As much as Stephen Colbert loves to aim his chiseled-point pun and humor in the direction of the White House, the host of “The Late Show” is a true song and dance man. His guests are frequently treated to an impromptu Stephen Colbert classic Broadway number, or a shuffle across the floor, buck and wing style. On March 13’s show, Stephen Colbert shared that he knew every word of “Sleep Through the Static,” one of the best-loved songs of Jack Johnson, who happened to be the night’s musical guest. He sheepishly dismissed Jon Batiste’s notion of singing a duet, saying he didn’t feel that the songwriter would let that happen, but then a whisper to the camera begged the contrary.
From Tillerson to tunes
Stephen Colbert was in rare form, poking fun at the impolite firing of Rex Tillerson, even switching from his perfected Trump-tone Twitter voice to deadpan Texan accent. He also had tie-in’s to the Stormy Daniels litigation issues and the Secretary of State’s uncharacteristically emotional parting comments.
Despite the political upheaval that seems to hit daily, Colbert couldn't help but let his exuberance over having Jack Johnson flow. It was blatantly evident that Stephen Colbert was way beyond “pretty excited” about hosting the singer-songwriter. When Jon Batiste brought up the possibility of his boss singing with the artist who has headlined at Bonaroo and a bevy of other music festivals, Stephen responded that “I don't think he would find that appropriate.” The next utterance was direct to the camera in a hushed plea of “Please let me do it!” that was utterly adorable.
Time with two of us
At last, the closing segment of “The Late Show” came. That time is reserved for showcasing musical artists who make an impact, and Jack Johnson certainly has made an impact on Stephen Colbert.
“This is the best job in the world, ‘cause I got what I wanted,” gushed the host right into the side-stage camera.
He introduced his favorite, “Sleep Through the Static,” and the next moments were TV and musical magic.
Like most of Jack Johnson's songs, this socially-conscious ballad is about much more than the rote behaviors of life and is especially lyric-laden. Stephen Colbert never missed a beat or a word, keeping in perfect sync with his partner.
He also stayed in perfect harmony, which became particularly beautiful when the two got to the “We've gone beyond where we should've gone,” line of the chorus. The lovely harmony added to its meaning.
Before the opening of the song, it was hard to tell which performer was more thrilled to be in this moment. Jack Johnson flashed a smile as broad as the stage, and after the closing chorus, there was no doubt that the audience felt the power and emotion of the divine exchange from the stage. A standing ovation was only appropriate.
“Sleep Through the Static” has not been performed live that often recently, but became an instant classic after the 2008 release of the album by the same name. Jack Johnson and Stephen Colbert topped off their time as a twosome with the more lighthearted “I Love You and Buddha Too.” Jack Johnson took the stage alone for “Big Sur,” from his latest album,” All the Light Above It Too,” which he released last September.
Stephen Colbert has fulfilled many musical dreams while hosting in the wee hours. He sang bluegrass with Steve Martin. Last week, he joined Talking Heads founder, David Byrne, for a unique and unifying performance. Now, he has added a collaboration with Jack Johnson to his memory archives. A man of high station in political commentary and ratings still has a right to capture his dreams.
