John Hiatt

John Hiatt will appear on 29 June 2026 at De Doelen in Rotterdam. The American singer-songwriter, guitarist and pianist moves effortlessly between rock, folk, country and rhythm & blues. He began in the 1970s as a songwriter in Nashville and released his own records from 1974 onward. In the 1980s he steered toward roots rock with Bring the Family and Slow Turning, followed by, among others, Perfectly Good Guitar in the 1990s. His songs have often been interpreted by other artists, giving his work a secure place in Americana and alt-country. From Crossing Muddy Waters onward he has explored a more acoustic approach; recently he collaborated with The Jerry Douglas Band on Leftover Feelings.

On stage, Hiatt’s focus is on story and melody, carried by a lightly raspy voice. The set balances ballads, midtempo rockers and songs with a blues edge, with guitar and sometimes piano at its core. Expect a cross-section spanning different periods of his career, in which compact arrangements leave room for the lyrics and timing. An evening where his songcraft is presented without frills, close to the essence of the song.