The Black Crowes took the stage at Boston Calling with the kind of swagger and soul that only they can command. This was one of those shows where you immediately felt that classic rock wasn’t just surviving—it was thriving in the hands of a band that has lived through its highs and lows and come out swinging. Walking into the Harvard Athletic Complex, the energy was already palpable, but as soon as the first chords of “No Speak No Slave” rang out, it became clear that we were in for a night of pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll. The band sounded tight, full of grit, groove, and that unmistakable Southern blues-infused tone that has always set them apart.
Opening with “No Speak No Slave” was a perfect choice, immediately setting a defiant, raw tone for the evening. The song’s heavy riff and rich, jangly guitars felt massive in the open-air setting, with the rhythm section locking in flawlessly. It was one of those openings where you instantly feel the chemistry of the band—Chris Robinson’s vocals were strong and confident, carrying the story of the song with the kind of swagger that only he seems capable of. The audience was drawn in from the first note, and the energy only ramped up from there. The Black Crowes know how to open a set: no hesitation, no filler, just pure rock momentum.
“Rats and Clowns” followed, and the band didn’t let up. The groove was immediate, and it had that slightly gritty, gritty Southern soul that makes the Crowes’ catalog feel so alive even decades after the songs were written. The guitars danced around each other, filling the stage with texture and dynamics, while the rhythm section kept the energy propulsive without being overbearing. Chris’s vocals carried a rough-edged charm that perfectly fit the slightly subversive tone of the song, while Rich Robinson’s guitar work was both melodic and soulful, adding layers of nuance that only a band with years of chemistry could achieve.
By the time they hit “Twice as Hard,” the crowd was fully engaged. This song has always been a staple of their live shows, and in Boston, it felt just as urgent as it did in the early ‘90s. The driving rhythm, catchy chorus, and guitar interplay had people singing along and nodding in time. The Black Crowes’ ability to make a song feel fresh and vital after decades of performing it is part of what makes their live shows so compelling. There’s no sense of going through the motions; every note feels alive, every lyric has weight.
“Sting Me” injected a little playful energy into the mix. The rhythm was bouncy and funky, giving the band space to stretch out musically. Chris’s vocals were cheeky and commanding, effortlessly moving between grit and melody. It’s a song that could feel like a throwback on paper, but live, it’s as vibrant and immediate as anything new. The guitars were infectious, trading licks and riffs that kept the audience hooked. You could see the joy on the band’s faces as they played; it’s clear they’re not just performing these songs—they’re reveling in them.
“Seeing Things” was a more contemplative moment, a chance for the band to showcase their dynamic range. The song’s bluesy undertones and soulful groove created a contrast to the more driving rock numbers earlier in the set. Chris’s voice carried the melancholic story beautifully, full of texture and emotion. The guitars, especially Rich Robinson’s, were expressive and tasteful, weaving in and out of the vocals without ever overpowering them. It was a reminder that The Black Crowes’ live shows are about more than just volume—they’re about mood, emotion, and narrative.
The set continued to build with “Soul Singing,” which felt like a bridge between the introspective and the anthemic. The song’s rhythmic groove got the crowd moving, with layers of guitar, organ, and percussion creating a rich, full sound. The interplay between the band members was effortless, a reflection of years on the road and deep musical understanding. By now, the audience was fully invested, singing along to choruses and soaking in the live energy that only a band like The Black Crowes can generate.
Of course, any Black Crowes show has to include “Hard to Handle,” and this Otis Redding cover was delivered with maximum impact. The band turned it into a full-blown celebration, with Chris’s vocals brimming with soul and swagger. The horns-like punch of the guitars and the driving rhythm made it impossible not to move along, and the audience responded in kind, cheering, clapping, and singing every word. It was a highlight of the night—a perfect example of how the band can take a classic song and make it unmistakably their own while still honoring the original.
“Thorn in My Pride” slowed things down just enough to create tension and highlight the band’s blues roots. The song’s groove was deep and resonant, with Rich’s guitar adding mournful fills that danced around the rhythm section. Chris’s voice carried a raw, emotive edge that made the lyrics hit even harder live. It was a song that reminded everyone of the emotional depth the Crowes bring to their performances—a reminder that their catalog isn’t just about rock riffs and catchy hooks, but about feeling, storytelling, and soul.
“Wanting and Waiting” reintroduced the raw rock energy with a heavy, crunchy guitar riff that immediately grabbed attention. The song felt urgent and alive, perfectly suited for the outdoor festival environment. The audience responded energetically, fists pumping and voices raised in unison. The way the band builds tension and releases it in songs like this is a hallmark of their live shows—every note, every pause, every crescendo is deliberate, keeping the audience engaged and on edge. The interplay between Chris and Rich Robinson’s guitars, with the rhythm section holding everything together, was impeccable.
