’90s Country Folk Legend, 67, Is Nearly Unrecognizable in Rare Festival Performance: ‘She’s Still Great’ originally appeared on Parade.
From an early age country and folk icon Mary Chapin Carpenter, 67, claimed she was fascinated with music.
“I grew up listening to all kinds of music,” the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame inductee wrote in an essay in Will the Circle Be Unbroken: Country Music in America. “I particularly went for my older sister’s Beatles and Mamas & the Papas records. My other older sister had Judy Collins records, which I enjoyed filching as well. I especially loved my Bob Dylan albums and records by the Band. . . . Country music was represented in our house by Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Dolly Parton.”
After her mother put a guitar in her hands, Carpenter set her sights on performing. By 1987 she was signed to Columbia Records for a country recording contract. By the 1990’s Carpenter was fully embraced by popular country radio. She ended up winning five country Grammy awards. She was also named the Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year in 1992 and 1993.
And at the Newport Film Festival 2025 , Carpenter proved that she’s still got it. The renowned country icon took to the stage and performed an acoustic version of “Passionate Kisses” that truly overjoyed the crowd.
“I wish she would become main stream again. Great talent,” said one viewer.
“She is such a great entertainer,” noted another.
“I always love her music,” affirmed another.
Carpenter also wrote dozens of songs picked up by notable artists like Art Garfunkel, Cyndi Lauper, Joan Baez and many more.
Mary Chapin Carpenter Touring Dates
The performances will not be so rare for the beloved singer-songwriter. The artist is currently touring in support of her newest album called Personal History which released on June 6. She’ll be on the road from July 29th until October 11 across America.
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’90s Country Folk Legend, 67, Is Nearly Unrecognizable in Rare Festival Performance: ‘She’s Still Great’ first appeared on Parade on Jul 29, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared.
