Music Reviews

Ashley Cooke | McCoy Moore Baby Blues World Tour | Joe’s Live | Rosemont, IL | Thursday October 1st at 8pm Ashley Cooke at Joe’s Live Rosemont, 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery Joe’s Live in Rosemont was anything but blue when Ashley Cooke brought her Baby Blues World Tour to town. With a packed room, a crowd ready to sing along and a setlist filled with songs that blend modern country with honest storytelling, Cooke delivered a night that showcased exactly why she continues to make waves in country music. Before Cooke took the stage, McCoy Moore warmed up the crowd with his beaming baritone vocals. With style rooted in his Central-Florida charm, Moore embodies a modern sound with the throwback country spirit. He performed some of his songs, including “Sunshine State,” “Prayin’ for Me,” and “Something to You.” McCoy Moore at Joe’s Live Rosemont, 2026 The crowd erupted in cheers as Cooke made her way to the stage. From the moment she stepped onto the stage, Cooke brought an undeniable energy to Joe’s Live. While performing to a large crowd, Cooke has a way of connecting with each and every person in the audience with her confidence and warm personality. Her shows feel more like hanging out with an old friend rather than spending a night with a performer. Cooke’s music balances her vulnerability along with her carefree style, highlighting the high and low points of life and relationships. With heartfelt songs such as “If I’m Being Honest,” “Swear Words,” “The Girl Who Cried Wolf,” and “It’s Been a Year,” the crowd connected with Cooke on a more personal level. The upbeat moments with “Excuses,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” “High School Sweetheart,” and “The Hell You Are” had the crowd on their feet singing and dancing along to every word. Ashley Cooke at Joe’s Live Rosemont, 2026 One of the highlights of the evening was hearing the authenticity in Cooke. While Cooke brought some of her most recognizable songs to life, it was the stories behind them that added another layer to the evening. Fans come to live shows to hear their favorite songs performed live, but the stories shared about the creation and emotions behind them let the audience feel a deeper connection with each song and create new meanings for themselves. Throughout the show, Cooke never lost that genuine connection with her audience. The Baby Blues era also gave Cooke plenty of room to showcase her personality. The album and tour are an extension of who she is as not only an artist, but as the person she is- fun, honest, confident, and unafraid to embrace both the good and messy moments that come with life. Cooke allows fans to see more of who she is outside of her stage persona. Through this tour and album, we see more of who Cooke is outside of the spotlight. Ashley Cooke at Joe’s Live Rosemont, 2026 Joe’s Live provided the perfect setting for Cooke’s tour. The entire audience sang back lyrics all night long, feeding off of the energy coming from the stage. By the end of the night, it was clear that Cooke built more than a concert crowd- she created a room full of people who felt connected to the music and made new friendships with one another. Ashley Cooke’s Baby Blues World Tour made its stop at Joe’s Live a memorable one, delivering a mix of country storytelling, powerful vocals and plenty of personality. If the night was any indication of what’s ahead for Cooke, her Baby Blues chapter is only getting started—and country music fans have plenty more to look forward to. McCoy Moore at Joe’s Live Rosemont, 2026 For additional information on these artists and events coming to Joe’s Live, please visit: Ashley Cooke- https://ashleycooke.com McCoy Moore- https://www.mccoymooremusic.com Joe’s Live- https://www.joesliverosemont.com Image Gallery: Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Scotty McCreery | Trey Pendley | Ashlyn Ellis Hometown Jams | Valporasio, IN | Sunday August 30th, 2026 at 5:00pm Scotty McCreery at Hometown Jams, 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery The warm summer evening provided the perfect backdrop for Hometown Jams, as fans of country music gathered at the Central Park Plaza for a night of live music. The atmosphere was relaxed, with lawn chairs scattered around while fans filled in the lawn. Groups of all ages were amongst the crowd, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the artists in the lineup. The early evening began with music from up-and-coming artists Ashlyn Ellis and Trey Pendley, who brought their unique sound and energy to their performances. The crowd slowly grew as they settled in to watch the opener’s performances, basking in the atmosphere. Ellis and Pendley brought an energy to the audience while they awaited the arrival of the headliner for the night. Scotty McCreery at Hometown Jams, 2026 Once the stage was set for McCreery, the crowd was ready. He kicked off his set with “You Time,” and had the crowd on their feet. His rich polished sound and easygoing charm brought a sense of comfort and warmth to the night. His deep country vocals carried across the lawn, filled with recognizable hits and songs that showcased not only his sound, but