By Dave Read, Sept. 2, 2026 performance – The Tedeschi Trucks Band and Lukas Nelson (with band) are among the very best examples of American popular music, springing from the same roots as produced jazz, blues, rock ‘n roll and myriad sub-genres of musical expression. When they perform in the Koussevitzky Music Shed at Tanglewood, the popular music audience is invited to witness the same world-class talent and musicianship and the classical music audience enjoys with the Boston Symphony performs there.
Besides being remarkable for their undeniable brilliance as collaborating musicians, Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks seem remarkable also for being a brilliantly married couple. Their regard for each other is obvious to any observer; they demonstrate that even happy, successful people can play the blues! Two particularly moving moments from tonight’s show were Ms. Tedeschi’s moving rendition of Wildflowers by the late Dolly Parton, with backup vocalist Alecia Chakour and Gabe Dixon on keyboards, plus a tour de force mashup by Mr. Trucks of Ohio, by Neil Young and Machine Gun, by Jimi Hendrix.
In so doing, they align themselves with the pro-love, pro-literacy, pro-peace faction of the American populace without needing to name the mob mentality that presently menaces America.
Nor was Lukas Nelson anything but a superb singer and guitar player, every bit the son of his father Willie. Although the old man’s voice is a unique human treasure, you will be reminded of it when you listen to Lukas, who is a chip off the old block, even if he plays an unbandaged guitar!
Resources for visitors to the Berkshires
Pages that may help you plan your visits to the Berkshires.