Celebrating a Legacy: A London Tribute to Mark Lanegan
The Roundhouse in London pulsed with energy as friends, colleagues, and devoted fans gathered to honor what would have been Mark Lanegan’s 60th birthday. The former Screaming Trees frontman, a gravelly-voiced poet whose raw intensity left an indelible mark on music, tragically passed away in 2022 at the age of 57. “Mark Lanegan – A Celebration,” a tribute concert featuring an extraordinary lineup of artists, was a poignant and powerful testament to Lanegan’s enduring influence.
A Star-Studded Lineup Pays Tribute
The evening was a veritable who’s who of alternative rock, showcasing the breadth and depth of Lanegan’s impact. Performances from Queens of the Stone Age members Josh Homme and Troy Van Leeuwen, both frequent collaborators with Lanegan, injected the night with a raw, electrifying energy. Depeche Mode’s Dave Gahan brought his signature intensity to several Lanegan tracks, while the Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde and the Kills’ Allison Mosshart added their own unique and powerful voices to the proceedings. Afghan Whigs’ Greg Dulli, who collaborated with Lanegan as the Gutter Twins, offered a haunting performance of their song “The Stations,” a track that perfectly captured the melancholic beauty of Lanegan’s artistry.
Soundscapes of Power and Emotion
Throughout the night, the stage pulsed with an emotional intensity that reflected the depth of Lanegan’s influence. Dulli and the Soulsavers, his backing band, turned “The Stations,” Woven from the Gutter Twins’ sole studio album, *Saturnalia* (2008), into a somber elegy. Bobby Gillespie’s rendition of Screaming Trees’ 1996 song “Sworn and Broken” vibrated with raw power, while Dave Gahan’s selections, including Lanegan’s 1994 solo track “Kingdoms of Rain” and 2004’s “Hit the City,” showcased the singer’s ability to infuse Lanegan’s work with his own distinctive style.
Homme’s performance of Lanegan’s 1994 track “Carnival” was a highlight of the evening, highlighting the rawness and emotional depth that Lanegan brought to his songwriting. Each performance, whether a Vander Leeuwen-assisted spoken word piece weaving traces of Lanegan’s most poignant lyrics throughout the night, a solo acoustic performance, or a full-blown set by a band like the Soulsavers, was a unique tribute to Lanegan’s musical legacy.
A Night to Remember
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that “Mark Lanegan – A Celebration” was more than just a concert. It was a communal mourning and a joyous celebration of a life lived with passion and integrity. The performances were not mere imitations; they were passionate tributes that captured the essence of Lanegan’s artistry and his enduring influence on music.
The tribute concert served as a powerful reminder of Lanegan’s musical contributions and the impact he had on countless artists and fans. “Mark Lanegan – A Celebration” was a night of powerful emotions, musical brilliance, and above all, a testament to the enduring legacy of a truly unique artist.
What were some specific performances that the guest enjoyed?
## Interview with a Alex Reed at the Mark Lanegan Tribute Concert
**Interviewer:** Welcome! Can you tell us about the atmosphere at the Mark Lanegan tribute concert last night?
**Alex Reed:** It was truly electric. The Roundhouse was buzzing with energy even before the music started. You could feel the love and respect for Mark from everyone there, from longtime fans to fellow musicians. It was a beautiful way to celebrate his life and music. [[1](https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/mark-lanegan-tribute-concert-josh-homme-dave-gahan-chrissie-hynde-london-1235111938/)]
**Interviewer:** What were some of the highlights of the show for you?
**Alex Reed:** Oh wow, there were so many! Seeing Josh Homme and Troy Van Leeuwen from Queens of the Stone Age perform was incredible. They really brought that raw energy that Mark was known for. But honestly, each performer brought something special. Dave Gahan’s intensity, Chrissie Hynde’s powerful vocals, Allison Mosshart’s raw emotion… it was a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the night. And Greg Dulli’s performance of “The Stations” was just heartbreaking, truly moving. It perfectly captured Mark’s melancholic side.
**Interviewer:** What do you think Mark would have thought of the tribute?
**Alex Reed:** I think he would have been humbled and honored. He was always so private and understated, but I think he would have appreciated seeing so many people come together to celebrate his music. The concert was a testament to the impact he had on so many lives, both musically and personally.