his storytelling and influences. By performing hits such as “Five More Minutes,” “Bottle Rockets,” “This Is It,” and “It Matters to Her,” McCreery kept the audience engaged and singing along all night. McCreery has proved time and time again that traditional country is still alive. There is an undeniable sense of connection between McCreery and the audience that can always be found at his shows. At every one of his performances, he highlights many decades of classic country hits from some of his idols, such as Elvis Presley, Randy Travis, George Jones, Garth Brooks, and Josh Turner. His performances draw in fans of all ages to enjoy his music and help keep the traditional country music sound alive. Scotty McCreery at Hometown Jams, 2026 The setting only added to the experience. As the night progressed and the sun set, the stage lights became more prominent against the night sky, while the crowd remained in full energy until the last note played. The evening was another opportunity for McCreery to showcase why he remains such a prominent name in the country music world. With hits including “Cab in a Solo,” “Damn Strait,” and “In Between” McCreery highlights classic country storytelling and narratives with a more contemporary sound, creating a unique and classic style. McCreery’s strong vocals, familiar hits, and genuine easygoing stage presence made him a fitting headliner for the night. As the night began to come to a close with the final notes playing, the audience held onto their energy until the end and created a lasting moment not just for themselves, but McCreery as well. With a sense of connection and community throughout the audience, it felt more like a large family hang out than a traditional concert. Scotty McCreery at Hometown Jams, 2026 For additional information on Scotty McCreery and Hometown Jams, please visit: Scotty McCreery- https://scottymccreery.com Hometown Jams- https://hometownjams.com Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Josh Turner | Faith Groves Arcada Theatre | St. Charles, IL | Saturday August 29th at 8:00pm Josh Turner at the Arcada Theatre, 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery The Arcada Theatre was filled with the sound of country music from Josh Turner when he brought his This Country Music Thing Tour to St. Charles, Illinois. With fans pouring in to hear Turner’s rich baritone voice, they were able to hear from up-and-coming artist Faith Groves. With heartfelt vocals and her contemporary sound, Groves set the tone of the night by warming up the crowd. Her bold, confident voice carried throughput the historic theatre and captured the attention of the audience. Groves performed many of her own songs, including “Get the Hell Outta My Way” and “Classic,” along with some covers including a tribute to Dolly Parton with “I Will Always Love You.” She left the fans eager for the night ahead. Faith Groves at the Arcada Theatre, 2026 The atmosphere shifted when the lights dimmed and Turner stepped onto the stage. His deep baritone filled the theatre with his opening song “Whirlwind” which drew in the audience for a night of traditional country. Turner has been in the music industry for two decades and has stayed true to his sound over the years, drawing in new fans while also keeping the longtime ones excited for his new music. He moved effortlessly through various seasons of music, including classics such as “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” “Would You Go with Me,” and “Your Man.” Turner also performed some of his newer music and shared stories that solidified the importance of the music.  “Unsung Hero” is a song that Turner wrote about his grandfather who was in World War II that he has been able to perform for military soldiers on their bases, as well at the White House. While Turner’s voice captures the audience’s attention, his truthful stories behind his sings keep the fans engaged and connected more with the music. Turner’s unique storytelling through his music allows his fans to relate to his music in their personal own ways. Josh Turner at the Arcada Theatre, 2026 Turner’s ability to let his voice and stories carry throughout the performance is what makes him stand out as an artist. His vocals and storytelling complemented well with his easy-going stage presence, making the evening feel intimate and personal for every member of the audience. With the backdrop of the historic theatre, the warm, nostalgic environment carried through the whole night. Turner and Groves gave the audience a well-rounded performance containing both contemporary and traditional country with rich voices that held the night together. By the final notes of Turner’s encore of “Long Black Train,” the audience was on their feet celebrating a night they will remember. It was clear by the end of the evening that Turner’s songs still have the power to bring a theatre full of fans together. Josh Turner at the Arcada Theatre, 2026 For additional information on these artists and events coming to the Arcada Theatre, please visit: Josh Turner- https://www.joshturner.com Faith Groves- https://www.faithgroves.com Arcada Theatre- https://www.arcadalive.com Image Gallery: Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Lee