Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown took the stage at Bridgestone Arena on Friday (April 11) and Saturday (April 12) as part of “The High Road Tour.” Both nights, the arena was packed with eager fans, sporting tour t-shirts and “KB” hats, ready for the entertainer to deliver his high-energy set.
Ashley Cooke kicked off Saturday night with fan favorites such as “I Almost Do,” “Never Til Now,” “It’s Been A Year,” her Joe Jonas collaboration “All I Forgot” and more. She surprised the crowd with the announcement of her newest single “The F Word,” releasing this Friday (April 18), before previewing the tune. She also got the crowd rocking to a medley of cover songs including Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone,” Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated” and Rascal Flatts’ “Life Is A Highway,” before closing her set with her first No. 1 at country radio, “Your Place.”
Next up was Nashville native Mitchell Tenpenny, who was making his Bridgestone debut. Tenpenny soaked in every moment, playing hits including “We Got History,” “Bucket List,” “Alcohol You Later,” “Truth About You” and “Drunk Me,” among others. Tenpenny also showcased his newest radio single “Same Moon” off his The 3rd album. Energizing the crowd, he also delivered electric covers of 2Pac’s “California Love,” where his brother joined him for the rap portion, and ended his set with Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris.”
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
As the lights went dim, the arena was ready for Brown’s genre-blending, emotionally-charged and energetic show. From the moment smoke filled the air and Brown emerged dramatically at the end of the circle stage outstretched to the center of the venue, it was clear the crowd was in for a fun night.
The explosive kickoff came with “I Am,” accompanied by a burst of fireworks that set the tone for a night where spectacle and soul collided. He kept the energy high with “Start a Fire” and “I Can Feel It,” making the massive arena feel like a packed-out party.
When “Fiddle In The Band” hit, the spotlight turned to the fiddle player for a jaw-dropping solo that had the crowd roaring, but it was “Like I Love Country Music” that turned Bridgestone into a giant singalong, with fans shouting every word right back at him.
Kane Brown & Lauren Alaina. Photo: Matthew Paskert
One of the night’s best surprises came during “What Ifs,” when Lauren Alaina joined Brown on stage, bringing the house down for their chart-topping duet. He kept the good vibes rolling with the dance-filled “Lose It,” with Brown utilizing every inch of the giant stage, and a moody, blue-lit “Be Like That,” which saw him striding up a ramp at the back of the stage, captivating the audience with every step. After the band briefly exited, Brown took a moment alone sitting at the top of the ramp, diving into a heartfelt “Homesick.”
“People sometimes forget that celebrities are humans, too, and we go through things. This song is about some of my own personal struggles, and a reminder to everyone that you are not alone,” Brown said before transitioning into the beautifully emotional “Haunted,” made even more intense by a red fog and the illusion of the video screen burning away behind him, creating a highlight of the night.
Photo: Matthew Paskert
Brown and his band then walked to the edge of the stage, creating a setup in the middle of the arena for their stripped-back acoustic section, which Brown wanted to have imitate his high school days of playing at bonfires. The band shared intimate takes on “Backseat Driver,” “Worship You” and “For My Daughter.” Then Brown remained there by himself for a powerful solo performance of “Heaven,” where he asked the crowd to get as loud as possible. The crowd roared and shined their cell phone lights, illuminating the venue.
Brown kicked the party back into gear with “One Mississippi” before inviting Tenpenny and Cooke back out for a stellar rendition of “Says I Can.” He followed that with fan-favorite “Good As You.”
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Then came a tender moment when he was joined on stage by his wife Katelyn, who also impressed the crowd vocally, on “Body Talk,” with laser beams lighting up the entire stage, before launching into their duet “Thank God,” with the fans swaying and singing along to every word.
The finale was figuratively and literally pure fire with “Bury Me In Georgia” and “One Thing Right” featuring pyrotechnics and red lasers lighting up the arena. To cap it all off, “Miles On It” turned into a full-circle moment as Brown brought out the team who helped bring the music video to life, and one final singalong rippled through the arena.
