The Late Show brought an end to its taping in Chicago, in conjunction with the 2024 Democratic National Convention, in true Windy City fashion by inviting two of beloved Chicagoians to perform: Mavis Staples and Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy.
Delivering a spirited rendition of The Staple Singers’ song, “Freedom Highway” — which was originally recorded in Chicago nearly 60 years ago — Staples and Tweedy brought passion to The Late Night stage, as their backing band provided a tremolo-washed, ‘60s-inspired arrangement. Moving to the groove, Staples particularly shined, singing the lines “March for freedom’s highway/ March each and every day/ Made up my mind and I won’t turn around” with a sense of hard-earned experience.
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Watch Staples’ and Tweedy’s performance of “Freedom Highway” below.
Staples is now 85, but going strong. This summer, she released her latest single, “Worthy,” a soulful track with an inventive, funky sound. Up next, she’s booked for a number of live performances, including stops in Massachusetts, New Mexico, and California. Get tickets here.
As for Tweedy, he’ll be hitting the road for a solo tour this fall, stopping in Chicago, Omaha, Columbus, and more cities before wrapping with a three-night run in Menlo Park, California, this October. Get tickets here.
This past June, Wilco released a new EP, Hot Sun Cool Shroud.