BY TER STAFF
Country music star, Kelsea Ballerini, graced the stage at The Rave in Milwaukee with a dynamic performance that showcased her impressive range and undeniable stage presence. Following a string of high-profile appearances, including a stint on Saturday Night Live and the season premiere of NBC’s “That’s My Jam,” Ballerini arrived in Milwaukee on Saturday to headline her biggest headlining show in Wisconsin to date. Her loyal Milwaukee fans eagerly awaited her arrival, and she certainly did not disappoint.
Ballerini brought her A-game to the stage, exuding confidence and charisma with every step. Her setlist featured a mix of hits and B-sides, as well as cuts from her latest LP, that kept the energy high and the audience engaged. She effortlessly owned the stage, delivering each song with a sense of urgency and authenticity that left the crowd wanting more.
The hour and a half performance was a testament to Ballerini’s growth as a performer and songwriter. The Knoxville native has been a regular visitor to Milwaukee during her career, from her memorable performance at the beautiful Riverside Theater to her most recent visit, warming the stage for the Jonas Brothers at Summerfest.
Ballerini’s Heartfirst Tour promotes last fall’s “Subject To Change” album, which arrived a few weeks before her divorce from fellow country singer Morgan Evans. The “Miss Me More” singer’s setlist included deep emotions and empowering messages that resonated with the audience. Her top performances of the night included “hole in a bottle,” “Peter Pan,” and the title track from latest album, “Subject To Change.”
During “Homecoming Queen?,” Ballerini invited opening act Georgia Webster to join her on stage for an acoustic guitar duet. Webster’s voice, while very different than Ballerini’s, complemented her in a memorable way.
Ballerini’s relationship with her fans was a highlight of the night. She made her way to the edge of the stage’s runway throughout the concert, traveling from stage left to stage right, taking selfies, signing autographs, and overall just connecting with her fans.
The concert was only the fifth stop on the recent North American leg of Ballerini’s tour, and the set has already found it’s rythm. With a performance as great and energetic as the one she delivered in Milwaukee, it’s hard to imagine what she could improve. Ballerini is a gem in country music, and her Heartfirst Tour is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.
SET LIST
Subject To Change
The Little Things
Heartfirst
Love Me Like You Mean It / Dibs / Yeah Boy
Love Is A Cowboy / Cowboy Take Me Away
half of my hometown
If You Go Down
hole in a bottle
You’re Drunk, Go Home
Homecoming Queen (w/ Georgia Webster)
Mountain With a View
Weather
Penthouse
Blindsided
Peter Pan
I Guess They Call It Fallin’
Leave Me Again
Muscle Memory
Miss Me More
Doin’ My Best
The Early Registration 