Photos and Review by Ilya Mirman
Galleries: Duff McKagan, Lee Ving
On November 4, 2024, Duff McKagan brought his “Lighthouse ’24” tour to Boston’s Paradise Rock Club, delivering a performance that was raw, reflective, and brimming with rock history. Fans were treated to an evening that blended McKagan’s solo work with covers and a few nostalgic nods to his Guns N’ Roses and Loaded days. The intimate setting of the Paradise Rock Club felt perfect for McKagan’s personal brand of rock, offering a unique opportunity to see the legendary bassist step into the spotlight as a singer and storyteller.
The set opened with “Forgiveness,” setting a contemplative tone that ran throughout the night. Duff’s gritty voice brought a weighty sincerity to tracks like “Chip Away” and “This Is the Song,” both of which reflect his recent work’s meditative and confessional style. “I Saw God on 10th St.” stood out as a stirring high point, with its mix of grunge and soul baring, resonating deeply with the crowd.
McKagan’s performance of “Tenderness” was a highlight, transforming the room with its aching honesty. He followed it up with “Feel” and “Holy Water,” carrying the crowd into a space that was as much about introspection as it was about pure rock energy. The audience’s excitement hit a fever pitch with a cover of The Stooges’ “I Wanna Be Your Dog.” The classic punk anthem showcased McKagan’s ability to embody the essence of rock ‘n’ roll while paying homage to the genre’s roots.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came with a guest appearance from punk icon Lee Ving, who joined McKagan for a raucous rendition of “All Turning Loose.” The collaboration added an extra layer of authenticity and raw energy to the show, reminding fans of McKagan’s deep ties to the punk world. “I Just Don’t Know” and “Fallen Ones” continued to reveal McKagan’s contemplative side, while “Wasted Heart” from his Loaded days brought a sense of nostalgia for longtime fans.
As the night progressed, McKagan kept the crowd engaged with newer material like “Longfeather” and “Just Another Shakedown.” The set then took a rebellious turn with a cover of “I Fought the Law,” a Crickets classic, that had the crowd singing along with infectious energy. However, it was the stripped-down rendition of Guns N’ Roses’ “You’re Crazy” that truly electrified the room. Fans relished hearing this classic in an intimate setting, feeling both the weight of its history and the freshness McKagan brought to it.
The emotional peak of the night was McKagan’s tribute to his Johnny Thunders, with “You Can’t Put Your Arms Around a Memory.” Featuring Jakob Dylan, this heartfelt performance captured the vulnerability that has come to characterize McKagan’s solo work. Dylan stayed onstage for a powerful cover of David Bowie’s “Heroes,” a poignant moment that reminded everyone of the transcendent power of rock.
Duff closed the show with “Don’t Look Behind You,” a fitting send-off that left fans buzzing. This concert was more than just a showcase of McKagan’s solo repertoire; it was a testament to his journey as an artist and a reflection of his enduring influence. Each song was delivered with conviction, from the rockers to the ballads, creating an unforgettable evening for those lucky enough to witness it. This night in Boston wasn’t just a concert – it was a raw, reflective, and rocking celebration of Duff McKagan’s legacy and his ever-evolving artistry.