Brown will continue “The High Road Tour” on April 24 in Columbia, South Carolina, before heading to Grand Rapids, Albany, Atlantic City and more.
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
‘Groceries With Dignity & Comedy Without’ Benefit Raises $500,000 In Three Years
/by Lorie HollabaughHenry Cho, Brad Paisley, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Kevin Nealon and Aaron Webber. Photo: Sean O’Halloran
Brad Paisley, actress and author Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Nationwide hosted another successful “Groceries with Dignity & Comedy Without” comedy benefit for The Store April 13 at Zanies Nashville.
This year’s “Groceries with Dignity & Comedy Without” featured comedians Kevin Nealon, Henry Cho and Aaron Webber and took place during Nashville’s Comedy Festival. The evening also featured a cameo appearance by Lelan Statom, weather anchor for WTVF in Nashville, who participated in the performance of a song Brad wrote about the city’s recent tornado outbreaks and cell phone alerts.
For the third consecutive year the benefit show sold out, and in three years the event, has raised more than $500,000 dollars for The Store, the free-referral based grocery store founded by the Paisleys that aims to empower low-income individuals and families in the Nashville area. The Store operates with the mission of allowing people to shop for their basic needs in a way that protects dignity and fosters hope.
Tim Jorgensen Joins Opry Entertainment Group As VP Of Operations In Austin
/by Lorie HollabaughTim Jorgensen
Hospitality and entertainment veteran Tim Jorgensen has joined Opry Entertainment Group’s Austin team as Vice President of Operations.
In his new position, Jorgensen will lead OEG’s Block 21 businesses, including ACL Live, 3TEN and W Austin in Austin, and provide strategic direction for the entire Block 21 complex, as well as have direct oversight of the day-to-day operations at ACL Live and 3TEN. Jorgensen will report to Gary Scott, Chief Operating Officer at Opry Entertainment Group.
Jorgensen comes to OEG from ASM Global, where he managed an array of arenas, stadiums, convention centers and theaters, and was instrumental in launching the Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. He also served as President of Crew One Productions, a full-service production labor company, where he led strategic acquisitions and oversaw the Festival Division. His career also includes leadership roles at Live Nation and House of Blues Entertainment, where he was responsible for managing multiple venues throughout the Southwest Region.
“Tim is a strong fit for our Austin team, bringing more than 20 years of experience that aligns with our commitment to delivering high-quality hospitality and unforgettable entertainment experiences,” says Patrick Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Opry Entertainment Group. “His deep understanding of the Austin market and music industry make him uniquely equipped to elevate our brand as we continue to scale our business and establish Block 21 as the city’s premier destination for music and entertainment.”
“I’m thrilled to join the Opry Entertainment Group team and help shape the future of Block 21,” shares Jorgensen. “ACL Live is a tremendous venue and wonderful asset to Austin’s world-renowned music scene. I look forward to building on its legacy by bringing even more live music to the city and increasing the utilization of this iconic venue, all while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences for artists, fans and the Austin community.”
Ian Munsick & Montana Silversmiths Launch Exclusive Jewelry Collection At Boot Barn
/by Lorie HollabaughIan & Caroline Munsick wearing pieces from the Ian Munsick x Montana Silversmiths Jewelry Collection. Photo: Cam Mackey
Wyoming native Ian Munsick has collaborated with Montana Silversmiths to release a unique new exclusive jewelry collection blending traditional Western style with contemporary flair.
The collection, which arrives just ahead of the release of Munsick’s third album Eagle Feather out this Friday (April 18), will be available exclusively at Boot Barn Nashville stores and BootBarn.com beginning April 17. The jewelry pieces include the White Buffalo Bolo Tie, Eagle Feather Buckle, Cloudy Mountain Cuff Bracelet and the Blacktooth Cuff Bracelet. Every piece is thoughtfully designed to embody the rugged spirit of the American West and the craftsmanship of Montana Silversmiths, marking the debut collection in the line.
