Live ReviewsMusic

Melissa Etheridge and Jewel Shine on a Saturday Night at Skyla

Duo shares headlining duties on the last weekend of summer

Melissa Etheridge onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024
Melissa Etheridge onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024. (Photo by Jeff Hahne)

I have a confession to make: Despite the fact that Melissa Etheridge is 63 years old and has been performing music live since 1986, somehow I had never seen her play a show before Saturday night’s gig at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre.

I’ve heard plenty of her music over the years, but for some reason our paths never crossed. It’s a shame, because Etheridge’s performance was that of a seasoned veteran who knew when to light up the night with some blistering guitar riffs and when to let her vocals shine.

Jewel onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024. (Photo by Jeff Hahne)

Billed as a co-headlining show, Etheridge split the night with soulful folk singer/songwriter Jewel, who opened on Saturday. Each singer performed for roughly 80 minutes, setting the perfect backdrop for a late summer/early fall evening.

Jewel’s vocals sounded as strong as ever as she truly appeared to be having a good time throughout the set. It’s hard not to smile when you have thousands of people singing your lyrics back to you on nearly every song.

Melissa Etheridge onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024. (Photo by Jeff Hahne)

The singer, who broke through with hit singles like “Who Will Save Your Soul” and “You Were Meant For Me” from her 1995 debut Pieces of Me, performed plenty of hits a mix of newer material. Though the last few times in town she was an opening act, this time she showcased a broader range of music that fans adored.

Etheridge will continue touring with Jewel through Oct. 5 before striking out to play some solo shows.

Melissa Etheridge setlist
Must Be Crazy
If I Wanted To
Don’t You Need
I Want to Come Over
Nowhere to Go
Silent Legacy
Chrome Plated Heart
A Burning Woman
Come to My Window
Bring Me Some Water
I’m the Only One
Like the Way I Do

Jewel onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024.
Jewel onstage at Skyla Amphitheatre on Sept. 21, 2024. (Photo by Jeff Hahne)

Be sure to check out Queen City Nerve’s Soundwave, Charlotte’s most comprehensive live music listing, so you don’t miss out on any shows or concerts coming up. And hell, if you’re looking for something else to do, you can check out our events page as well, which runs the gamut of things to do in Charlotte. You don’t ever have to be bored again. You can check out more of Jeff’s pics and live reviews here.


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