Above: The Highwomen in their first live performance, at the 2019 Newport Folk Festival.

Text and Photos by Julia Ordog

The 60th anniversary of one of music’s most significant festivals kicked off Friday with near perfect weather and unforgettable performances. The day was filled with the artist collaborations that fans have come to expect from Folk Fest, including surprise performances from The Tallest Man on Earth and James Taylor.

Phil Lesh

The Quad Stage, located inside the walls of historic Fort Adams, had a particularly lively vibe with all-out performances from Liz Cooper, Lukas Nelson, and the highly-anticipated, first live performance from The Highwomen. The Highwomen – a supergroup comprised of Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, Amanda Shires, and Natalie Hemby – brought an empowered and empowering energy to the Quad Stage and were met with constant, resounding cheers from the massive crowd.

The day rounded out with Phil Lesh, still rocking at 79, with the Terrapin Family Band, as well as a surprise record release party from Caamp at the intimate Museum Stage.

Saturday features Gregory Alan Isakov, Ruston Kelly, Maggie Rogers, and the surprise Saturday headliner.

Julia Ordog, EGHS Class of 2013, is a photographer. Find out more here.