In my head, Charlie Mars and Abe Partridge seemed like an unlikely pair to share an evening, and an even more unlikely pair to share a stage and trade songs, but that’s what they did at Rams Head On Stage on Oct. 7. Mars revealed that this was the first time he’d ever asked anyone to share a stage with him, but he and Partridge had been friends for a long time, and he thought it would be a good idea. The two did appear very friendly, even after sharing a lot of time in the car together on this tour.
I first became aware of Mars in 2009, when he had what someone in the audience referred to as a “minor hit” with “Listen to the Darkside.” I always liked that song, but whenever I’ve seen Mars live, I’ve been struck by how good a songwriter he is. I’m not his accountant, but I’d guess his financial success from the movies and TV shows that have featured his songs has allowed him to sustain his career as a musician. Which is kind of a shame, because he’s written some really good songs. One I especially liked was “Nothing You Can Do,” written about a man who stopped showing up at rehab meetings.
Mars played a bunch of good songs that evening, most of them preceded by interesting stories, including how “I Do I Do” was written the night before his college roommate’s wedding to satisfy a promise he couldn’t remember making. Several songs featured audience singalongs.
Watch the official music video for “I Do I Do” by Charlie Mars on YouTube:
I can’t say enough about Abe Partridge. I think he’s one of the best story songwriters I’ve ever heard. If you think I’m exaggerating, go listen to “JJP from Elba ALA” and tell me what you think after you wipe your eyes.
Partridge has a unique stage presence that tends to confuse people who haven’t seen him before. Every time I’ve seen him, someone inevitably laughs uncomfortably early in his set, but then comes to regret it after hearing the songs. Songs about his grandfather, an alien invasion, the state of the music industry, and even chickens. All great story songs.
All in all, it was a nice evening full of really good songs from two fine songwriters with very different styles. The audience loved it, and the two singers also seemed to genuinely enjoy each other’s performances.
Here are some photos of Charlie Mars and Abe Partridge performing live at Rams Head On Stage on Oct. 7, 2026. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Steve Satzberg.
