Renowned singer-songwriter Robbie Fulks is set to perform at Tulips on November 9, 2025, with doors opening at 19:00 and the show beginning at 20:00. Fulks, known for his eclectic style that blends bluegrass, country, and folk, will be accompanied by fellow musician David Forsyth.
New Album Highlights Fulks’ Bluegrass Roots
Fulks’ latest release, Bluegrass Vacation, available through Compass Records, marks a return to his bluegrass roots. This album features an impressive lineup of musicians including Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Justin Moses, and Alison Brown, among others. The album consists of 11 original songs and a unique rendition of the Delmore Brothers’ work, exploring themes such as small-town blues, love, loss, and the enduring impact of music.
His previous album, Upland Stories (2017), received critical acclaim, being recognized as one of the year’s best by NPR and Rolling Stone. It earned two Grammy nominations, highlighting Fulks’ significant contributions to the American roots music genre.
A Journey Through Music and Influence
Born in York, Pennsylvania, Fulks grew up across various small towns in Pennsylvania and Virginia. He learned guitar from his father and honed his banjo skills through influential records. After studying at Columbia College in New York City, he moved to Chicago in 1983, where he joined the Special Consensus Bluegrass Band.
Fulks has played a crucial role in the alternative country movement since the 1990s, with early solo albums like Country Love Songs (1996) and South Mouth (1997) helping to define the genre. His music often reflects the trials and tribulations of everyday life, emphasizing a connection to common experiences.
Throughout his career, Fulks has appeared on prominent radio programs, including WSM’s “Grand Ole Opry” and NPR’s “Fresh Air.” He has also made various television appearances, showcasing his talents on platforms such as PBS’s “Austin City Limits” and NBC’s “Today Show.” Additionally, Fulks hosted a performance program on XM satellite radio from 2004 to 2008.
In recent years, Fulks has expanded his repertoire, exploring rock-and-roll with his 2018 collaboration with Linda Gail Lewis, Wild! Wild! Wild!, and creatively reinterpreting Bob Dylan’s Street-Legal with his double-vinyl project titled 16.
As an instrumentalist, Fulks has collaborated with renowned artists across genres and remains a beloved figure in the music community. His work has garnered attention not only for its musicality but also for its insightful lyrical content, which often resonates with listeners on a personal level.
With his upcoming performance at Tulips, fans can look forward to an evening filled with the rich sounds of bluegrass and storytelling that has made Robbie Fulks a significant voice in contemporary music.
