Jake Bugg: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

There was a haze over Jake Bugg when he arrived at the Tiny Desk. He was expressionless and quiet. That all changed when he strummed fast and fierce on his acoustic guitar and began a flow of words reminiscent of Greenwich Village in the '60s, not modern Clifton in England's East Midlands, where he grew up.
Bugg is a prolific talent already working on his third record in as many years. His second album was produced by Rick Rubin and recorded in California. His recognition in the U.S. is still small, but that'll change - maybe even before we get that third record. --BOB BOILEN
Set List
"Slumville Sunrise"
"Me And You"
"Storm Passes Away"
"Lightning Bolt"
Credits
Producers: Bob Boilen, Denise DeBelius; Editor: Olivia Merrion; Audio Engineer: Kevin Wait; Videographers: Denise DeBelius, Olivia Merrion

[@mark_fox_music]

I feel as a Nottingham person from the same circle of friends as Jake I need to defend him a bit. He is the real deal. No hidden agenda or pretentious arty farty posing. No aesthetic lies. Clifton in Notts is one of the most depressing housing estates in the world and the biggest social housing estate in Europe. It is grim. For the last two years it's been having trams installed so there even the roads have been destroyed. Poverty levels are high and generally it's a tough working class area with no prospects. Jake has used all that anger to get out of Clifton. Get out of the hypocritical cottage industry musical vampire cess pit that is Nottingham too. What you see is pure music fuelled by anger, fear, love and smokes. Hes not a puppet. Not a showboater, he just plays from the heart and if people like it then great, if not he will just play harder until he at least earns your respect. Thats what us lot do here. Give him a break and just listen. You'll cry, think and laugh. He's a good bloke.

[@thekiltedwoodworker]

Mark Fox Thanks for the insight. It's not really the side of England one from the US normally thinks of, maybe. Good to see someone making his way in life doing something he obviously loves. Cheers.

[@mark_fox_music]

Ethan Sincox Thanks for the reply. Sorry if I sounded a bit strong! Honestly it's just amazing that his talent is getting heard because he's the real deal. I love these tiny desk concerts. They seem to be really humble gatherings and create a great vibe for musicians to play their best. This is the kind of thing that makes America such a romantic prospect for us Brits. Thanks :)

[@thekiltedwoodworker]

Mark Fox Wasn't too strong; just laying it out like it is, weren't you? Don't apologize for speaking plainly of how life can be. I was just saying that if you ask your typical American to picture England, you're more likely to get some Beatles-era Piccadilly Circus, a sleek modern London skyscape from the banks of the Thames, or mossy stone walls in a quaint country village - only some of which is realistic. The last thing someone pictures is projects the likes of Downs (Watts, CA) or Cabrini Green (Chicago). Or worse, apparently. Many of my favourite musicians seem to come from a background of hardship. As you said, he draws a lot of his lyrics and inspiration from that most prominent aspect of his life. It will be interesting to see how much of that insfluence remains in his future works. I think his continued success will hinge on his ability to maintain a connection with his roots. I'm definitely a fan, though, and look forward to seeing what he brings us next. Cheers,

[@mark_fox_music]

Ethan Sincox I would love to live in that Beatlesesque swinging 60s London so if Americans have that image thats great! Yeah sadly hardship does seem to produce good art though too. Anyway, cool video!

[@lucidinterval8012]

Ethan Sincox being for the benefit of mr. Kite?

[@lesliep5232]

a lot of shy people come across as stuck up and in reality they're sweethearts. i feel that's why people's first impression of jake bugg is that way. i dont know if he's shy but in my opinion he seems so lovely and genuine.

[@BreadGood_21]

Yeah bro he ain’t stuck up he’s just awkward. Not much of a talker that’s all 😂

[@howlingowl3254]

this kid has lived a thousand lives

[@ScreenArtUK]

+Howling Owl shame he hasnt and didnt write about it

[@shapedsilver3689]

You're just hearing the thousand writers he had helping him.

