Tom Rush

Tom Rush Concert & Tour Photos

Fan Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

GEG1

Tom was great! His voice remains strong and his range is amazing for any age, much less 77. He's also very funny, and his musicianship remains at a high level! And the Birchmere is flat out the best music venue! Tom is touring with 32-year old pianist and guitarist/singer songwriter Matt Nakoa. This guy is a star! Got the voice, technical skill, and looks to draw a crowd! And the two together is an evening you should not miss!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Novafann

Tom Rush sang some of his songs, old and new, showing why he is one of the master song writers of his generation. The audience, most of who were his age, and probably fans for decades, lapped up every note. He also had a talented newcomer, Matt Nokoa, accompanying him on piano and keyboard, and doing some solo numbers.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Stringbag

Reminded Tom Rush that I had seen him in '70 at the Cellar Door in DC. He replied that "No... it had to be my father." We all have gotten older but the voice and story telling remains.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Rootsmusiclover

Still a great performer and musician. Terrific personality and wit.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Bill45454

Tom Rush has been singing and entertaining audiences since his college days in the early 60's in Boston. I first heard him then at Club 47 in Cambridge in 1963. He has always delivered his songs and those of other terrific song writers, like Joni Mitchell , Jackson Brown and James Taylor, prior the their rise to fame, in a style and voice that is his own distinctive brand, I was especially pleased to hear him again at the Birchmere last night when he delivered many of his older songs along with those from his newest CD - "What I Know." He is still a terrific entertainer with humorous stories and commentary on his music and the people and places he has seen while entertaining over the past 50 years. I hope he will continue to visit and perform here in the Washington D.C. area so new generations of savvy youth might learn more about style and grace from an original representative of the 60's era folk music scene.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

oldtowner

Tom Rush is the ultimate show man! Very funny monologue and stories as well as great guitar playing and singing. The audience was very in to the performance. Highly recommend.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

zakrosian

Tom Rush is a rare combination of great musician and even greater story teller. His ear for others' ( such as Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and more recently, Eliza Gilkyson ) songs has been impeccable over the past several decades, and his own songs are their equals. But what makes his show memorable is the stories between songs. Rush is, quite simply, one of the funniest performers of any type in the country today. He is far wittier than any comedian you'll see on Comedy Central, and, most remarkably, his humor is suitable for all ages. Unlike some musicians whose spiel leads to a silent "shut up and sing" attitude in the audience, one wishes his show lasted longer, and included more of his relfections on aging, raising kids, and quirky neighbors.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

SmallVenueFanatic

Tom Rush puts on an excellent show. The rating of 4 stars is not maxed out only to avoid hyperbole. The show lasts a little over two hours with a ten minute intermission. Mr. Rush puts on a one man all acoustic show. On the night I saw him, Tom Paxton joined him on stage for a quick duet and then a solo. His music and lyrics are very good; I guess there is a reason he has been around 40+ years. His humor was also unexpectedly VERY GOOD.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

mschannon

I've been following Tom Rush for 35+ years, from small rooms in New Haven, CT. to Symphony Hall in Boston to the Birchmere. His astonishing guitar work supports a resonant baritone that was simply made for ballads. In his latest album, which he featured, he's turned away (thankfully) from the cowboy music and returned to what he does best--songs that tell a story that take you to special places. Age may have caused some creaks in the voice but it's the Tom Rush I've loved all these years: funny, intelligent, a great performer, and still the best folk singer around.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

DCMaid

When I hear Tom Rush perform I just wish it would never end. He is a special American icon! His humor is delightful and his powerful voice and command of the guitar continues to be stunning. His recent album with the Nashville session band should win more awards -- it is a very special work of art. On stage he doesn't miss a beat with his traditional solo presence -- singing his beautiful new songs as well as other favorites -- just Tom. Seeing Tom Paxton with him was also a super special treat.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 13, 2010

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

spin

Great place and great show we enjoyed the entire experience.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

LMCAD

The Tom Rush concert was great, the venue was intimate and very personal,You felt like you were sitting in a large livingroom with friends, the wine and snack bar was wonderful, and having Tom sign autographs during intermission, in such a quiet atmosphere was lovely

