Renowned musician Robbie Fulks is set to perform at Tulips on November 9, 2025, bringing his unique blend of bluegrass to the stage alongside fellow artist David Forsyth. Doors open at 19:00, with the show commencing at 20:00. This concert marks a significant return to Fulks’ bluegrass roots, coinciding with the release of his latest album, Bluegrass Vacation, on Compass Records.
Fulks’ new album features contributions from an impressive roster of musicians, including Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, and Alison Brown. The record comprises eleven original tracks and a reinterpretation of a classic by the Delmore Brothers. The themes explored in these songs range from the struggles of small-town life, the endurance of childhood memories, to the complexities of love and loss, including the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on families.
A seasoned artist, Fulks has garnered acclaim for his previous work, particularly his 2017 album, Upland Stories, which received accolades from notable outlets such as NPR and Rolling Stone. It earned two Grammy® nominations, showcasing Fulks’ ability to weave compelling narratives within his music.
Born in York, Pennsylvania, Fulks spent his early years in various small towns across the eastern United States. He learned guitar from his father and honed his banjo skills through records by Earl Scruggs and John Hartford. His musical journey led him to Chicago in 1983, where he joined Greg Cahill’s Special Consensus Bluegrass Band and later became a staff songwriter on Music Row in Nashville.
Fulks’ influence on the “alternative country” movement of the 1990s is undeniable, with his albums Country Love Songs and South Mouth helping define the genre. In recent years, he has focused on acoustic music that emphasizes his flatpicking and banjo playing, resonating deeply with the themes of everyday life.
In addition to his solo work, Fulks has collaborated with a variety of artists, including Linda Gail Lewis on their duo album, Wild! Wild! Wild!, and his ambitious reinterpretation of Bob Dylan’s Street-Legal, titled 16. His extensive career has included notable appearances on platforms such as PBS’s Austin City Limits and NPR’s Fresh Air.
Fulks’ contributions extend beyond performing; he has also made significant impacts as a producer and writer. His work has been featured in publications such as GQ and Blender, where his insights into music and life have resonated with audiences.
As he prepares for his upcoming concert, Fulks continues to explore diverse musical landscapes while maintaining a deep connection to his roots. His passion for music, storytelling, and community remains at the forefront of his artistic journey. Fans can expect an engaging performance that celebrates the rich tradition of bluegrass music and its relevance in contemporary society.
This concert promises to be a memorable evening, showcasing Robbie Fulks not just as a performer, but as a storyteller whose music reflects the complexities of life and the enduring power of family and memory.