Brice | Ashley Cooke | Dylan Raymond Lake County Fair | Crown Point, IN | Thursday August 6, 2026 at 6pm Lee Brice and Paul Rippee at the Lake County Fair, 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery The midway lights, sounds of the fair and excitement of a summer night set the scene as the Lake County Fair in Crown Point, Indiana, welcomed country star Lee Brice to the stage. With a career filled with heartfelt ballads, rowdy anthems and songs that have become staples of country radio, Brice brought a crowd-ready energy to the fairgrounds. From the opening notes to the final singalong, he delivered the kind of performance that reminded fans why his music has remained a favorite among country audiences. Before Brice took the stage, Ashley Cooke and Dylan Raymond warmed up the audience. Raymond brought his 90’s country sound to the stage. While it may have just been him and his guitar, he captivated the audience with his signature voice and electrifying live performance. He had the audience on their feet during his set with his high energy performance and catchy songs. Raymond showcased his unmistakable voice with his songs, such as “Take It Slow,” “I Can Be That,” and “Til the Cows Come Home.” His unstoppable energy introduced many new fans to his music. After his set, Raymond met fans at his merch table, thanking everyone for the love and support. The energy shifted as the band took the stage, signaling the start of Cooke’s performance. As one of country music’s young magnetic storytellers, Cooke has made her name in the music scene. Her voice carries a tenderness and confidence that captures the audience and keeps them following along. Cooke connects with the audience with her raw honesty in her songwriting, creating a safe, relatable environment. Known for her high energy and emotionally charged performances, Cooke kept the crowd on their feet, singing along to each song. With performances of new music such as “Excuses,” “Baby Blues,” and “High School Sweetheart” mixed with her chart-topping hit “Your Place,” Cooke created an environment welcoming both new and old fans. The moment the lights dimmed, the audience erupted in cheers for the arrival of Lee Brice. His signature raspy, gravel-edged vocals carried across the fairgrounds, bringing a raw authenticity to his ballads while adding plenty of grit to his more upbeat country anthems. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Brice delivered a performance that balanced both his high energy attitude country hits and emotional ballads. His easygoing personality and commanding stage presence captured the attention of the audience, keeping them on the edge of their seats the whole night. Brice performed a wide variety of his own music including “One of Them Girls,” “Parking Lot Party,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Rumor,” and “Killed the Man.” One of Brice’s strong suits was knowing when to let the songs speak for themselves and when to let interactions with the fans shine through. He created a performance that felt polished and genuine, leaving the crowd wanting more at the end of the show. As the night came to a close, Lee Brice left the Lake County Fair crowd with exactly what they came for: familiar country hits, heartfelt storytelling and plenty of energy. His combination of gritty vocals, genuine stage presence and connection with the audience made for a memorable night in Crown Point. With the lights of the fairground surrounding the stage and thousands of fans singing along, Brice proved that his music continues to have the power to bring a crowd together. For additional information on these artists and the Lake County Fair, please visit: Lee Brice- https://www.leebrice.com Ashley Cooke- https://ashleycooke.com Dylan Raymond- https://www.dylanraymondmusic.com Lake County Fair- https://www.lakecofaircp.com Image Gallery: Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Windy City Smokeout United Center | Chicago, IL | July 8th-12th, 2026 Windy City Smokeout 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery Scotty McCreery with Hootie & The Blowfish at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 Chicago’s summer festival season reached its peak as Windy City Smokeout 2026 returned to the heart of the city for four unforgettable days of chart-topping country music, championship barbecue, and an atmosphere unlike any other. With thousands of fans filling the grounds from the moment the gates opened each day, the festival once again proved why it has become one of the nation’s premier country music events. From mouthwatering barbecue crafted by acclaimed pitmasters to electrifying performances from some of country music’s biggest stars and rising talents, Windy City Smokeout offered the perfect blend of incredible food, unforgettable live music, and the vibrant energy that keeps fans coming back to Chicago year after year. Jordan Davis at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 Fans poured into the festival once the gates opened eager to claim their spots for the day and explore the variety of venders and BBQ options. The weekend was packed with a wide variety of artists ranging from