PHOTOGRAPHS BY David McClisterL
ukas nelson and his band, Promise of the Real, are on a winning streak: Not only
have they been performing to massive crowds, backing their mentor Neil Young, but
they also recently opened for the Who at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. “It was
one of the highlights in all of our lives,” says Nelson, 30. “I think that we’re going to be able
to do a lot more with them.” He and Promise of the Real are currently on tour in support
of their fifth studio album, Turn Off the News (Build a Garden), a rec ord that urges listen-
ers to embrace the natural world. “I feel very aligned with the concept of this record, more
than I have been with any piece of art I’ve ever put out,” the singer-guitarist says. “We want
it to reach into the world and spread that message as far and wide as we can.” The band is
doing just that, playing theaters and festivals throughout the
summer. “I believe it’s a masterpiece — what we’ve been able
to accomplish, and the ability to connect with a real issue in a
way that doesn’t alienate anybody and brings people togeth-
er,” Nelson adds. “A rising tide lifts all ships.” ANGIE MARTOCCIOHanging out backstage with Promise of the Real
Lukas Nelson’s
Ragged Glory
MAD HATTER Nelson
backstage in a hat he
wears in honor of Tom
Petty and Leon Russell.
“It’s a reminder of my heroes
who came before,” he says.ON THE ROADThe Mix
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