“Nothing defines the west like those born and raised in it,” shares Munsick. “Its tradition lives through us and its survival depends on us. That’s why this collaboration with Montana Siversmiths is so authentic; we are both western natives. When I see these pieces we’ve created, I’m immediately transported back into the culture that made me who I am.”
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our exclusive Ian Munsick collection in partnership with Boot Barn,” says Marshall Smith, VP of Marketing, Montana Silversmiths. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared passion for the heritage and artistry of the American West. As Ian continues to push boundaries in both fashion and music, we believe this partnership marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey and very much look forward to bringing this line to the masses.”
To celebrate the launch, Boot Barn will host an event at the 2nd Avenue store in Nashville on April 17 from 1-4 p.m., just before Munsick takes the stage at The Pinnacle that night. Those in attendance will be able to experience the collection firsthand and enjoy a range of activities, including Leather Branding, a Happenstance Whiskey Tasting, Ian’s Signature Old Fashioned cocktail “Fire Water” and hidden tickets to Munsick’s concert.
The Ian Munsick x Montana Silversmiths collection will be available while supplies last, and there will be a nationwide launch in July in select Boot Barn stores as well online.
Chris Janson Returns To Warner In Partnership With His Harpeth 60 Records [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Tom Lord (Manager, Red Light Management), Cris Lacy (Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville), Kelly Janson (manager), Chris Janson, Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair & Co-President of Warner Music Nashville) and Clay Hunnicutt (Honey Music). Not pictured: Ray Vaughn and Lauren (Longbine) Bartlett.
Chris Janson has returned to Warner Music Nashville, in partnership with his own Harpeth 60 Records.
Warner Music Nashville previously released Janson’s first three albums—Buy Me A Boat, Everybody and Real Friends—which helped launch the Grand Ole Opry member’s career. Since then, he’s amassed billions of global streams, earned multiple Gold and Platinum certifications, and surpassed 10 million in sales as an artist. He’s charted five No. 1 hits, including “Buy Me A Boat,” “Fix A Drink,” “Good Vibes,” “Done” and “All I Need Is You.” Janson has also written multiple hits for other artists.
Now, he brings Harpeth 60 Records into the fold, with radio promotion led by Clay Hunnicutt as National, alongside team members Ray Vaughn and Lauren (Longbine) Bartlett.
“This new chapter of my career is so exciting,” shares Janson. “I’m incredibly humbled and grateful for the new partnership with Warner. My Harpeth 60 imprint is second to none, with a great promotion staff—headed up by Clay Hunnicutt and flanked by Ray Vaughn and Lauren Bartlett. This is an awesome overall partnership, and I’m thankful to have them on my side.”
Janson is expected to release new music under the partnership this summer.
Callum Kerr Signs With ONErpm & Huff Co.
/by Madison HahnenPictured: (L-R, back row): Angela Chamberlain (ONErpm) and Kylie Dembek (ONErpm); (L-R, front row): Ryan Cunningham (ONErpm), Callum Kerr and David Huff (Huff Co.).
Country artist Callum Kerr has inked with ONErpm & Huff Co.
“I’d heard about the Huff’s before even landing in Nashville” shares Kerr. “Couldn’t have been more delighted when David called me with the offer. And to team up with ONErpm is even more awesome, given their experience in music marketing and distribution. The music is recorded and ready to go, and I think everyone is super excited to get it out into the world.”
Born in Scotland and now residing in Nashville, Kerr released his debut single in 2023, “Tequila Therapy.” He followed that up with “Tamed In Tennessee,” a collaboration with Chris Andreucci. Earlier this year, he released his newest track “Cold Beer Cold,” which has amassed over 500,000 Spotify streams.
