Center Stage cover

Released 18 years ago this June

Center Stage

Tommy Emmanuel · 2008

100 min · 24 tracks · blues · country · contemporary folk music

An exuberant showcase of fingerstyle guitar blending folk, blues, and rock influences with a vibrant live energy.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with dynamic peaks
  • exuberant energy for social gatherings
  • engaging fingerstyle guitar showcases
  • for lively afternoon vibes
  • short tracks for varied listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking deep introspective experiences
  • prefer longer, cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Center Stage' was released in 2008, Tommy Emmanuel had established himself as a respected guitarist known for his virtuosic fingerpicking style and engaging performances. This album, recorded live, followed his breakthrough album 'Endless Road' (2006) and highlighted his ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
Stylistic neighbors
Leo Kottke· Chet Atkins· Michael Hedges

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Finger Lakes 3:37
  • 2 Papa George 1:53
  • 3 Train to Dusseldorf 2:02
  • 4 I Go to Rio 2:18
  • 5 Nine Pound Hammer 4:46
  • 6 Old Town 3:02
  • 7 And So It Goes 3:23
  • 8 Jolly Swagman 3:03
  • 9 Sukiyaki 1:34
  • 10 Happy Hours 2:23
  • 11 Ruby’s Eyes 4:18
  • 12 Beatles Medley 6:10
  • 13 Mombasa 9:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Workin’ Man Blues 5:29
  • 2 Georgia on My Mind 5:10
  • 3 House of the Risin’ Sun 6:15
  • 4 Amazing Grace 4:30
  • 5 Story of Little Boy 1:35
  • 6 Tall Fiddler 2:23
  • 7 Cowboy’s Dream 3:30
  • 8 Morning Aire 5:55
  • 9 Initiation 10:53
  • 10 Lenny Bro’ 3:12
  • 11 Questions 3:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata