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ACL Fest Weekend 2 Day 1 in Photos: Carin Leon, Leon Bridges, Dasha & More

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Carin Leon was just one of many top performances who helped kick off Day 1 of the second weekend of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

The second weekend of Austin City Limits Music Festival kicked off with a vibrant mix of genres, from synth-pop to country and rap, all set against the scenic backdrop of Zilker Park in Austin, TX. Day 1 brought fans unforgettable performances from a diverse lineup that spanned multiple stages, leaving festival-goers buzzing with excitement.

Here’s a look at some of the highlights from the day.

St. Lucia ACL fans enjoyed the electrifying sounds of St. Lucia, whose synth-pop anthems brought a nostalgic ’80s vibe to the stage. Their lively performance, complete with shimmering synths and vibrant energy, set a joyous tone for the day. Fans swayed to the beat of their hits like “Elevate,” with the Austin sun setting the perfect scene.

Whookilledkenny Rising Texas hip-hop artist Whookilledkenny kept things fresh with a high-energy performance at the BMI stage that resonated with the crowd. The energetic rapper delivered rapid-fire bars and bass-heavy beats that had fans jumping along throughout the set, a perfect representation of the homegrown talent featured at ACL this year.

Leon Bridges Singer-songwriter Leon Bridges took the crowd on a soulful journey. His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, especially on hits like “River” and “Texas Sun,” had the audience mesmerized. Bridges, a Texas native, gave a nod to his roots and had everyone swaying to his throwback sound that blends classic soul with a modern twist.

Dasha In a full circle moment, Dasha brought her unique blend of pop and country to the festival, captivating attendees with tracks like “Nervous” and “Talk” and of course her massive single “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’)”. Her emotive performance stood out, showcasing her talent as one of the many emerging artists at ACL 2024.

Carin Leon For fans of Latin music, Carin Leon provided a dynamic performance. His fusion of regional Mexican sounds with modern influences had the crowd dancing and singing along, particularly during his popular track “Me La Avente.” It was a standout set that celebrated the diverse musical cultures represented at ACL.

Jeezy Rap icon Jeezy brought the heat with a hard-hitting performance that included fan-favorites like “Put On” and “Soul Survivor.” His presence on stage was commanding, delivering hit after hit to an energized crowd that rapped along to every word. ACL 2024 proved once again that hip-hop continues to have a strong presence at the festival.

Chris Stapleton with Special Guest Willie Nelson The headlining act of the night, Chris Stapleton, gave a show-stopping performance that was the perfect cap to Day 1. With his signature gravelly voice and expert guitar work, Stapleton belted out hits like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “White Horse.” The highlight of the night, though, came when country legend Willie Nelson made a surprise appearance to kick off the set. It was a magical moment that left fans in awe and exemplified the kind of surprises ACL is known for.

Day 1 of Weekend 2 was just the beginning of another thrilling Austin City Limits weekend, promising more unforgettable performances to come. Stay tuned for more highlights as the festival continues to rock Zilker Park and check out our favorite photos from yesterday’s performances below.

Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Concert Photos, Features, News

Photos: Willie Nelson Joins Chris Stapleton for Unforgettable ACL Fest Performance

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Chris Stapleton surprised fans by bringing out Willie Nelson to open his headlining performance at Weekend 2 of the Austin City Limits Music Festival on Friday night (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Fans at Austin City Limits were in for a treat on the first day of Weekend 2 when country legends Chris Stapleton and Willie Nelson kicked off the night with a surprise collaboration for Stapleton’s Friday night performance. As Stapleton took the stage on the American Express stage, he was joined by Austin music legend, Willie Nelson, a fitting homage to Nelson’s deep ties to the “Austin City Limits” brand. Together, they sat on benches with their guitars, surrounded by Stapleton’s band, and performed two iconic Willie Nelson tracks: “Whiskey River” and “Bloody Mary Morning.”

This unexpected duet held extra significance as Nelson, now 91, is in Austin celebrating the 50th anniversary of his debut on the “Austin City Limits” television show, a historic moment in both his career and the city’s music scene. The performance gave fans a heartfelt connection between the past and present of country music, with Nelson’s timeless voice and Stapleton’s rich vocals blending seamlessly.