“When we first met Callum, we had an instant connection” says Dann and David Huff. “Working with him in the studio was effortless, even having to record a few of his vocals via Skype while he was filming in South Africa! His Scottish roots along with his country rock roots really bring a new feel to his debut country EP. This guy is gonna come out of the gates smokin’!”
“Callum Kerr is a true entertainer,” adds Ryan Cunningham, Director of A&R, ONErpm Nashville. “We’ve watched him captivate live audiences with just him and a guitar, and our entire team is excited for everyone to hear the new music he’s created with Dann and David Huff. With this new project, Callum is bringing a sound to Country music that is true to who he is as an artist, and we can’t wait for the world to hear it.”
Outside of music, Kerr also spends time professionally as a model and an actor. He has held roles in 13 movies/TV series, including Monarch, Virgin River, One Piece and more.
BREAKING: Lost Highway Records Teams With Interscope Geffen A&M To Launch New Chapter
/by LB CantrellJake Gear and Bobby Knotts. Photo: Matt Paskert
The iconic Lost Highway Records is entering a new chapter with the support of Interscope Geffen A&M. Robert Knotts and Jake Gear will lead the Nashville-based label as Executive Vice Presidents & Co-Heads.
Founded in 2000 by Luke Lewis, Lost Highway became home to culture-defining artists of the era such as Kacey Musgraves, Willie Nelson, Ryan Bingham, Hayes Carll, Lucinda Williams, Drive-By Truckers, Lyle Lovett, Tift Merritt, Robert Earl Keen, Shelby Lynne, Elvis Costello and Mary Gauthier. The label was absorbed into Mercury Nashville when Lewis retired in 2012.
Earlier this year, former UMG Nashville head Cindy Mabe announced the relaunch of the label in partnership with T Bone Burnett, who produced the new hit country album for Ringo Starr, Look Up, released on Lost Highway. In this new iteration with Interscope, Burnett will continue to collaborate with the label on a number of projects, including the 25th Anniversary edition of the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack.
John Janick, Chairman & CEO, Interscope Capitol and IGA, handpicked Knotts and Gear to take Lost Highway into the future. Each executive has deep roots in Nashville and embodies the spirit that has guided both Lost Highway and Interscope – an unwavering commitment to putting artists first. As Executive Vice Presidents and Co-Heads of Lost Highway, Knotts and Gear will lead the label into a new chapter, assembling a team of their own team in Nashville who will work closely with IGA.
“Lost Highway carved out a special place in the remarkable musical legacy of Nashville. It was a left-of-center label with one-of-a-kind artists who, at their core, were great songwriters and moved culture. Similarly, Interscope has always been a beacon to artists who don’t fit into a box yet are destined to inspire what comes next,” Janick shares. “With this new chapter in Lost Highway’s history, we are devoted to empowering the next generation of trailblazers, both artists and executives.”
Knotts joins Lost Highway from Nashville-based Thirty Tigers, where he rose through the ranks from intern to Senior Vice President, Artist and Label Services. Over the past 12 years, he has played an integral role in shaping the team, structure, and culture of Thirty Tigers while facilitating campaigns for artists such as Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Sturgill Simpson, Lucinda Williams, Turnpike Troubadours, Maggie Antone, Muscadine Bloodline and more. A native of Georgia, he graduated from UGA.
Knotts says, “Over the course of my career, my goal has always been to operate in service to the artist’s vision while understanding the emotional connection to their art. It is with this same spirit that Lost Highway left a lasting impact on the Nashville community—providing a home for artists who aren’t defined by genre and recognizing that the artist’s vision ultimately shapes culture itself. I am honored to carry that approach forward alongside one of my closest friends, Jake Gear. With John Janick’s guidance, and support from the entire Interscope team, we have an incredible opportunity to combine an artist-first mentality with Interscope’s remarkable ability to help build worlds around an artist’s vision.”
