Jason Isbell performs at Sentrum Scene in Oslo on 5 and 6 November – as the first two concerts of the European tour he embarks on in the wake of last year’s album “Weathervanes”.
He set course for Europe on Sunday, and his penultimate post on Instagram before departure was a call to vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.
Discussion
It created discussion in the comments section, since Isbell’s music embraces both camps. Fans supporting Harris questioned whether Trump supporters “even listen to the lyrics”, and were told that “music is for everyone”.
Jason Isbell raised the flag early – and has played at several of Kamala Harris’ election campaign meetings, most recently on 8 October. Then Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff filmed a conversation with Isbell and Michael Stipe from REM
– I grew up in Alabama, around people who used to say that “politicians don’t really care about working people or ordinary Americans”. But as I got more involved in politics, I realized that’s not true, Isbell said.
Isbell concluded by saying that he believed that Kamala Harris “really cares about the American people”, and believed, like Stipe, that artists must also take an active position in the election campaign.
Feel safer
– I feel safer as a creative person with Harris and as a citizen, said Jason Isbell, who pretends to have changed his mind since he spoke to NTB in 2017, the year after Trump was elected president.
– The ones I sing about, they don’t ring true at all, because they don’t think anything is useful anyway. They are absolutely right, “my” people: Nobody cares about them. I understand their fear, he said at the time.
Jason Isbell early on had Bruce Springsteen as his great role model and, like him, writes songs about the American working class, in which he grew up.
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**Interview with Jason Isbell Ahead of His European Tour**
**Editor:** Jason, you’re gearing up for your European tour, starting with two shows in Oslo this November. How are you feeling about hitting the road again?
**Jason Isbell:** I’m really excited! Touring is always an adventure, and Europe has such a vibrant music scene. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fans across the pond and share the music from “Weathervanes.”
**Editor:** Speaking of “Weathervanes,” how has the reception been for this album?
**Jason Isbell:** The response has been incredibly positive. This album feels like a continuation of my journey, both musically and personally. It’s always rewarding to see fans connect with the songs.
**Editor:** You mentioned connecting with fans. How important is that aspect of touring for you?
**Jason Isbell:** It’s everything. The live experience allows me to interact with fans in a way that recordings simply can’t replicate. I love hearing their reactions and sharing stories during shows.
**Editor:** You have a couple of concerts lined up at Sentrum Scene in Oslo. What can fans expect from these performances?
**Jason Isbell:** They can expect an intimate yet powerful show. I aim to create a space where everyone feels connected — through the music and the stories behind the songs.
**Editor:** And do you have any special plans for your time in Europe aside from performing?
**Jason Isbell:** I hope to explore the local culture and maybe find some new inspirations for my music. There’s so much to see and experience, and I always love discovering new things while on tour.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jason! We look forward to seeing you live in Oslo and wish you a successful tour!
**Jason Isbell:** Thank you! I can’t wait to be there!