After Nelson’s departure, Stapleton continued to electrify the crowd with a setlist full of fan favorites, including hits like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “White Horse.” From start to finish it was a stellar and memorable performance that paid tribute to both Nelson’s legacy and Stapleton’s own status as one of country music’s current heavyweights. The opening collaboration was a perfect encapsulation of ACL Fest’s rich tradition of showcasing the best in live music.

For anyone in the crowd, this was a rare and special moment, one that highlighted both the enduring legacy of Willie Nelson and the magnetic presence of Chris Stapleton as a modern country icon. Together, they set the tone for what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of ACL’s standout performances this year.

Check out our photos from the epic collaboration below.

Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Concert Photos, News

Review: Kacey Musgraves Takes Fans to New Heights in Chicago for Deeper Well World Tour

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BY DAN GARCIA

Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves levitates into the air during a memorable opening to her Chicago performance at the Allstate Arena on September 12, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

“High Horse” singer Kacey Musgraves rode into Rosemont, Illinois last night with her unmistakable charisma, leaving fans at the Allstate Arena thoroughly charmed. On tour supporting her 2024 album Deeper Well, the country-pop queen managed to sprinkle in her signature humor, levitate (yes, you read that right), and dish on Chicago’s finest foods—all while delivering one of the most memorable sets of the year.

For the somehow uninitiated, Musgraves is a genre-defying singer-songwriter whose rise to stardom was kickstarted by her 2013 breakout hit Follow Your Arrow. Since then, she’s collected a slew of Grammy Awards, melted hearts with her ethereal 2018 album Golden Hour, one of the most complete and perfect LPs, and is now back with Deeper Well, a project that dives into emotional depths with as much honesty as her fans have come to love.

Cardinal Takes Flight

Musgraves opened her 20-song set with “Cardinal,” and, no big deal, casually levitated toward the stars (and somehow without any visible wires). As her video backdrop displayed a stunning starry night, the “Star-Crossed” singer gave us another reason to believe she might actually be otherworldly. The crowd went wild, though to be fair, flying isn’t even the most impressive thing she did—her vocals and songwriting might still take the cake there.

A & B, Plus a Little S-Z-A Midway through the set, Musgraves made her way to a B-stage in the middle of the general admission floor, giving fans a closer look (some maybe a little too close). Decked out in a low-cut dress, she joked, “I’m pretty sure some of you behind me can see my butt cheeks, I should have charged y’all extra.” It was this blend of wit and warmth that made her set feel intimate, even in the massive arena.

On the B-stage, she stripped things down with heartfelt performances of Follow Your Arrow, Family Is Family, The Architect, and a surprise cover of SZA’s Kill Bill. The latter was made even more special when she brought out her tour’s opening act, Nickel Creek, to join her. It’s not every day you hear a country star tackle a moody R&B revenge anthem, but leave it to Musgraves to pull it off.

Deep Well and Deeper Dish In between songs, Musgraves made sure to give some love to Chicago’s famous food. Craving for a Chicago style hot dog and some Pequod’s Pizza, the “Deeper Well” singer told the crowd “that s***t’s deep”, speaking on the deep dish pizza. The humor continued, a signature trait of hers, even when she delivered emotionally charged songs like Golden Hour. For instance, in the final moments of that track, she cheekily swapped out the words “golden hour” for “golden shower,” much to the crowd’s delight.

Confirmed Chappell Stan One of the night’s best moments came near the end when she followed a beautiful cover of Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club with her chart-topping anthem High Horse. Watching Musgraves transition from a sultry ballad to the upbeat, disco-infused hit had the entire arena up on their feet, dancing like it was a Friday night at Chappell’s now famous fictional club.

No Encore, But Maybe? Musgraves closed out her set with Deeper Well and Rainbow, though she hilariously admitted she wouldn’t call it an encore because they’re too planned. “But,” she quipped, “it’d be funny if I came out after anyway, right?” While she didn’t do a second appearance, her humor kept the vibe light, leaving everyone with the perfect mix of emotions as the night drew to a close.

From the incredible production (including that mind-boggling levitation) to the stripped-down B-stage moments, Kacey Musgraves’ performance felt like a journey—one that was as deep as a well and as high as a horse. And if you missed it, well, next time she rolls into town, you might want to follow your arrow straight to the box office.

