John McCutcheon Brings His Special Brand of Heart-Expanding Music to the 8th Step at Proctors, Oct. 30
SCHENECTADY – On Oct. 30, The 8th Step welcomes back John McCutcheon to Proctors GE Theatre. Long one of America’s most respected and loved folksingers, McCutcheon is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments.
John McCutcheon’s 43rd (yes, you read that correctly, FORTY-THIRD) album, “Leap!” was released in September. This album was born during the time of Covid, and the lack of travel imposed on him afforded so much reflection and writing that he actually wrote two other albums. He uses his smooth baritone, well crafted tunes, and his knowledge of the world, history, and people to, as he puts it, “change hearts through art.”

McCutcheon’s career spans 50 years and he was called “Folk Music’s Rustic Renaissance Man” by the Washington Post. He has been described as someone who takes his art seriously, but himself, not so much. An apt label, as he has written albums on baseball, children/family themes, traditional Appalachian music, and hammer dulcimer music. I am not much for reciting other’s words and plaudits, but I listened to “Leap!” for myself. His music, the stories, and an occasional twist of phrase with a dash of humor are what hooked me. McCutcheon takes you through time and the lives of others in a way that tugs at your heart and engages your mind in a quest for understanding.
You could always find a comfy chair and a warm blanket, listen to “Leap!”, and then dive more into McCutcheon’s catalog. But what about seeing the Renaissance man in person? Don’t miss the opportunity to see McCutcheon at the 8th Step. Grab family and friends and do some heart changing yourself.
TICKET INFORMATION
The show is Oct. 30, at Proctors GE Theatre, and begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are general admission, are $28-$50, and are available for purchase here. For more information, visit www.8thstep.org.
Comments are closed.