Gear comes to Lost Highway from UMG Nashville where, as Vice President A&R, he was instrumental in signing and developing breakthrough artist Tucker Wetmore, working closely with Vincent Mason (whom he previously signed for publishing), as well as A&Ring studio albums by Parker McCollum, Jordan Davis and Dierks Bentley and single releases on Sam Hunt, Josh Ross, Brothers Osborne and Brad Paisley.
An Iowa native and Belmont graduate, he spent 12 years in the publishing community on Music Row, helping to land hit records with Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, Kelsea Ballerini, Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan and Eric Church. In 2020, he partnered with Hillary Lindsey and Concord Music to launch Hang Your Hat Music, and has produced critically acclaimed albums for Hailey Whitters and Flatland Cavalry.
“Lost Highway has a rich history. Many of these releases and artists were formative in developing my own appreciation of the craft of songwriting,” Gear shares. “The label was a pioneer in taste, representing an ethos of artistry first, an openness to taking creative risks and shining a light on artists who drifted on the fringes of the major label defined ‘mainstream.’ Together with my friend, Robert, and with the backing of John Janick and Interscope, I look forward to curating the roster.”
Industry Ink: Riley Green, Warren Zeiders, Nashville Comedy Fest, More
/by Lorie HollabaughRiley Green Wraps Canadian Tour, Celebrates Gold, Platinum Stats
Riley Green. Photo: Samuel Crabtree
Riley Green wrapped the Canadian leg of his “Damn Country Music Tour” on April 5 in London, Ontario. The tour made stops across the country including Kelowna, Abbotsford, Regina, Kingston, Toronto and London.
During his Toronto show on April 4, Green was presented with a plaque by Nashville Harbor/Big Machine Label Group, recognizing his impressive achievements in Canada. To date, he has amassed over 284 million streams in the country and more than five billion streams globally, and the following releases have received official Canadian certifications: “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” (3x Platinum); “There Was This Girl” (3x Platinum); “Different ‘Round Here” (2x Platinum); “Worst Way” (Platinum); Different ‘Round Here (Gold); “If It Wasn’t For Trucks” (Gold); “Georgia Time” (Gold) and “Half Of Me” (Gold).
Warren Zeiders Takes A Bite Out Of The Big Apple During Media Blitz
Warren Zeiders did a round of TV appearances last week in New York City, performing “You For A Reason” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and the TODAY Show. The track is the latest standout from his new album Relapse, Lies, & Betrayal. The 25-year-old country phenom recently surpassed 3.6 billion career streams and kicked off his previously-announced “Relapse Tour” with a sold-out show at Nashville’s The Pinnacle.
April 3 Now Officially Nashville Comedy Festival Day
Pictured (L-R): Freddie O’Connell, tenth Mayor of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County; Brian Dorfman, owner and co-CEO, Outback Presents; Mike Smardark, founder and co-CEO, Outback Presents and Andrew Farwell, Vice President, Outback Presents. Photo: Courtesy of Outback Presents
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell officially named April 3 Nashville Comedy Festival Day. Now in its 11th year, the Nashville Comedy Festival, produced by Outback Presents, continues to bring top-tier comedy to Music City. The fest brings together some of the biggest names in comedy for a week of unforgettable performances. This year’s lineup includes legends like Jay Leno, Nikki Glaser, Wanda Sykes and more.
Brady Seals Hosts A Nashville Night for Hadley Benefit
Pictured (L-R): Devon O’ Day, Porter Howell (Little Texas), Lua Crofts Faragher, John Riffe, Brady Seals, Rodney Crowell, Deni Baker, Gordon Kennedy, Blair Masters, Ricky Skaggs, Mike Rogers, Hadley Phillips, Brooke Phillis and Raelynn Phillips. Photo: Michelle Goble
Brady Seals hosted a benefit concert and silent auction, “A Nashville Night for Hadley,” on April 10 at 3rd & Lindsley in Nashville. The event supported 20-month-old Hadley Phillips and her family from Centerville, Tennessee.
