Video Premiere: Katie Knipp – “State Trooper”

Blues Rock Review is exclusively premiering Katie Knipp’s live performance of Bruce Springsteen’s “State Trooper,” the latest preview from her upcoming double live album, Live at Theater 5150, due out September 18.

Recorded before a live audience at Theater 5150, Knipp’s version of the stark Springsteen classic transforms the song into a driving blues-rock performance. Backed by her longtime band, Knipp delivers a passionate performance that highlights the chemistry and spontaneity that define her live shows.

The performance features Katie Knipp on vocals, piano, guitar, and harmonica alongside Pancho Tomaselli on bass, Steve Utstein on Hammond B3 and Wurlitzer, Neil Campisano on drums, and Quinn Hedges on lead guitar.

“One of my favorite albums of all time is the Nebraska album by Bruce Springsteen. A perfect moment for me is sitting in the backyard at dusk with a good cocktail in hand and listening to this record. It belongs at sunset for me. I love paying tribute to him and I love playing the rock and roll version we came up with live.”

Live at Theater 5150 captures the energy, spontaneity, and emotional connection that have defined Knipp’s 25-year career as a performing artist. Recorded entirely in front of a live audience, the album features 13 original songs along with Knipp’s interpretations of Bruce Springsteen’s “State Trooper,” Justin Townes Earle’s “If I Was the Devil” and the traditional blues classic “John the Revelator.”

The upcoming release marks Knipp’s 10th commercial album and serves as both a celebration of live performance and a snapshot of her acclaimed stage show. Reflecting on the project, Knipp emphasized the importance of authentic live music in an increasingly technology-driven world.

“This album is my love letter to live music,” says Knipp. “In a world increasingly driven by AI, this record is a reminder that nothing can replace the experience of human beings gathering together in a room and creating something real. Every note, every cheer, every imperfection, every moment of connection is part of the story.”

Knipp and her band will celebrate the release of Live at Theater 5150 with an album release show at The Torch Club in Sacramento on October 3 at 9 p.m.

Live at Theater 5150 will be released on September 18 through Katie Knipp Productions on vinyl, CD and digital formats.