In Concert: Lyle Lovett

Lyle Lovett and His Small Large Band Lied Center in Lawrence, Kansas November 12, 2026

Members: Lyle Lovett (vocals, guitar) Leland Sklar (bass) Russ Kunkel (drums) Jeff White (guitar, vocals) James Harrah (guitar) Jim Cox (piano) Amy Keys (backing vocals) Mace Hibbard (saxophone) Review: It had been over 20 years since I’d seen Lyle in concert (see 10/19/2003). That tour was in support of his then-latest album My Baby Don’t Tolerate while this show wasn’t supporting any particular album. He did, however, play four songs from his most recent album, 2022’s 12th of June. In fact, the highlight of the show for me was Lyle’s performance of that album’s title track. It’s a gorgeous song that brilliantly captures the thrill of becoming a parent. The show offered plenty of gems, though. Lyle’s second and third albums (Pontiac, Lyle Lovett and His Large Band) were the ones that made me a fan so I was overjoyed to hear him play “She’s No Lady,” “Here I Am,” “L.A. County,” and “Nobody Knows Me.” The call and response between the backup singer (Amy Keys) and the saxophonist (Mace Hibbard) on “She’s No Lady” was another show highlight. Throughout the show, Lyle generously gave up the spotlight to his crack band and their talent for jazz improv. “I’ve Been to Memphis” offered up the best showcase of the band’s abilities with multiple solos for the band members, including some astonishing piano playing from Jim Cox. Vocally, Lyle has definitely lost a step. He was raspy and didn’t have much power in his voice. However, he still delivered. If he ever decides to give up singing, he could always have a second career as a storyteller/stand-up comedian. He unspooled several lengthy commentaries on being a parent and visiting his kids’ school and even getting his guitarist (Jeff White) in on some reminiscing about his days in marching band. For those that whine about wanting their performers to just perform, you need to see Lyle. His comical insights would win you over. Click here to see other concerts I’ve attended. The Set List: 1. Rollin’ By 7 2. I Will Rise Up 9 3. The Blues Walk 3 4. Stand by Your Man 3 5. Here I Am 3 6. Pants Is Overrated 12 7. It’s a Naked Party (new song) 8. Cowboy Man 1 9. Her Loving Man (The Queen of Know) 12 10. Let’s Get Together (Wilbert Harrison cover) 11. Blue Trail of Sorrow (guitarist on vocals) 12. You Were Always There 8 13. She’s No Lady 2 14. L.A. County 2 15. Nobody Told Me 3 16. North Dakota 4 17. I’ve Been to Memphis 4 18. Are We Dancing 12 19. 12th of June 12 20. If I Had a Boat 2 21. My Baby Don’t Tolerate (encore) 8 Discography: 1 Lyle Lovett (1986) 2 Pontiac (1987) 3 Lyle Lovett and His Large Band (1989) 4 Joshua Judges Ruth (1992) 5 I Love Everybody (1994) 6 The Road to Ensenada (1996) 7 Step Inside This House (1998) 8 My Baby Don’t Tolerate (2003) 9 It’s Not Big It’s Large (2007) 10 Natural Forces (2009) 11 Release Me (2012) 12 12th of June (2022) Resources and Related Links: DMDB profile page for Lyle Lovett DMDB Encyclopedia entry for Lyle Lovett Dave’s Music Database: “Concerts” First posted 11/13/2026.