Hadley was recently diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfects, a rare and severe bone disorder. All proceeds from the event, along with funds raised through a GoFundMe campaign created by Seals, will go toward covering Hadley’s medical expenses not covered by insurance. The standing-room-only show featured an all-star lineup of performers, including Devon O’Day, Gordon Kennedy, Jeffrey Steele, Porter Howell, Ricky Skaggs, Rodney Crowell, Seals & Crofts 2 and Ty Herndon.
Hope Darst’s ‘Peace Be Still’ Goes Gold
Hope Darst celebrates her first RIAA Gold Certification with her label, Fair Trade Services + team
Worship leader, songwriter and artist Hope Darst has received her first RIAA Gold certification for her top 5 radio hit and GMA Dove Award-nominated song, “Peace Be Still.” The single was released from her debut album and was co-written by Darst, Andrew Holt and Mia Fieldes.
This certification proceeds her brand new project, In The Mighty Name, which will be released on April 18. The new album includes 13 live tracks, featuring the current single, “Mighty Name of Jesus,” which has already inspired over 250K fan-created posts on social media, generating more than 70 million views.
Date Set For 2025 Music Row Ladies Golf Tournament
/by LB CantrellMRLGT 2024 first place costume contest winners Team Regions Bank featuring Hannah Dasher and Elvie Shane.
The 38th annual Music Row Ladies Golf Tournament (MRLGT) will take place on Monday, Aug. 11 at Old Natchez Country Club in Nashville.
With all proceeds again going to United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee, the tournament is one of Music Row’s longest-running charity events and United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee’s largest annual fundraiser. Throughout its 38-year history, the MRLGT has raised $2.5 million for the organization, supporting people with disabilities across Middle Tennessee by providing wheelchair ramps, home modifications and medical equipment donations.
The longtime tournament tradition of teams collaborating on themed costumes will continue this year.
“The MRLGT is a cherished Music Row tradition that we are honored to present year after year,” shares former Nashville music industry executive and MRLGT Founder Herky Williams. “Last year, the tournament generated roughly $84,000 for United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee. The funds placed over 1,800 pieces of durable medical equipment, built 232 wheelchair ramps and financed eight home modifications.”
Registration opens in June, with more details to be announced soon. For information about becoming a sponsor or contributor, reach out to MRLGTnash@gmail.com.
Jack Wharff Inks With Kobalt
/by John Nix ArledgePictured (L–R, back row): Kevin Lane, Stephanie Cox and Morgan Brasfield; (L–R, front row): Mason Romm, Jack Wharff and Nate Fenningdorf
Singer-songwriter Jack Wharff has signed with Kobalt Music.
The 21-year-old from Richmond, Virginia has made a name for himself by blending the storytelling of country music with the soulful energy of bluegrass. Currently based in Nashville, his self-titled group, The Jack Wharff Band, is signed to Big Machine Label Group and represented by United Talent Agency for touring.
“We are thrilled to embark on the Jack Wharff journey! From the moment Allison Jones played the Jack Wharff band for me, I was hooked,” explains Kobalt Nashville GM Stephanie Cox. “His music is raw and honest, and his band delivers the songs with an electrifying blend of bluegrass, country, and rock.”
Playdate Mgmt’s Mason Romm adds, “Thank you so much to the Kobalt team, we’re super excited to start working with them. Excited for Jack’s journey to start at Kobalt!”
“I’m so blessed to join the Kobalt family,” echoes Wharff. “I can’t wait to see what God has in store for the future.”
Kane Brown Cements Superstar Status At Bridgestone Arena Weekend Run
/by Madison HahnenKane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown took the stage at Bridgestone Arena on Friday (April 11) and Saturday (April 12) as part of “The High Road Tour.” Both nights, the arena was packed with eager fans, sporting tour t-shirts and “KB” hats, ready for the entertainer to deliver his high-energy set.
