WHAT IS HE DOING?

In 1992, John Wesley Harding went on tour in support of his Sire/Reprise album “Why We Fight”, headlining a bill that featured Barenaked Ladies. These were the halcyon days when record labels helped musicians defray the costs of touring with “tour support”. In such a heady and extravagant atmosphere, longtime friendships were forged, beautiful music made, and everyone ended up unrecouped.

Despite all that, Wes claims that the 1992 tour was the highlight of her career, and, in honour of this vintage pairing, like two fine wines you’ve poured into the same glass by mistake, he is prepared to assume the mantle of John Wesley Harding once more.

“Surprise” guests will help to paint the picture more fully.

WHO IS HE?

Wesley Stace AKA John Wesley Harding was born in Hastings, East Sussex in 1965. He released many albums under the name John Wesley Harding, before switching back to his birth name for more recent recordings, including 2021’s Late Style. He has recorded duets with, among others, Bruce Springsteen, Lou Reed, and Rosanne Cash. Stace has published four novels, including the international bestseller Misfortune, and recently co-wrote Mark Morris’ memoir Out Loud. He also created Cabinet of Wonders, a monthly show that plays at New York City’s City Winery, and which The New Yorker called “one of the finest nights of entertainment this city has to offer.” He has taught at Princeton, Swarthmore and Fairleigh-Dickinson, and writes regularly for the Times Literary Supplement and the Wall Street Journal. He lives in Philadelphia.