[@elizashepherd3002]

ShapedSilver He wrote his own songs, jackass

[@DelScully]

I've heard different though...

[@Suzibird307]

you ppl are so pathetically jealous.

[@CaseyTCalhoun]

It's this simple. Kid may play simple chords and have simple lyrics. But the thing is, he does it so well. He is a different type of artist than what is out now a days. I love it and believe he is highly talented.

[@henryjones7353]

What set’s Jake Bugg apart is the flourishes he adds; most beginners can play the bare bones of his songs. The little touches he adds on top of the chords show what a fucking fantastic guitarist he is

[@rhumandlove393]

Guitar expert alert.

[@sid35gb]

Err he’s a solid guitarist I’ve seen him play flamenco style, full on Robert Johnson finger style blues that sounds like 2 guitars. It’s all good but strumming chords on acoustic is such a nice feeling it’s very understandable that he likes playing chord rhythms.

[@OriganalFellas]

simple cords? my man this guy is gifted in both respects

[@plunksong]

i wouldn’t say they were simple

[@alyssaavega]

I feel like his music is so underestimated. He's a talented singer and one helluva guitar player. I love him and his music so much

[@kratni]

A 'no bullshit' young man. When you actually see him smile - you know it's genuine. Love that he doesn't do encores @ his live shows. This guy does not follow trends and what other ppl think is proper. Jake Bugg - you do you!

[@isabellapetch5107]

My dad's bestfriend Nick became good friends with Jake a few years ago after having met him in a pub in Chelsea. My dad and Nick have played tennis together for years and one afternoon, Jake came. Having heard the news my dad was playing tennis with Jake bugg i dropped everything and joined them in the pub after for a pint. He is a really shy soul, but a lovely one too.

[@xodancerxo]

Omg. I love it. Thanks so much for sharing! (I'm a fellow Isabela lol). I've been a fan of his since 2012-ish, and have yet to see him live :( He doesn't cross the pond to the U.S. often!

[@BreadGood_21]

Lucky bro He don’t ever come to Canada but if he does you can bet I’ll be there

[@bronwynbennett922]

Jake...Slumville is where I grew up! Thank you for existing and being such a BEAUTIFUL PLATFORM for the poor folks in the world....I know you have worked super hard for your talent...but you ARE SPECIAL!!!!

[@ALB3398]

The very fact that he hates the bob Dylan comparison makes him more like bob Dylan

[@0bb81]

+A.L. Bazzini He hates bob dylan?

[@Gaenico]

+0bb no he hates to be compared to Bob Dylan, not the same, he's a Dylan's fan

[@CamilaK0]

I relate him more to Donovan haha

[@esteraraujostudio]

I love Jake. He always looks baked as a fucking cake.

[@JayDizz92]

he is always baked as a fucking cake.

[@georgewade9748]

hahah

[@sourajs1995]

Nice

[@robsands6299]

There's something going on in this young man's head. I'm happy to see he's found a way to let it out

[@Wendellerins]

Seeing him play live this past weekend just solidified what I already had gathered. He is a great musician. I love his voice as it is unique..yeah, he sounds like Dylan sometimes but his voice is different. His accent while singing sets him apart from others. The kid is gifted and im a fan and always will be.

[@jordanadams7168]

3:58 the emotion on his face as he sings "I don't know what to do.."

[@KwiecienMs]

Love it, I could listen to this guy all day long.

[@mannaz_y]

The description says he wasnt in a good mood because he was 'expressionless and quiet'. I think thats the normal him lol.

[@lynxsaturn8107]

loll

[@johnnywhiteshoe]

+Luqman Nazery he grew up in a terribly neglected area. NPR's demographic allows him to assume that we don't "get" his struggle or understand the emotions fueling his songs. There is a lot going on in his head and in his heart that he probably doesn't allow everyone to see.

