Richard Thompson charms the sold-out Free at Noon crowd at World Cafe Live

Legendary folk-rock singer, songwriter, and guitarist Richard Thompson helped mark the 20th anniversary of the World Cafe Live building with a captivating Free at Noon performance that thrilled the sold-out crowd. Thompson, a longtime friend of WXPN, has been dazzling audiences since the late 1960s, starting as the lead guitarist for the influential Fairport Convention before launching a solo career with his 1972 debut Henry the Human Fly. Decades later, with a catalog of timeless songs and a loyal fanbase, Thompson returned to WXPN for a set that was as powerful as it was nostalgic.

Opening with his 1988 hit “Turning of the Tide,” Thompson’s acoustic prowess and heartfelt vocals set the tone for the afternoon. The audience was immediately entranced, with laughter and ovations punctuating the set. He followed with fan favorites “Persuasion” and the iconic “1952 Vincent Black Lightning,” both from 1991, taking the crowd on a journey through his storied career.

Thompson’s fans packed World Cafe Live, filling the venue with applause and whistles of admiration. Ever the charismatic performer, he bantered with the crowd, cracking jokes and sharing moments of light-hearted humor, adding to the warm and intimate atmosphere.

He then brought out his wife, Zara Phillips to sing harmonies, and played five more songs, including two from his latest album, Ship to Shore: “Singapore Sadie” and “The Day That I Gave In” which blended seamlessly with his older material. Wrapping up his set, Thompson dove into some classics from the ’70s and ’80s, delivering masterful renditions of “She Twists the Knife Again” (1985), “Withered and Died” (1974), and “Wall of Death” (1996).

Richard Thompson’s energy, talent, and genuine connection with the audience made this a highly memorable Free at Noon. His passion for music and gratitude for his fans, combined with a setlist that spanned decades, showcased exactly why Thompson remains one of the most revered artists in folk rock. Be sure to check out his new album, Ship to Shore, available on all platforms.