Jo Dee Messina Shares Retrospective On Her Life At Special Ryman Show

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Jo Dee Messina performs at the Ryman Auditorium. Photo: Louie Waddle

Jo Dee Messina took fans on her journey to country stardom Saturday night (April 27) in front of a sold-out audience at the Ryman Auditorium.

She also celebrated some success backstage before the special show in a private reception, where she was presented with plaques commemorating five new RIAA certifications, including double Platinum status for her hit singles “I’m Alright” and “Bye Bye;” Gold and Platinum status for ’90s country anthem “Heads Carolina, Tails California” and Gold status for “Bring on the Rain” and “Lesson In Leavin.’”

Pictured (L-R): Wasserman Music’s Nate Ritches, Vanderbilt’s Stuart Dill, Red Light Management’s Bryan Frasher, Jo Dee Messina, Curb Records’ Benson Curb, Jen Swirsky, 117 Entertainment’s Zach Farnum. Photo: Louie Waddle

Messina’s Ryman debut offered a chance for her to spotlight her “Road to the Ryman” retrospective on her life. From songs she was raised on to music that encouraged her to move to Nashville from Massachusetts, fans heard snippets of “Baby, I Lied,” “Break It To Me Gently,” “Whoever’s In New England,” “Rumor Has It,” “Girl’s Night Out” and more. She credited her early success to her producers Tim McGraw and Byron Gallimore, while sharing massive hits like “Bye, Bye” and “Lesson In Leavin.’”

Some poignant and impactful moments of the night came when Messina shared her testimony and journey with God. She welcomed a Gospel choir from Three Oaks Church in Gallatin, Tennessee to join her on a medley of tunes including “My Jesus,” “Bigger Than This,” “Child of Love” and “Reckless Love.” She also shared a few new songs she’s written during the evening. 

“I was blown away by the crowd and its enthusiasm. Industry, family, friends, fans—the room was filled with that mixture. It was a one-of-a-kind experience,” reminisced Messina.

Messina’s “Heads Carolina, Tails California (HCTC2) Tour” will run through the year around the country. The New England native will give a special performance of the National Anthem at the iconic Fenway Park for the Boston Red Sox game before heading to her show at the House of Blues on June 2.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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