St. Vincent Covers Jeff Buckley’s “Grace” & Depeche Mode – Watch Live Performance

St. Vincent’s “Grace” and the Resurgence of Jeff Buckley

Annie Clark, known professionally as St. Vincent, delivered a stirring rendition of Jeff Buckley’s signature song “Grace” at Little Saint in Healdsburg, California, on Tuesday, March 3rd. The performance, witnessed by a crowd of just 280 people, is part of a broader moment of renewed interest in Buckley’s work, fueled by a recent documentary and an unexpected chart success for the late singer-songwriter.

Clark’s set at the intimate venue wasn’t solely a tribute to Buckley. She also showcased her own material and included a fan-requested cover of Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus,” as well as a cabaret-style reimagining of her song “Los Ageless.” A video of her performance of “Grace” – alongside a snippet of “Personal Jesus” – is now circulating online, offering a glimpse into the special evening. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRe3syyd6_0.

A Buckley Revival

The renewed attention surrounding Jeff Buckley is multi-faceted. Last year’s documentary, It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley, brought his life and music to a new generation. More surprisingly, Buckley’s 1994 track “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over,” from his only studio album Grace, landed his first-ever entry on the Billboard Hot 100 this year, a remarkable feat for a song released over three decades ago. He also received his first nomination for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Stereogum reported on the Hot 100 hit, and Stereogum also covered the Rock Hall nomination.

This resurgence is also being attributed, in part, to the song’s popularity on TikTok, demonstrating the platform’s power to introduce classic music to new audiences. The enduring appeal of “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” and “Grace” speaks to the timeless quality of Buckley’s songwriting and vocal performance.

St. Vincent’s Connection to Buckley’s Legacy

St. Vincent’s choice of “Grace” isn’t simply a random cover. There’s a subtle but significant connection between the two artists. Matt Johnson, the drummer on Buckley’s Grace album, was a touring member of Annie Clark’s band in the 2010s. This shared musical history adds a layer of depth to St. Vincent’s interpretation, suggesting a passing of the torch and a shared understanding of the song’s emotional weight.

As Archyde notes, St. Vincent’s performance at Little Saint wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience. Clark engaged with the audience, even borrowing a Nike cap from a fan and accepting a bouquet of roses. This willingness to connect with her audience in unconventional ways is a hallmark of her live shows.

From Intimate Venues to Festival Stages

St. Vincent has been playing a series of smaller venues recently, including three shows at NYC’s Cafe Carlyle last fall, and the Little Saint performance. These intimate settings allow for a more personal connection with fans, as evidenced by the interactions during the Healdsburg show. However, Clark will soon be back on the festival circuit, with performances scheduled throughout the spring and summer.

Following the festival run, St. Vincent has two special orchestral shows planned in San Diego (August 1) and Los Angeles (August 2). These performances promise a unique and ambitious reimagining of her music, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

The Art of the Cover Song

St. Vincent’s cover of “Grace” highlights the enduring power of the cover song as an art form. As Memesita points out, a successful cover isn’t about imitation, but about revelation. St. Vincent didn’t attempt to replicate Buckley’s iconic vocal performance; instead, she offered her own interpretation, highlighting the song’s emotional core and bringing a fresh perspective to a beloved classic.

This approach is particularly effective with a song as emotionally raw and technically demanding as “Grace.” Buckley’s original recording is a masterclass in vulnerability and vocal control, and St. Vincent’s cover demonstrates a deep respect for the song’s power while also showcasing her own unique artistry.

Looking Ahead: Orchestral Shows and Summer Festivals

St. Vincent’s immediate schedule focuses on her upcoming festival appearances and the two orchestral shows in California. These performances will likely offer further opportunities for experimentation and improvisation, building on the momentum generated by the intimate shows at venues like Little Saint. Fans can expect a dynamic and engaging live experience, blending her established catalog with unexpected covers and a continued exploration of her musical boundaries.