cherished memory—a testament to the enduring power of live music to unite, inspire, and uplift us all.