Folk History Revisited as Joan Baez Tribute Concert Lights Up San Francisco
San Francisco witnessed a significant moment in contemporary folk music on February 8, 2025, as Jackson Browne and Joan Baez performed together at the Masonic Auditorium during A Night to Honor Joan Baez. The evening, presented by the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, gathered a full audience to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of folk music most influential figures.
The highlight of the night was a live performance of Before The Deluge, a song originally written by Jackson Browne and released on his 1974 album Late For The Sky. Joan Baez later recorded her own version on her 1979 album Honest Lullaby, adding her distinct voice to the song’s legacy. The two artists also previously performed the piece together in 1989 during a PBS concert special, making this 2025 rendition a rare continuation of their shared musical history.
The event featured a broad lineup of respected artists including Emmylou Harris, Bonnie Raitt, Rosanne Cash, Margo Price, Lucinda Williams, Taj Mahal, Hozier, Tom Morello, and Joe Henry, along with additional surprise guests. The concert served both as a tribute and as a benefit for musicians in need, supporting the ongoing mission of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.
Joan Baez, whose career spans more than six decades, has long been recognized not only for her music but also for her commitment to social activism. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and remains a defining voice in American folk history. Although she retired from touring in 2019, her influence continues through recorded work, publications, and documentary features.
Emmylou Harris expressed gratitude for participating in the tribute, describing Baez as a cherished friend. Sweet Relief Musicians Fund executive director Aric Steinberg emphasized Baez’s cultural importance, noting her role in bridging public artistry and personal conviction while supporting the music community through charitable efforts.
The evening reinforced Joan Baez’s lasting impact on music and culture, while also highlighting the continued relevance of Jackson Browne’s songwriting in live performance contexts that connect generations of listeners.