classic stars to up-and-coming artists that are paving their way in the country music scene. Many fans came not only for the 4-day festival, but also the new addition of a pre-festival day on Wednesday with even more artists. As the afternoon progressed, the crowd started filling in creating a memorable crowd for not just the emerging artists, but the established performers as well. Blake Shelton at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 One of Windy City Smokeout’s greatest strengths is the variety of artists they bring to the lineup. Rather than focusing on a single style of country music, the festival brought together a lineup that showcased the genre’s full spectrum. With established mainstream artists like Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, Tyler Hubbard, George Birge, and Russell Dickerson in the lineup, fans poured in to see their sets. Treaty Oak Revival, Sterling Elsa, Hudson Westbrook, and Braxton Keith highlighted the sounds of red dirt and Texas country music. The traditional country sound was highlighted by Blake Shelton, Scotty McCrery, and Carter Faith, while the Southern Rock sound was brought by Hootie & The Blowfish, Ghost Hounds, and Karley Scott Collins. Americana folk country also drew in a big crowd with Vincent Mason, Mackenzie Carpenter, and Noeline Hofmann as well as alternative country with Blake Whiten, Chandler Walters, and Alexis Wilkens. This mix of genres is one of the reasons Windy City Smokeout continues to stand out among country music festivals—it appeals to longtime country fans while also welcoming listeners who enjoy rock, Americana, and crossover country sounds. Hudson Westbrook at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 While the lineup is the main draw, the festival also highlights some of the best BBQ pitmasters from around the country. Pitmasters from the Chicagoland area, as well as from various states such as Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Colorado, and Arkansas come together and share their wide variety of BBQ staples. Pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and chicken were just some of the meats that were provided throughout the 4-day festival with each pitmaster putting their own style to the meats. With the wide variety of products on each menu, Windy City Smokeout provided the crowd with anything they could want to try. They also provided venders that filled the booths along Rodeo Drive with experiences and last-minute festival items. With booths filled with merchandise, local boutiques, and Chicago native stores, fans were able to commemorate the weekend. Tyler Hubbard at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 What truly sets Windy City Smokeout apart, however, was the connections between the performers and the audience. Artists shared stories, thanked the crowd, signed autographs, took pictures, performed unreleased music, and even surprised the crowd with special guests. With Scotty McCreery bringing out Hootie & The Blowfish to perform their song together for the first time live, and Chandler Walters, Alexis Wilkens, and Vincent Mason hopping off the stage at the end of their performances to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures. The crowd responded with unwavering enthusiasm, singing along to every lyric, capturing every moment, and creating an authentic moment with other fans and the performers. Those interactions are what gave the festival its heart and created everlasting memories. Russell Dickerson at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 By the time the final notes struck across the grounds, Windy City Smokeout had done more than deliver a star-studded lineup—they created a destination. With a widescale crowded festival, authenticity can be difficult to find and create, but Smokeout succeeded by delivering a diverse lineup of performers, great pitmasters, and community spirit. Windy City Smokeout has established a must-attend live music experience for fans of all ages. Warren Zeiders at Windy City Smokeout, 2026 For additional information on Windy City Smokeout and events coming to the United Center, please visit: Windy City Smokeout: https://www.windycitysmokeout.com United Center: https://www.unitedcenter.com Image Gallery: Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Scotty McCreery | Josh Turner Sangamon County Fair | New Berlin, IL | Friday June 12th, 2026 at 7:30pm Josh Turner at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 Click here to scroll to image gallery The Sangamon County Fair welcomed country music fans for an evening that blended classic country tradition with modern chart-topping hits as Josh Turner and Scotty McCreery took the stage for a special dual-headlining performance. With Turner’s unmistakable deep baritone voice and McCreery’s contemporary country sound, the two artists delivered a show that appealed to multiple generations of country fans, creating a memorable night filled with singalongs, heartfelt storytelling, and plenty of country charm. Grayson Lilly, Shawn Bailey, Steve Nelson, and Paul Harrigill at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 The moment the band took the stage, the energy shifted