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

ejs53726

From the beginning of the concert it felt like we were old friends and had known each other forever. He needs to come around here more often. Nice intimate venue, We hated to leave.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

marbil

Saw Tom just 6 months ago and was concerned we might see the same thing. Not so; new material, familiar songs, great instrumentals (although he is rushing 'Panama Limited' too much, which detracts from hitting crisp notes). Altogether an extremely satisfying experience.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

OrangeCountyGuy

Wonderful evening. Tom Rush was very good; great voice, great guitar, sparkling personality. Bethel Woods is a top notch venue.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RBandTEJ

Tom Rush was personable, funny and a great performer. You could clearly understand every word of his songs and the gallery at Bethel Woods was a perfect forum. The acoustics were great - the room was large, but had an intimate feeling. It's the perfect forum for individual performers.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fogey

Tom Rush is as captivating as ever. His voice seems even deeper and more resonant now, and his mastery of his various guitars and playing styles never ceases to amaze me. Unlike most musicians, he has a wonderfully droll sense of humor that makes an evening with Tom Rush a sheer delight. Too bad his audience is aging along with him. Younger concert goers would get a lot from his performances if they'd just go to see him.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

aprilgirl1951

Tom was warmed up by Bob Patterson, who reallyis a true florida musician in the Linage of Gamble Rogers. Tom 's performance was very good, saddly it was over too soon.I could have listened to him for hours..

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Queenone

Such a charming personality...and good looking, too! I heard a song by Tom Rush on the radio (One Good Man) and had to check him out. I was lucky enough to find a concert near me and grabbed up the tickets. I would definately recommend him. A very talented singer, song writer and guitar genius. He should play at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival!

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

tfelg

Tom Rush, at 71 years of age, shows no sign of slowing down. His voice is as good as ever and his guitar skills remain enviable. The sets included a nice mix of old and new material, with Tom's humorous quips and stories generously included. He graciously mixed with his fans, signed CD's and posed for pictures during the intermission. I will fondly remember the Evening with Tom Rush.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Thu, Jan 10, 2013

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

N739PA

Excellent performance. Nice small area for all to sit and enjoy the show. There were no bad seats so everyone enjoyed the performance.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RC44

Tom Rush's skill as a songwriter, guitarist, and singer are outstanding, and he hasn't lost his skills. The question is why isn't he more of a household name. Perhaps because he doesn't try to create an image but just relates to the audience. But you don't have to be a diehard fan like me to appreciate his songs, his wit, and his warmth. Don't miss him if you have a chance.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Awsome venue. Great concert. Acustics were amazing.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Klaatu1954

Most enjoyable. My only complaint was the periodic bright lights pointed into the eyes of the audience. Not sure what the point of that was. I'd think that with one guy on the stage who stayed in the same spot, the lights could have left alone.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Arushrusher

I've seen Tom five times, going back to the Main Point in PhillyIn 1968; the first is always special, but this time was the most fun. Tom Always showed flashes of humor, but this time he not only looked like Mark Twain, he matched his wit with his comments befor, during and after his upbeat selections. I had more fun at this concert than the other four. As usual, his playing was wonderful and especially on his Galveston Flood encore. Wild. Ive always loved his open tuning and his work on "No Regrets" showed he has lost none of his technique. Lastly, his beautiful rendition of "The Child's Song" came close to moving me to tears. Amen, it was a great night. Come back soon. I,ll be there.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

JimTom

Totally brilliant! Have been following Tom since stationed in Massachusetts in the early 60's. He only gets better with age. If you want to get away from the idiocy that is becoming life in these United States these days and just relax and enjoy . . . go see Tom Rush!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

rh0nda

It was a great show. Tom Rush is a very talented guy. Laughed, cried, sang. And...oh too bad he's married. One of those guys who looks better with age!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

melvinamm

You can tell a lot of work goes into making his performance seem casual, spontaneous and relaxed. His guitar playing improves every year and his voice has not lost a bit. In an era when comedians seem to go primarily for smut and shock, it is nice to hear someone who is truly funny without going for the lowest forms of humor. After the show Mr. Rush was autographing CDs and DVDs and gave off the same warm, friendly and genuinely engaged persona he projects on stage. His shows are as delightful now as they were in the 60's and 70's when he would perform at big weekends at my college.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Saiph