Ashley Cooke kicked off Saturday night with fan favorites such as “I Almost Do,” “Never Til Now,” “It’s Been A Year,” her Joe Jonas collaboration “All I Forgot” and more. She surprised the crowd with the announcement of her newest single “The F Word,” releasing this Friday (April 18), before previewing the tune. She also got the crowd rocking to a medley of cover songs including Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone,” Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated” and Rascal Flatts’ “Life Is A Highway,” before closing her set with her first No. 1 at country radio, “Your Place.”
Next up was Nashville native Mitchell Tenpenny, who was making his Bridgestone debut. Tenpenny soaked in every moment, playing hits including “We Got History,” “Bucket List,” “Alcohol You Later,” “Truth About You” and “Drunk Me,” among others. Tenpenny also showcased his newest radio single “Same Moon” off his The 3rd album. Energizing the crowd, he also delivered electric covers of 2Pac’s “California Love,” where his brother joined him for the rap portion, and ended his set with Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris.”
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
As the lights went dim, the arena was ready for Brown’s genre-blending, emotionally-charged and energetic show. From the moment smoke filled the air and Brown emerged dramatically at the end of the circle stage outstretched to the center of the venue, it was clear the crowd was in for a fun night.
The explosive kickoff came with “I Am,” accompanied by a burst of fireworks that set the tone for a night where spectacle and soul collided. He kept the energy high with “Start a Fire” and “I Can Feel It,” making the massive arena feel like a packed-out party.
When “Fiddle In The Band” hit, the spotlight turned to the fiddle player for a jaw-dropping solo that had the crowd roaring, but it was “Like I Love Country Music” that turned Bridgestone into a giant singalong, with fans shouting every word right back at him.
Kane Brown & Lauren Alaina. Photo: Matthew Paskert
One of the night’s best surprises came during “What Ifs,” when Lauren Alaina joined Brown on stage, bringing the house down for their chart-topping duet. He kept the good vibes rolling with the dance-filled “Lose It,” with Brown utilizing every inch of the giant stage, and a moody, blue-lit “Be Like That,” which saw him striding up a ramp at the back of the stage, captivating the audience with every step. After the band briefly exited, Brown took a moment alone sitting at the top of the ramp, diving into a heartfelt “Homesick.”
“People sometimes forget that celebrities are humans, too, and we go through things. This song is about some of my own personal struggles, and a reminder to everyone that you are not alone,” Brown said before transitioning into the beautifully emotional “Haunted,” made even more intense by a red fog and the illusion of the video screen burning away behind him, creating a highlight of the night.
Photo: Matthew Paskert
Brown and his band then walked to the edge of the stage, creating a setup in the middle of the arena for their stripped-back acoustic section, which Brown wanted to have imitate his high school days of playing at bonfires. The band shared intimate takes on “Backseat Driver,” “Worship You” and “For My Daughter.” Then Brown remained there by himself for a powerful solo performance of “Heaven,” where he asked the crowd to get as loud as possible. The crowd roared and shined their cell phone lights, illuminating the venue.
Brown kicked the party back into gear with “One Mississippi” before inviting Tenpenny and Cooke back out for a stellar rendition of “Says I Can.” He followed that with fan-favorite “Good As You.”
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Then came a tender moment when he was joined on stage by his wife Katelyn, who also impressed the crowd vocally, on “Body Talk,” with laser beams lighting up the entire stage, before launching into their duet “Thank God,” with the fans swaying and singing along to every word.
The finale was figuratively and literally pure fire with “Bury Me In Georgia” and “One Thing Right” featuring pyrotechnics and red lasers lighting up the arena. To cap it all off, “Miles On It” turned into a full-circle moment as Brown brought out the team who helped bring the music video to life, and one final singalong rippled through the arena.
Brown will continue “The High Road Tour” on April 24 in Columbia, South Carolina, before heading to Grand Rapids, Albany, Atlantic City and more.
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert
Kane Brown. Photo: Matthew Paskert