awaiting the arrival of Josh Turner. He was born and raised in South Carolina before later moving to Nashville in 2001 to pursue his music. His career got a boost after making his debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage where he performed his song “Long Black Train.” Since then, Turner has released 10 studio albums dating to his most recent release in 2024 with This Country Music Thing. His defines his sound as a blend of new traditional country, bluegrass, and gospel. He believes that God doesn’t want him to be a gospel singer, but a Christian singer because that is who he is. Josh Turner at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 He launched into a set that contained some of his well-known classics as well as more current songs from his recent albums. Turner showcased his new traditional country sound throughout his set with hits from “Unsung Hero,” “Your Man,” and “Why Don’t We Just Dance.” While fans may have had to fight through the mushy ground, that didn’t stop them from dancing around and having fun. The band made sure to have fun as well, with fun dances and joking with each other throughout the performance. Vocally, Turner impressed the audience with his deep, rich baritone voice that captivated the crowd from the start. As Turner’s set came to a close, he returned to the stage for an encore of his signature hit “Long Black Train.” Scotty McCreery at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 With the crowd elated from Josh Turner’s performance, the audience now eagerly awaited the arrival of McCreery. He was born in North Carolina and rose to fame after winning the tenth season of American Idol. After winning the show in 2011, McCreery released his debut album later that year and has released 5 albums since then. With a blend of traditional country sounds, down-home storytelling, and honky-tonk elements, McCreery captivates his audience with his humble style. His songwriting covers many themes, such as faith, family, and nostalgia, which resonates with fans of all age groups all over the world. Scotty McCreery at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 From the moment the lights dimmed and McCreery stepped on stage, the energy skyrocketed as fans cheered. In his trademark black tee and boots, McCreery launched into a set that showcased his rich baritone vocals and his storytelling songs. He performed a wide variety of his own music including “Can’t Pass the Bar,” “Fall of Summer,” “Five More Minutes,” “Cab in a Solo,” and “Damn Strait.” McCreery is known to share stories about his songs throughout his set, which connects the crowd to him and his music. “This Is It” and “It Matters to Her” are two songs that resonate deeply for McCreery since they are about his wife, who he met when they were just five years old. McCreery’s band members were equally noticeable throughout the night with their tight harmonies and outstanding solos. While their musical talents shone bright, their personalities were evident as well, having fun with each other on stage and enjoying each other’s presence. As the show drew to a close, McCreery voided the idea of an encore performance and sang his last song of the night before leaving the stage. The fairgrounds energy sparked higher as the notes of “Bottle Rockets” began playing. Josh Turner, Paul Harrigill, and Grayson Lilly at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 The Sangamon County Fairgrounds provided an energetic backdrop for the performances with fans of all ages coming in from the carnival to enjoy a night of live country music. With the traditional country sound of both Turner and McCreery, families and groups of all ages came to enjoy a night with two generations of country music. The performance was a reminder of why both artists are shining bright in the music scene. With their raw storytelling and classic country musical elements, both McCreery and Turner are connecting with fans all over the world by staying true to themselves. Spence Peppard and Justin Ward at the Sangamon County Fair, 2026 For additional information on these artists and the Sangamon County Fair, please visit: Josh Turner- https://www.joshturner.com Scotty McCreery- https://www.scottymccreery.com/ Sangamon County Fair- https://www.sangcofair.com Image Gallery: Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske

Nate Smith | Josh Ross | Brandon Wisham Long Live Country Rock and Roll Tour | Old National Centre | Indianapolis, IN | Friday April 17th, 2026 at 8:30pm Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 Nate Smith didn’t ease into his Indianapolis headlining set—he stormed it. From the first note, the Long Live Country Rock and Roll Tour hit with a gritty, full-throttle energy that felt more like a statement than a show. Guitars roared, the crowd answered every lyric, and Smith’s raw, unmistakable vocals cut through it all, equal parts power and vulnerability. It wasn’t just another tour stop—it was a loud, unapologetic reminder that country rock is alive, restless, and louder than ever. Before Smith took the stage, Brandon Wisham and Josh Ross warmed up the crowd. Brandon Wisham at the Old National Centre, 2026 Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 Wisham is a 23-year-old singer/songwriter from Savannah, Georgia. He was the youngest of seven children and took up guitar as a child. As he grew up, Wisham began playing in local bars. At 19 he wrote his first song, “Pain Won’t Last,” which was recorded by Bailey Zimmerman and featured on his debut album. Zimmerman enlisted Wisham as support for his first headlining tour back in 2024. Since then, Wisham has been writing and recording his own music and touring with artists, such as Chase Matthew and Tyler Hubbard.  