[@ILLEG4L21]

@johnnywhiteshoe I think you are trying to analyze it far too much. he is just stoned, simple as that

[@mannaz_y]

Douglas Massie i like your thinking sir.

[@coupdegrass]

It doesn't say he wasn't in a good mood. It says there was a haze over him. Sounds baked to me.

[@kevinvanmierlo-amezcua4977]

He just keeps me in a hold, dont know how.. his voice, it just locks my mind..

[@EnriqueCruz-zs4zq]

why do people keep forgetting that music is just a way of expression/art. Artists are just expressing and reflecting themselves through this outescape, each search something different and so do you. Simply go and search what you like and don't judge others. ( this comment is useless)

[@chozen_juan]

+Christian Philip Tee fuck off troll!

[@kayleemynhier7592]

Like art, the beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

[@mrkeng1]

Other "plz not hate". Everybody have the right to express their opinion. Simply go and read what you like and don't judge. Art is subjective for that reason can be love or hate.

[@RossB-d2p]

Saw him when he was 22 and thought he was great. He's 30 now and still going strong and writing very good songs. I urge you to go see him live. Huge talent that may be a secret to most Americans.

[@frameschubser]

I love that he still has these voice cracks. Just a genuine guy to represent all of us shy folk

[@timotheusn.h.nakashona1001]

Now I want more of his music the boy is a massive talent.

[@chiquemoderado]

He is incredible, especially live. His concert is one I would go to over and over again.

[@upallnightwithyabois3553]

You can tell he's a tortured soul. His music comes from the heart. God bless you, Jake.

[@zaitesushion]

Also thank you NPR for having him on (finally! he's been knocking around for quite a bit). I have aural fantasies of him collaborating with Jolie Holland.

[@SammyCee23]

Why so many NEGATIVE HATE Comments? This guy is good! I love anybody who only uses acoustic guitar and his/her voice. Nothing else.

[@jaybuza3794]

WHERE?!!!

[@Vocaloidesina]

I can't express how much I love him

[@sherylynn900]

Extreme talent...he'll be around a very long time.he's been blessed!!!

[@xHeartShapedBoxxx]

A couple of months ago I got to see him perform in Amsterdam. It truly was one of the best concerts I've attended. (And believe me; I've been to a few.) There was a great atmosphere and my friends and I felt kinda privileged by being able just to be there. I could truly recomment it!

[@jakeneuman8122]

Ya know it’s kinda neat. I listened to the first few seconds and wasn’t super into it but he just grew on me and now I can’t stop listening lol

[@bearboyyyyy]

VERY unique tone to his voice. I wonder what it would be like if he collab'd with someone.

[@Mooseplatoon]

+Bear Boy He sings like the drunken version of the male singer of The Subways. I like it.

[@beatleslennon5409]

He should with The Drury Brothers. They opened for him too

[@cyyytr0n]

I call (and beg) for Lee Mavers

[@kingstaa123]

people saying he's boring, uninteresting and so on he isnt here to win a personality contest (although Jake seems lovely judging by different interviews) hes a singer/songwriter and is he good at what he does? yes he is so what has his personality/looks/story got to do with him being a singer songwriter except that hiss songs may be about his story and experiences? really, get a life if you think that the music industry is only about looks and personality !

[@MegaSexytimes]

His career has been more about image than anything else - he doesn't write this songs by himself and he attends fashion shows, has modelled and dated a model. He's just shit, there's millions of kids out there who can do much better who won't ever get a chance to prove themselves because of this shit.

[@kingstaa123]

Well his profession is music and that's how he gained famer, all the other things come with fame

[@STaSHZILLA420]

MegaSexytimes Aside from everything you said, just listen to the music. That's all that matters. Its good music. Do you think Three Dog Night would be anything without Harry Nilsson? Music is music.

[@krishunten9154]

People who say he is boring are fans of Jayzee and Bejonce and M&M.

