ARCOLA - It was a phenomenal performance by an up and coming star at the Mac Murray Theatre in Arcola Saturday night.
Playing with only a guitar and without backup vocals or a band, Carlyle’s Morgan Robertson put on quite the show and her first ever onstage performance was simply amazing.
Robertson alternated songs between various artists and originals that she has composed herself the past few months. Elvis Presley, Fleetwood Mac and Chris Stapleton were some of the artists featured. The titles of some of her original songs included Green Eyes, Straws, Wandering Hands, Wine and Flowers, and Quarter to Two, among others.
She ended the two-hour performance with her hit single Goodbye Train, which has earned her many accolades.
The Observer interviewed a number of those who were in attendance:
Nicole Currie – “Morgan is an amazingly beautiful talent. Her songwriting abilities are tremendous and the way she makes every cover song she sang her own, is a gift. I’m excited to see what the future holds for her. I’ll be able to say that I saw her when she sang for an intimate crowd at the Mac Murray Theatre.”
Kelvin Luedkte – “Morgan is an awesome performer. She has a strong but soothing voice at pitch perfect. Her original songs and unique renditions of some oldie goldie hits was something special. Truly an up and coming music artist who is just beginning a long career.”
Melinda Wyatt – “Last night’s performance was something we all needed at this time, to feel somewhat normalcy, even for a few hours. Morgan is an extremely talented young lady with a sweet style. I was completely surprised at how many songs she has written, at such a young age. I loved her choices of other artists she likes to follow. You Are My Sunshine pulled at my heartstrings as that is something I sang to all my kids, and now my grandkids, definitely a special song. I have always been a huge Tenille Arts and Justin Labrash fan and I feel Morgan is definitely going places as are they. Good luck to this young lady.”
Dennis Feduk – “I was very impressed with Morgan’s writing abilities of her songs. As well, this was my first visit to the Mac Murray Theatre and it won’t be my last. What a great facility for the town of Arcola.”
Lenna Wilson – “Morgan’s easy stage presence, bluesy country sound and lyrics written as if taken from the chapters of one’s own life, created an unforgettable, compelling performance; possibly best described through Roberta Flack’s words, “strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his song.” For those of us that have an emotional connection to the song You Are My Sunshine, thank you Morgan for sharing your rendition. To say it was exceptional would be an understatement. This girl has talent.”
Terry Johnston – “I don’t know Morgan and I had never heard her sing before. Such a beautiful strong voice. And the variety of songs she sings! Her original songs are very worldly for an 18-year-old. She appeared comfortable and at ease on stage.”
Danielle Benjamin – “This Morgan Robertson live concert was amazing. She has such a strong voice and can sing anything. From Chris Stapleton, Fleetwood Mac, Matchbox Twenty, her original songs, and even Elvis, she sang them all. The Mac is a neat smaller venue for an intimate concert with this rising young star. Keep singing Morgan.”
Arcola Optimist Club president Blake Brownridge was pleased with the turnout. “On behalf of the club, I wish to sincerely thank everyone who attended. This was our first live performance we have had since 2019 and hopefully our medical issues are behind us. And, of course, special thanks to this very talented 18-year-old. No doubt Morgan will be heading for bigger and better things in the coming months.”