He shared with the crowd that he had his mom and aunt on FaceTime to watch his set since they do not get to attend many of his shows and the audience all said hello. He performed his songs “She’s Good,” “Back Together,” and “Tears in Her Tequila,” along with some covers including “When It Rains It Pours” by Luke Combs. Josh Ross at the Old National Centre, 2026 Josh Ross at the Old National Centre, 2026 Next up for the night was Josh Ross, who is a Canadian country music singer/songwriter who grew up listening to country and rock. He was a multi-sport athlete from a young age and pursued football when he went to college. Ross had dreams of playing in the Canadian Football League but elected to pursue a career in music after a few injuries and surgeries. With growing up around both rock and country music, Ross says one of his biggest musical influences is Steve Earle. He signed with The Core Entertainment and Universal Music Canada in 2022 and has opened for many artists, such as Bailey Zimmerman, Jordan Davis, and Nickelback. His first single to air on country radio in the US was “Single Again” which hit number one on the Canadian charts. Ross kicked off his set with his new single to country radio “Hate How You Look” followed by “Red Flag.” He then performed a melody of old rock and country songs before talking about and performing one of his first released songs “On a Different Night.”  “Ain’t Doing Jack,” “Trouble,” and “Drunk Right Now” were a few of the other original songs Ross performed before closing out his set with “Single Again.” Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 Before Smith took the stage, his crew began getting the stage ready and hung up a large banner across the whole stage. Smith is an American country singer from Paradise, California. After releasing his song “Wildfire’ in 2020 on TikTok, it went viral and he was able to sign a publishing deal with Sony. His social media presence helped him grow his career before landing his first major label record deal. Some of his musical influences are Tom Petty, Garth Brooks, and Fleetwood Mac. After moving to Nashville at age 23, Smith opened for artists such as Brett Eldredge and Eli Young Band. He later returned to his hometown in 2018, where is home burned down in the Butte County Camp Fire. He channeled his grief into his songwriting and wrote his breakout song “One of These Days” which gained traction and encouraged him to continue pursuing music. He has released two studio albums with his most recent being California Gold back in 2024. He released “Whiskey on You” as his first single to country radio, where it reached number one on the US Country Airplay Chart. Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 The crowd roared to life when the lights dimmed, and the hanging backdrop of Smith illuminated under the stage lights. As the music began, lights began moving and showing off the backdrop before it dropped, and Smith emerged. He kicked off his show with his new single “After Midnight” which was recorded with Tyler Hubbard. “Nobody Likes Your Girlfriend” and “LFG” were the next songs Smith performed for the crowd. Smith told the crowd that while he loves performing on stage for everyone, his favorite place to be is in the crowd. He then came off stage into the audience and performed “Whiskey on You” and a cover of “Beer Never Broke My Heart” by Luke Combs. Brandon Wisham at the Old National Centre, 2026 Nate Smith at the Old National Centre, 2026 After making his way back to the stage, Smith performed one of his new songs, “Break Up Like That,” which he wrote with HARDY and “Sleeve,” which he admits is one of his favorites that he has ever written. “Fix What You Didn’t Break,” “Which I Never Felt,” and “Bulletproof” are a few other songs Smith performed throughout his show. He then shared more about his life growing up in the small town of Paradise, California. When he moved to Nashville, he was working as a certified nurse’s assistant. He loves helping and caring for people. Smith was behind on payments and working to survive before he got his record deal with Sony. One of the first songs he ever put out was “Wreckage,” which he performed next in his set. Smith shared that before the tour started, he was asking