A very engaging performer that is as current now as he was when I first heard him on Boston's WBZ radio in the mid 60's. Even after 50 years, his fabulous guitarmanship and vocals were captivating. Rush has strong rapport with the packed audience, weaving stories into his performance after every song. And what a suprise to have Tom Paxton come out and do a song with him, and then two vocals on his own. Wow!!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Judithad

The Birchmere is always fun, and Tom Rush is so much more than a talented musician; his humor and timing with the banter and stories makes for a truly fun evening. On the downside, the Birchmere menu has changed, prices have increased, and some things removed that I liked. They used to have large pitchers of free water on each table and now only sell bottled water for $2.00.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2012

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Lefthanded

Seeing Tom Rush in person was like going to Comedy Central AND hearing your favorite folk singer. His banter with the audience was priceless--he is truly a very funny guy when he wants to be. But his music was still very poignant, and as a musician (there was no band or other backup) he is superb on the acoustic guitar--a great solo artist. Amazing that his age doesn't show in his voice, like it does for some of his peers. Plus the variety of his songs made everything seem fresh--a great mix of old and new.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

NewBrunette

I've loved Tom Rush's work for almost 40 years. If you know any interpreter of singer-songwriter ballads who's been as good as he for half as long, please let me know. Oddly enough, this was my first Tom Rush concert -- I've heard he WAS in town all too often over the years, a day or a week or a month too late. Never mind. If you enjoy acoustic music at all, I highly recommend Tom Rush any time you can get to one of his shows. He does a fine mix of old favorites and newer material, he's quite funny, and still sings and plays splendidly.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

doctored5

We saw Tom Rush at the Birchmere last weekend. Tom Rush goes back to the 1960s and performed many of his and others (such as Joni Mitchell's) classic songs, as well as some newer material. His vocal range is limited (it probably was never great) but he carries off the songs well. His guitar playing is good, but his banter and stories are what makes his show really memorable.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

DCMaid

Tom Rush creates magical moments one never forgets. His voice is stronger and more resonant than ever and the sounds of his guitar are iconic!!! I've seen him as often as possible since the recent album and never ceased to be mesmerized. His stage presence, bantor and wry sense of humor -- can't be beaten.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Jglenn

Tom Rush's performance Saturday night at the Birchmere was excellent. His selection of songs, humor and background information kept the audience relaxed, entertained and impressed. As the years roll on Mr. Rush continues to sustain his voice and guitar skills. He played favorites and relatively new songs. His "mature" humor seemed to connect with a very mature audience.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Tom Rush is a master of story telling. Reminds me of Mark Twain.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Tom Rush always puts on a great show. He is worth every penny. We drove three hours because he's well worth it.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Poriverat

This was a great performance. Tom combined new with old songs so we got a flavor for the "old dog" and his new tricks. The instrumentals in many of his songs highlighted what a great guitar muscian he really is - he uses music to help tell his stories and put you in another place.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

NEEX

SOME OF MY BEST MEMORIES OF GOING TO COLLEGE IN BOSTON INCLUDE SEEING TOM RUSH IN CONCERT I LOVE SEEING HIM NOW - HIS ROCKPORT SUNDAY PERFORMANCE IS BETTER THAN EVER!!!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

TNBDC

OK, so it did take him 35 years to make a new album. Doesn't matter. Great guy, great voice, great songs, and of course great venue. What's not to like?

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 26, 2011

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

CJGMax

Thoroughly enjoyed the show. Tom performed solo, was in great voice. Great guitar playing, great song choices nice mix of classics including The Circle Game, Who Do You Love, Drivin' Wheel, Merrimac County, and Child's Song; wonderful storytelling on Panama Limited. Excellent newer songs, including a truly topical and funny song about not remembering things. I'd forgotten how funny he is!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Judithad

Tom is lots of laughs with some really great music thrown in. The Birchmere is a venue perfect for his type of show, and never disappoints.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