[@MegaSexytimes]

STaSHZILLA420 I don't think the musics anything special either, he has a few good songs which he blatantly didn't write himself (check album credits) his voice makes me uncomfortable anyway, it's like he doesn't even enjoy putting on the voice sometimes, can't get into it. Just gonna stick to the tallest man on earth and ben howard for my solo white guy with a guitar dose

[@asuperstraightpureblood]

Appalachian mountain music singers have this same quality. Cause it originally travelled here from Scotland, Ireland , England. It's definitely in this kids DNA. Fookin great

[@sonorousperigrination7164]

Honest truth: I love this. Will definitely look forward to hearing more of this guy's music.

[@leedeaton5814]

This kid is way beyond his years, plays rhythm guitar insanely good.

[@elemenopea9921]

Maybe it’s a stretch, but when I listen (and don’t watch him) I feel like I’m listening to old Hank Williams Sr. records. I dig it.

[@LadyNuman]

My new obsession, so talented, so intelligent when he speaks about his career, and is gonna keep getting bigger, refreshingly original! He said, "Be influenced, but never imitate" that says it all!

[@loririchardson1625]

I am really digging this so much! That guitar and the forceful feeling of his singing is pretty awesome.

[@Essy367]

Jake Bugg doesn't particularly seem boring... just reserved and distant in terms of revealing his true thoughts and emotions. It almost seems as if music is his creative outlet and personal mechanism in terms of sorting through his ideas and feelings, so I'd assume that having to constantly travel between countries and having interviewers threatening to pry into this hidden inner world of his can become overwhelming or even interpreted as a threat to his privacy to him. I'd guess he's the type of guy who feels reticent, if even a bit shy, around those he isn't familiar with and hesitates at exposing his deepest feelings or hidden faucets to anyone beyond his family and closest friends. Some people are just a bit more withdrawn, or perhaps even introverted, in nature than others, as I also am myself, yet as the cliche mentions, "still water runs deep."

[@KevinRichards-b4y]

This guy is absolutely the best

[@william4661]

"Storm passes away" is such a useful song. Put me right and in the right mood.

[@DannyFiver-m9k]

All the way from Nottingham to the tiny desk concert.

[@lewismccrimmon]

Absolutely perfection 👌 👍

[@gregjohnson1079]

Stop hating on him. He is a gifted guitarist and singer. You need to simply stop the judging and move on. If you think his playing is simplistic you are wrong; many of his other videos attest to this. It is pathetic that people complain about this type of thing.

[@kennethvinson1381]

Hank Williams and Bob Dylan this is your legacy, I hear those two and every artist either of them gave rise to. WOW!

[@hellothere8425]

totally took me back to the late 60s, excellent.

[@Loverof_christ99]

He’s insanely talented and not to flashy. Like oh so many mainstream garbage artists, good work jake, you’re the best🌟

[@neildewestelinck6639]

Such a good songwriter in my opinion

[@bunannie]

I love everything about his voice and music!!!

[@cyberwastemusic5560]

He is brilliant to talk to. Just chill and excellent =)

[@HarryPotterfan22222]

I just love everything about Jake ♥

[@gleivam]

Still on this almost 10 years later, great composer.

[@kiannaruesga]

i'm absolutely in love. he's amazing!

[@wonderwomanwhoelse862]

amazing, unique and talented

[@starnewjolouie]

ESSE CARA É PERFEITO Tô apaixonada

[@lillyandruben]

He has been to New Zealand and he was brilliant

[@heartlandsoul0121]

Sounds like Bob Dylan's passing the torch..very lovely work Jake Bugg!

[@WGBHMusic]

Hoping to catch Jake in Boston at some point. He's great!!! Nice call for Tiny Desk.

[@willlbrown]

Cenk Uygur haters gonna hate. this 'kid' is skilled

[@willlbrown]

*you're. you dumb fuck.

[@bronwynbennett922]

Long time Fan! So Much Soul in this Guy!!!

[@drearydeary1749]

This dude is pure rock n roll

[@MikeBikerKickstand]

Saw him open for The Black Keys in Winnipeg ...... he was terrific.

