On a chilly winter evening in Toronto, the historic Massey Hall buzzed with anticipation. Fans from all walks of life gathered to witness the enigmatic Jack White, known for his genre-defying music and electrifying performances. As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted into applause, the unmistakable opening chords of “Old Scratch Blues” filled the air, setting the stage for a night of musical mastery.
Full Setlist
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Old Scratch Blues
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That’s How I’m Feeling
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Phonograph Blues (Robert Johnson cover, partial)
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It’s Rough on Rats (If You’re Asking)
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Stop Breakin’ Down Blues (Robert Johnson cover)
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Hotel Yorba (The White Stripes song)
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Broken Boy Soldier (The Raconteurs song)
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G.O.D. and the Broken Ribs (Live debut)
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What’s the Rumpus?
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High Ball Stepper
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Why Walk a Dog?
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Sixteen Saltines
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Cannon (The White Stripes song, partial)
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Baby, Please Don’t Go (Joe Williams’ Washboard Blues Singers cover, Interlude)
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Cannon (reprise)
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Blue Orchid (The White Stripes song)
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Underground
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Little Bird (The White Stripes song)
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I’m Slowly Turning Into You (The White Stripes song)
Encore:
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Encore Rave Up
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Steady, as She Goes (The Raconteurs song)
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Archbishop Harold Holmes
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Improvisation
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Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes song)
The Energy
From the moment Jack White took the stage, the energy was electric. The crowd was immediately engaged, hanging on every note and lyric. White’s commanding presence and virtuosic guitar playing captivated the audience, while his band, featuring Dominic Davis on bass, Patrick Keeler on drums, and Bobby Emmett on keys, provided a tight and dynamic rhythm section.
The setlist was a journey through White’s extensive catalog, blending his solo work with songs from The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and his latest project, No Name. Each song was delivered with intensity and passion, showcasing White’s versatility and depth as an artist.
The lighting and visuals complemented the music, with dynamic projections and lighting cues enhancing the mood of each song. The transitions between songs were seamless, maintaining the momentum and keeping the audience engaged throughout the performance.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“Old Scratch Blues”: The opening track set the tone for the evening. The raw energy and bluesy riff immediately drew the crowd in, setting the stage for what was to come.
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“G.O.D. and the Broken Ribs”: The live debut of this track was a highlight of the night. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus had the audience dancing and singing along.
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“Cannon”: The interplay between White’s guitar and Emmett’s keys during this song was mesmerizing. The extended outro, featuring a cover of “Baby, Please Don’t Go,” was a standout moment, showcasing the band’s improvisational skills.
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“Seven Nation Army”: The encore performance of this iconic song had the crowd on their feet, singing along to every word. The song’s anthemic chorus and driving rhythm created an electrifying atmosphere.
The Vibe
The vibe at Massey Hall was one of unity and celebration. Fans of all ages gathered to witness Jack White’s performance, united by their love for his music. The atmosphere was inclusive and welcoming, with fans exchanging smiles and stories throughout the night.
The venue itself was the perfect setting for the concert. The intimate setting allowed for a closer connection between the band and the audience, while the acoustics ensured that every note was heard clearly. The sound quality was exceptional, with each instrument and vocal coming through crisply.
Tiny Quibbles
While the performance was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
Final Thoughts
Jack White’s performance at Massey Hall was a testament to his artistry and connection with his fans. The setlist was a perfect blend of new material and fan favorites, showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. The band’s performance was tight, and the visuals enhanced the overall experience.
The crowd’s energy and enthusiasm were infectious, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity. White’s ability to connect with his audience, both emotionally and energetically, was evident throughout the night.
As the final notes of “Seven Nation Army” echoed through the venue, it was clear that Jack White had once again proven why he is one of the most compelling artists of his generation. His performance was a celebration of his journey, his music, and his fans.