Indianapolis, IN. – ZZ WARD’S DIRTY SUN TOUR in support of her latest album LIBERATION brought a potent blend of blues, rock, and R&B to a captivated audience on March 25th to the TOBIAS THEATER inside NEWFIELDS and curated by FORTY5. As the night unfolded, ZZ Ward’s magnetic stage presence became immediately apparent, commanding the room with her soulful voice and raw energy. From the opening notes of her set, the crowd was swept into a dynamic musical journey, where she effortlessly wove together tracks from LIBERATION with her signature earlier hits. The new material, infused with personal storytelling and empowerment, resonated deeply with fans. Ward’s ability to shift from gritty, sultry blues to energetic, upbeat anthems had the crowd swaying and singing along.
ZZ was joined on stage with PRESTON HAYDEN (bass), DEBETRICE EVERETT (drums), and ROHAN ARORA (lead guitar). The band was tight and equally impressive, with the rhythm section providing a solid foundation for Ward’s powerful vocals and blues-infused harmonica work. Whether performing slower, more reflective tracks like “I NEED SOMEONE” or faster-paced songs like “CADILLAC MAN“, ZZ showcased both her versatility as a performer and her growth as a musician. Her stage presence was commanding but intimate, as she has an effortless way of connecting with the audience, making them feel like they are a part of something special. Ward didn’t just perform, she invited us into her world, sharing stories and emotions with every note.
LIAM ST. JOHN, along with CHRISTIAN STARRETT (lead guitar) and LUCA CHIAPPARA (double bass), opened the show and set a strong tone with his compelling mix of Americana and blues influences. His performance was a standout in its own right, with his raspy vocals and intricate guitar work captivating the audience before ZZ Ward took the stage. ST. JOHN’S raw, emotive delivery was a perfect precursor to the evening’s main event, and his energy was infectious, helping build the anticipation for the headliner.
Overall, ZZ WARD’S DIRTY SUN TOUR is a must-see for both longtime fans and newcomers. Her evolution as an artist is clear, LIBERATION might be the album of her career so far, and this tour is the perfect reflection of her musical maturity. If you’re looking for a show that blends rock, soul, and deep passionate blues, don’t miss the chance to experience ZZ Ward Live.
ZZ WARD’S SETLIST – INDIANAPOLIS
- MY BABY LEFT ME (Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup cover)
- DUST MY BROOM (Elmore James cover)
- LET IT BURN
- LIBERATION
- I HAVE NO ONE
- MOTHER
- CANNONBALL
- LOVE ALIVE
- IF I COULD BE HHER
- BAG OF BONES
- CHARLIE AIN’T HOME
- GRINNING IN YOUR FACE (Sam House cover)
- SINNER’S PRAYER (Ray Charles & B.B. King cover)
- LIL’ DARLIN
- LIONESS
- SEX & STARDUST
- RIDE
- PUT THE GUN DOWN
- CADILLAC MAN (The Jesters cover)
ENCORE:
- NAKED IN THE JUNGLE
- CRIMINAL
- MOVE LIKE YOU STOLE IT
SHOW DATE: 03/25/25