[@gracekellyenjambre]

i really love his music and his live performances!!

[@sitirizkaamalia867]

Me and you will always be my fav❤

[@southendonseaarts]

He has such a unique sound very accomplished musician.

[@ericapaigeschumacher6386]

I like how he sings about different states of mind.

[@RiddledinRizz]

i love the shredding, the clever lyrics, and his voice is OG to the max

[@garyturner1463]

Thank you Bluegrass Situation for turning me on the this artist. I really am enjoying Jake Bugg and his unique style, singing and guitar playing. Life is good. Hey Mr. Jake, please make it to Louisville, Ky, especially to our Public Radio Station for a set, Louisville Public Media at WFPK 91.9 fm. Tea on

[@seantye8007]

thank you for singing the song that i could not put into words. you are awesome man, keep it up

[@joeyozzaPS3]

As much as i love Jake Bugg that voice break at 10:27 was hilarious

[@gxrldrvgs]

luke skywalker's got some pipes

[@HorrorDimensionMusic]

😂

[@znet9452]

Amber Harris 😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@1jackroo]

Yep you are right I can see it now.. 😄

[@ItsBenbetter]

My first exposure to Jake and I loved it!

[@mizzomiz]

One hell of a nice performance! Thank you for this capture!

[@robertflynn6686]

Jake is really there! Good background music to hear. Like folk music.

[@Koralize]

thanks for sharing bro

[@andreaspsarros7622]

How cool is this man

[@fernandinhaeu]

so cute him in the end!!

[@garethjones3227]

Love his guitar style!

[@SeeMeRot]

Neo Folk?..... this is gold!.....

[@buskingkarma2503]

His rhythm on that acoustic!👌

[@bronwynbennett922]

I felt this EXACT way growing up! I moved from Charlotte NC to Atlanta GA IMMEDIATELY after graduating from nursing school to be away from my "upbringing" and find myself!

[@klw140793]

Brilliant

[@pillowiswako]

Great music!

[@fettyspice2028]

Love him

[@seanhartofilis9114]

Love this guy.

[@captainmilkbag]

He's awesome

[@lucreaguirre8439]

I'm in love.

[@zoechance5171]

Jake doesn't care about being noticed or being popular. He loves writing his own songs and singing so let him do it. He doesn't care about anyone giving him hate.

[@mazy.edit3230]

Best songs ever

[@arq.edgarsantiago9150]

10:25 lol that was priceless

[@bladesofsteel5474]

This dude is feckin awesome

[@bloodSCARSandMCR]

I love it.

[@KingHardcore5]

I love it man.

[@Klessiaa]

he's so freaking good!

[@jayoliver3002]

AMAZING!!!!!!

[@RobertF-]

He looks like the cartoon guy in the video for the Peter Bjorn and John song "Young Folks".

[@CaptainChuckk]

+Bob B. Ahahahaha, definitely!

[@RobertF-]

Yeah he should do a cover of that song and make a live action version of that video. Haha.

[@tj-kv6vr]

sorry for the sadness in your life Bob.

[@RobertF-]

terry pratt Thanks for understanding.

[@jaydlor949]

He sounds so nice :)

[@Iumekai]

Loooove that guitar

[@bigchief70]

I want to here Jake Bugg sing House of the Rising Sun.

[@tricktaylor]

"hear"

[@jfairs3579]

tricktaylor1983 oh shut it

[@ijemand5672]

you mean "hear"

[@timothy790110]

he does NOT have the power of Burdons voice, thats for sure.

[@anitonoyan6282]

Saw him live opening for the Black Keys in 2014. He's a legend.

[@annabarachanou4979]

poor Jake looks exausted... got to love this boy :) he is so talented.

[@Zen-hd9co]

Jake bugg is realy talented, one of my favorit artis

[@rabismenow]

He sings and plays without all the shit. I keep coming back to make sure I really like his music. And I must. Theres a quality in his voice...