CrackedAces

This show was so good, if Tom were to come back next week I would be there. The guest apperance of Tom Paxton was a nice treat as well. Tom Rush is a great singer, guitarist, and humorist. Very delightful evening. Made big points with my wife for this date.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Tom Rush still has it after all these years. The venue was perfect for his style of performance and some of his stories were unforgettable. I highly recommend you check out Tom Rush.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

tlcrav

Captivated the audience. Rush is a great storyteller and kept the audience spellbound. His voice and guitar picking hasn't faded with age. An excellent concert and a wonderful time. Tom Paxton visited and sang a song which was a special bonus!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Finn2009

My wife and I both enjoyed the event. His voice and music was great and he had some great new material to play. Well worth the money.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Gal255

Excellent performance by Tom Rush. He opened and invited Tom Paxton to join him for two or three sets. Tom Paxton did one solo, too. The two old friends enjoyed performing together and the audience enjoyed them as well. Tom Rush's performance was updated and peppy. Tom did several of his newer songs, like "What I know" and "River Song"...as well as "Circle Game" and "Child's Song"... invited everyone to join in on "Oh What A Mighty Storm". At curtain call the crowd wanted more and kept calling out the names of more songs. I, too, would loved to have heard Tom Rush do "What Only An Old Lover Knows" and "East of Eden" and songs from his "Work-In-Progress" tape. Can't get them all into one evening! Tom stayed afterward to talk to fans and sign autographs.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

DCMaid

Incredibly strong and moving vocals and guitar never ceases to amaze. I bring new people every year and the result is always new converts. He's becoming even a more amazing story teller which of course he's always been. Smithsonian -- it's time to bring him back. No finer folk blues singer on the planet in my book.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

BostonFollower

Tom Rush continues to deliver a wonderfully engaging performance despite having done this for over 50 years. His storytelling ability, excellent guitar playing, and selection of wonderful songs made the evening a wonderful experience.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

1717Fan

Tom always is a good performance. His voice is mellow and sweeps you away. Always a good night out. Birchmere is a great venue.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Mar 24, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

mommamig

Have been a follower of Tom Rush for 48 years - still as awesome as ever. Matt Nakoa is absolutely amazing - move over Josh Grobin!!!!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

fmichael

An unforgettable evening when the same performer elicits both a belly laugh and tears

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

CBogle

For somebody that has been performing for over 50 years, he is still amazing. The mix of material was great, he handles an audience with great ease, interjecting wry humor and stories along the way. I highly recommend that you catch a Tom Rush concert...... there's something entertaining for everyone!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Show was outstanding. I've seen Tom Rush about (5) times and everyone has been a delight. His music brings back many memories and I hope to see him at least a few more times.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Ethylina

A truly enjoyable evening. Hearing Tom's classics along with newer material was like visiting an old friend.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Amesburyites

I have been a fan of Tom for decades and have all of his recordings, some on LP and all on CD, as well as his DVDs. His delivery is soulful, poignant and delightfully humorous... all at the right times! I never tire of the stories he tells. I am so pleased that we now live in an area where Tom performs often and will be in the audience for many concerts in the future! If Dylan and Arlo and even Joanie were performing nearby it would be Tom's concert that I would attend!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

4Apex

I have been following Tom Rush for over 50 years, he's as good today as he was in 1963 when I was a student at Northeastern.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

GeorgeMcCartney

First saw Tom Rush at the Club 47 in 1964... he moved me then and he moved me again this time. His voice is strong and full, his virtuoso guitar playing continues to enhance his rich catalogue of classic and new songs, and his banter, his lifetimes of stories creates an intimacy with his audience that brings us all into his melodious world of folk history. At 75 he is still a force of nature!

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Shine1

A friend and I drive 100 miles to hear Tom. He gives a great show.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Geothermal

Tom Rush's musical magic was enhanced by Matt Nakoa's keyboard and singing. One can only hope for many more such wonderful collaborations.

Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - Sat, Apr 2, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Ngal

Tom Rush has only gotten better with age and once again, did not disappoint. Great mix of old songs and new, and as always, he connects with his audience from the moment he comes on stage. So glad he is still touring, as we never tire of seeing him. He was accompanied by the fabulously talented Matt Nakoa, and a guest appearance by Tom Paxton made for just a great evening from start to finish.