Bailey Zimmerman | Hudson Westbrook | Blake Whiten Different Night Same Rodeo Tour | Vibrant Arena | Moline, IL | Friday March 13th, 2026 at 7pm Bailey Zimmerman at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 A sold-out crowd and a home state stage made for the perfect combination when Bailey Zimmerman returned to his roots for a night that felt more like a celebration than just another stop on his tour. From the moment he stepped onstage, the energy in the room was undeniable as fans sang every word back to the Illinois native who has quickly become one of country music’s fastest-rising stars. Zimmerman delivered a performance that proved coming home can sometimes be the loudest and most unforgettable stop of all. Before Zimmerman took the stage, Blake Whiten and Hudson Westbrook came out to warm up the crowd. Blake Whiten at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 First up for the night was Blake Whiten. As rising country-rock singer-songwriter from a small town in South Carolina, Whiten is known for his emotive storytelling and gravelly vocals. He rose to fame in early 2021 on TikTok and Instagram with his acoustic covers. Whiten has created his sound with a blend of traditional country storytelling with modern country-rock. He performed a variety of his songs such as “Bet on That,” “Made for Goodbyes,” and “Rollin’ Stone,” capturing the crowd with his raw vocals. Hudson Westbrook at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 Hudson Westbrook at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 Hudson Westbrook was next to take the stage. As a Texas native, Westbrook was born and raised on a cattle farm and attended college at Texas Tech University. While working toward becoming a landman, he worked at a feed store. He began singing in high school but never felt he was good enough to have it become his career. After a TikTok of his debut single “Take It Slow” went viral, Westbrook dropped out of college to pursue a career in music. He released his first studio album in July of 2025 after releasing his first self-titled EP in January of 2025. Westbrook kicked off his set with “LMWYL” while the crowd cheered and sang along. “Funny Seeing You Here,” “Dressed Down,” and “Painted You Pretty” are a few other songs that were included in his setlist. Westbrook brought an electric energy to the crowd, where fans sang along to all his songs. He later closed out his set with “5 to 9” and “House Again,” which was his first single to country radio. Bailey Zimmerman at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 A curtain on the stage dropped as the stage lights shined bright, signaling the start of Bailey Zimmerman’s set. From the small town of Louisville, IL, Zimmerman began playing guitar at the age of nine. He devoted much of his childhood to playing baseball and riding dirt bikes. Prior to making music, Zimmerman worked in the meat packing industry, on a union gas pipeline and later he pursued a truck lift venture with his stepbrother’s welding business. In 2020, Zimmerman recorded himself singing a cover of “Stay” by Black Stone Cherry for social media to impress girls. The video became widely shared and he later began writing his own music and sharing it on social media. He signed to Core Entertainment in 2021. After three of his singles in 2022 hit the charts, Zimmerman was signed to Warner Music Nashville and Elektra Records. His first major level project Leave the Light On released in 2022, followed by two studio albums Religiously. The Album. in 2023 and Different Night Same Rodeo in 2025. After the album released, he announced his first ever arena tour, the Different Night Same Rodeo Tour, which goes through June 2026. Bailey Zimmerman at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 Bailey Zimmerman at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 The screen illuminated as smoke and fire lit up the stage while the band took their places, signifying Zimmerman’s appearance. Zimmerman emerged from the raised back section of the stage, launching high into the air and landing, while hyping up the crowd. A large rope was then lowered down, which he grabbed ahold and swung down like Tarzan to the main part of the center stage. He continued to run down the thrust while the band played and grabbed his microphone that was waiting for him at the end of the stage. He jumped right into his first song of the night which was “Backup Plan,” which was recorded as a duet with Luke Combs. He followed with “Never Comin’ Home” and “Lost.” After performing five songs, Zimmerman left the stage for an outfit change. Bailey Zimmerman at the Vibrant Arena, 2026 When he returned the stage, he read some of the audience’s signs. There was young fan in the audience who was celebrating their 12th birthday, so Zimmerman had the whole audience sing “Happy Birthday” to her. He then spent some time talking to the crowd about his time growing up. He acknowledged how he understands how hard it is to earn a living and he was so touched that people spent their hard-earned money on a concert ticket to see him. Through the support of the fans purchasing tickets and buying merchandise, Zimmerman, his band, and crew are able to travel all over the country and world to share his music. Selling out a show in his home state meant the world to him, especially as someone who came from a small town. He shared his advice for anyone who has a dream: keep working and fighting for it. Zimmerman then moved into singing “Get to Getting’ Gone” and the title track for his newest album “Comin’ in Cold.” “I grew up a lot like everybody here. I grew up with morals and values. You help your neighbor. You take your shirt off your back when you have to. You work your ass off for the things that you want and I’ll tell you Illinois, the hard work was so worth it. We are sold out tonight in

