When an enormous crowd gathered around a single picnic bench at popular Chicago hot dog stand The Wiener Circle, it was clear something special was happening that was drawing people in. Standing on top of the picnic table was Jesse Welles, the modern folk singer who has attracted a large following since he started posting online in 2024. In a surprise pop-up show, he was about to entertain the crowd with a cover of John Denver’s classic ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads.’
Music Man readers who already know Jesse will know that his music is heavily inspired by the rock, folk, and country of the 60s and 70s, making this the perfect song for him. His performance was simple but effective, his rough vocals adding a raw authenticity to the song. Once again, Jesse’s online following loved the cover, with multiple people sharing that they felt moved to tears, and one commenting, “Thank you Jesse. For every song, every ounce of energy you pour into EVERY SINGLE SONG.”
It wasn’t only Jesse’s following online that responded strongly to the cover. I was very moved to see the crowd that had gathered around him singing along with him, volume and enthusiasm growing as the song continued. The sound was incredible with such a large crowd gathered, and I found it very moving to see how many people were able to come together in a moment of joy, even in such an unusual concert setting. No matter where he plays, Jesse Welles simply seems to bring people together.
This was not a simple one-song spectacle for Jesse. He ended up playing a full concert from his spot on top of the picnic bench. The setlist included many of his original folk songs, but Music Man fans who want to see the crowd come together in another sing-along should definitely check out his cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ‘Have You Ever Seen the Rain?’ Once again, the classic inspired the entire crowd to come together in a heartwarming moment of connection.
Jesse Welles has been compared to classic folk singers like Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie, thanks to his raw style and frank protest songs. These artists are remembered fondly for bringing people together in solidarity, and it is clear that Jesse has also inherited this same quality. Nowadays, Jesse is bringing people together in massive numbers at his amphitheater concerts or at festivals, but for those passing through Chicago that day, they got to experience Jesse’s talent in an entirely unique way.
Jesse Welles continues to prove himself a unifying, soulful presence — his Weiner Circle pop-up was proof enough. If you enjoyed this glimpse into his music and live warmth, discover more via the useful links below this paragraph to hear his songs, follow his work and find upcoming surprise shows.