Closing the set with “Remedy” was a masterstroke. The song has always been a crowd favorite, and in Boston, it served as the perfect finale. Its anthemic quality, driving rhythm, and infectious chorus left the audience in a state of exhilaration. The guitars soared, the rhythm section held tight, and Chris delivered the vocals with his signature mix of grit, soul, and melody. The final chords rang out, leaving the crowd cheering and the stage buzzing with energy. It was a fitting end to a set that had everything: rock swagger, bluesy depth, soulful energy, and a palpable connection between band and audience.
What stood out most about the Black Crowes’ performance at Boston Calling was how effortless it all felt, despite the technical and emotional complexity of the set. Every song was executed with precision but still carried the raw, spontaneous energy that makes live music so compelling. The band clearly enjoys being on stage together, and that joy is infectious. From the tight rhythm section to the melodic and expressive guitar work, to Chris’s commanding vocals, every element of the show worked in harmony. The pacing of the set, alternating between driving rockers and soulful grooves, kept the audience engaged from start to finish.
The Black Crowes also showed their versatility, moving seamlessly between styles and moods. They could hit hard with rock riffs, delve into bluesy grooves, or stretch out musically while maintaining cohesion. The dynamics of their performance—when to push, when to pull back, when to let the audience sing along—demonstrated a mastery of live showmanship that few bands achieve. Even songs that might feel familiar from countless recordings were imbued with a sense of immediacy and freshness, reminding everyone why this band has endured for decades.
Another highlight was the band’s connection with the audience. Chris Robinson’s banter was minimal but effective, allowing the music to speak while occasionally offering insight or engaging directly with the crowd. The audience fed off the energy of the band, creating a feedback loop of excitement and intensity. From the opening notes of “No Speak No Slave” to the final chords of “Remedy,” there was a sense that both band and audience were sharing an experience, not just performing or spectating. That connection is one of the hallmarks of a great live show, and the Black Crowes delivered it effortlessly.
Sonically, the performance was outstanding. The mix at the Harvard Athletic Complex allowed every instrument to be heard clearly, from the depth of the bass and drums to the nuances of the guitars and vocals. The band’s natural dynamics were preserved, making loud moments hit with power and softer moments resonate with intimacy. Outdoor festivals can be tricky for sound, but the Black Crowes’ setup and delivery ensured that the music translated perfectly to the audience. The clarity of the performance, combined with the energy and emotional intensity, made for a concert that felt both massive and personal at the same time.
In terms of pacing, the setlist was masterfully constructed. Opening with “No Speak No Slave” and moving through high-energy tracks like “Twice as Hard” and “Sting Me,” the band established momentum before giving the audience a chance to breathe with “Seeing Things” and “Soul Singing.” They then built back up with “Hard to Handle” and “Thorn in My Pride,” leading into the final crescendo of “Wanting and Waiting” and “Remedy.” The ebb and flow of the set maintained audience engagement and allowed the band to showcase their full range of musicality. Each transition felt natural, creating a cohesive musical journey rather than just a sequence of songs.
The Black Crowes’ ability to make every song feel alive is one of their greatest strengths. Songs that have been performed hundreds of times still carried an edge, a sense of discovery, and a raw energy that kept the audience hooked. The combination of skill, experience, and spontaneity made this performance feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, even for fans who have seen the band before. The nuance in guitar interplay, the subtle variations in vocals, and the dynamic rhythm section all contributed to a sense of unpredictability and excitement that kept everyone on their toes.
By the time the show wrapped, it was clear that the Black Crowes had delivered a performance that was equal parts celebration and masterclass. They reminded the audience why their music has endured and why their live shows are still talked about decades after their initial heyday. Every member of the band contributed to the overall energy and cohesion, from the powerhouse vocals to the intricate guitar work to the tight rhythm section. The show was a testament to their skill, longevity, and understanding of what makes live rock music compelling.
The Black Crowes’ Boston Calling performance was more than just a concert—it was a statement. It showed that a band with a long career can still command attention, deliver precision, and connect with audiences on a visceral level. The combination of classic hits and deeper cuts, played with energy, skill, and emotional depth, created a concert experience that felt both timeless and immediate. The audience left buzzing, energized, and reminded of the power of live music when executed by a band that truly knows how to rock.
Setlist:
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No Speak No Slave
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Rats and Clowns
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Twice as Hard
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Sting Me
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Seeing Things
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Soul Singing
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Hard to Handle (Otis Redding cover)
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Thorn in My Pride
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Wanting and Waiting
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Remedy
The Black Crowes at Boston Calling 2025 reaffirmed why they remain one of the most compelling live acts in rock music. They brought a perfect blend of grit, soul, and musicianship that reminded everyone in attendance that great rock ‘n’ roll isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about connection, energy, and authenticity. The night was a triumph from start to finish, a celebration of a band that knows how to deliver every note, every riff, and every lyric with precision, passion, and rock ‘n’ roll heart.