Meghan Patrick | Kolten Taylor Golden Child Tour | The Canopy Club | Urbana, IL | Friday February 27th, 2026 at 8pm Meghan Patrick and Nick Ryan at the Canopy Club, 2026 From the moment Meghan Patrick stepped onto the stage at The Canopy Club, the energy in the room shifted. Kicking off her Golden Child Tour with confidence and power, Patrick immediately had the crowd on its feet, singing along and matching her intensity. It wasn’t a slow build kind of night — it was loud, lively, and full of the bold spirit that defines her sound. Before Patrick took the stage, Kolton Taylor came out to warm up the crowd. Kolten Taylor at the Canopy Club, 2026 Kolten Taylor at the Canopy Club, 2026 Taylor’s sound is rooted in outlaw country, with a country and rock flare to his writing. He draws from his experience as a blue-collar worker and the world around him. He picked up a guitar while attending college in Champaign-Urbana, and his career kickstarted from there. Taylor captures the attention of his audience with his heartfelt and authentic lyrics that resonate deeply with them. He sang a variety of his own original songs such as “Good Time Bad,” “Gun Club Road,” and “Unwind” along with covers of “Must Be the Whiskey” by Cody Jenks and “My Baby Loves Me When I’m Stoned” by Jason Boland. Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 The band, who calls themselves the Eagle Kats, took the stage as the crowd cheered waiting Patrick’s arrival. Patrick is a Canadian American country singer-songwriter from Ontario. She is a published songwriter and has shared the stage with Lady A, Jon Pardi, Dwight Yoakam, and Kip Moore. Her third studio album Heart on My Glass was released in 2021 and was her debut American release. Later in 2023, Patrick made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage. She released her single “Golden Child” in 2024, which became her first charting entry in the US. Patrick has released 4 albums, two of which were released with Warner Music Canada and two with Riser House. Her most recent album Golden Child was released in the end of 2024, with the deluxe version releasing earlier this year. Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Patrick kicked off her set with “What Shoulder” and followed with “Whether You Love Me or Not” and “Stoned Alone.” “Project” and “Both Can Be True” were two more of the songs Patrick performed before moving into an acoustic set. She informed the crowd how she likes to include an acoustic set into her shows because it showcases the artist’s voice. She joked with the crowd that performing acoustic can really show if an artist is good enough or not. Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Before starting her acoustic set, Patrick acknowledged a fan in the crowd. He traveled from Puerto Rico to see her play at the Grand Ole Opry, but the show was unfortunately cancelled due to an ice storm that moved through Nashville. He came to her show the night prior at Carol’s Pub in Chicago and has been a fan for a while. In the meet and greet prior to the show, he requested for her to play an older song of hers and she was happy to perform for it him and the audience. She then began playing “Country Music Made Me Do It,” followed by “I Sure Hope So” and “Hold on Meg.” Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Following her acoustic set, Patrick introduced each of her band members and played a melody of different songs including “White Horse” by Chris Stapleton, “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin, and “Rock and Roll” by Led Zeppelin. During the melody of covers, Patrick played a Flying V electric guitar, which is not commonly seen in country music. She then slowed things down with “Safe Place to Break” before playing her first single in the US “Golden Child.” The band then began giving kazoos out to the crowd as Patrick began performing “Jessica, Jezebel.” About halfway through the song, Patrick came out into the audience playing a Kazoo Master and had the crowd participating along. Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 As the song ended, Patrick left the stage before coming back for an encore. She told the crowd this song was for the women in attendance and began playing “Just a Girl,” which is a cover from the band No Doubt. After the encore, Patrick told the audience she would be by her merchandise table and looked forward to meeting the fans who came over. While the show may have come to a close, fans were riding the golden high from the night of country music. Meghan Patrick and The Eagle Kats at the Canopy Club, 2026 For additional information on these artists and events at The Canopy Club, please visit: Meghan Patrick- https://www.meghanpatrickmusic.com Kolten Taylor- https://www.koltentaylormusic.com The Canopy Club- https://canopyclub.com Additional Images: Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Meghan Patrick at the Canopy Club, 2026 Photographs and writing by Jaclyn Duske