Concert Photos, Features, News

Photos: Jelly Roll and Hardy Deliver at Night 1 of Harley Davidson Homecoming

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Jelly Roll shows off his Harley Davidson swag at the Harley Davidson Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee, WI on July 26, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia).

The Harley Davidson Homecoming festival roared into Milwaukee this weekend, and while the festivities technically kicked off on Thursday, it was Friday night that truly marked the beginning of the musical celebration. Veterans Park, set against the picturesque backdrop of Milwaukee’s lakefront, was transformed into a haven for music lovers and Harley enthusiasts alike.

Headlining the night were two powerhouse performers: Hardy and Jelly Roll. Hardy took to the main stage at 7:30 PM, delivering a 75-minute set that was nothing short of spectacular. His blend of country rock anthems had the crowd on their feet from the first chord, proving that he is a headliner in every sense of the word. His energy was infectious, and his performance set the tone for an unforgettable night.

Following Hardy’s explosive set, Jelly Roll took the stage and continued to elevate the night. His performance was not only musically impressive but emotionally resonant, as he connected with the audience on a deeper level. The crowd, estimated at around 40,000, was a mix of die-hard fans and loyal Harley riders who had journeyed from across the country to be part of this iconic event.

The highlight of Jelly Roll’s performance was undoubtedly the surprise appearance of Machine Gun Kelly. Together, they performed their brand new song “Lonely Road” for the first time ever live, sending the audience into a frenzy. The collaboration was a perfect fusion of their styles, and the debut of “Lonely Road” added an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying night.

The Harley Davidson Homecoming festival is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community, freedom, and the open road. The camaraderie among the Harley riders and the shared love for music created a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.

As the night came to a close, it was clear that this year’s Homecoming festival had set a high bar for the rest of the weekend. With performances like these, Milwaukee’s lakefront has become the ultimate destination for music fans and motorcycle enthusiasts. If Friday night was any indication, the rest of the festival promises to be a ride worth taking.

Check out our photos from Friday night of the Harley Davidson Homecoming festival below!

Concert Photos, Features, News

Country Thunder Wisconsin 2024 in Photos: Lainey Wilson, Nickelback & More

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Lainey Wilson headlines Night 2 of Country Thunder Wisconsin in Twin Lakes, WI on July 19, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Country music fans were in for a treat this weekend, as the Country Thunder music festival returned to Twin Lakes, Wisconsin for another extended weekend of live music, this time with one of the most diverse lineups that the festival has seen in years. Despite a last minute cancellation from Thursday headliner Koe Wetzel, due to illness, the headliners of Lainey Wilson, Eric Church and Nickelback all delivered amazing sets.

In addition to the diverse cast of headliners, supporting acts like Bailee Zimmerman and Kip Moore (to name a few) also delivered performances that fans won’t soon forget. So of course we had to travel down to Twin Lakes to capture some of the standout moments.

Check out our photos from this year’s Country Thunder Wisconsin below!

Concert Photos, Features, News

Review: Carrie Underwood Headlines Final Night of Chicago’s “Windy City Smokeout”

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Carrie Underwood headlines Windy City Smokeout 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Carrie Underwood’s performance at the Windy City Smokeout was the perfect capstone to the festival’s four-day BBQ and country music extravaganza. Despite weather forecasts threatening to rain on her parade, the organizers wisely moved her set an hour earlier, and as if by divine intervention, the skies opened up shortly after her final note, making the earlier slot a brilliant decision.

The festival, held in the United Center parking lot, is renowned for its blend of mouth-watering BBQ from across the nation and stellar musical performances. Underwood’s Sunday night show did not disappoint. Kicking off her set with the powerful “Church Bells,” the crowd was immediately hooked, even despite some early sound issues. This was followed by the high-energy “Undo It” and the sultry “Cowboy Casanova,” keeping the momentum going strong.

Underwood performed 21 songs in total, a tour de force that included fan favorites and a surprising cover of Guns N’ Roses’ “Paradise City,” showcasing her versatility and homage to rock ‘n’ roll. Her encore, “Before He Cheats,” had everyone singing along, a fitting end to a captivating performance.

Nate Smith warmed up the crowd with an impressive supporting act, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable night. The festival, known not just for its music but also for its delectable BBQ, saw vendors from all over the country offering a variety of smoky, savory delights that paired perfectly with the tunes.

Underwood’s performance was not just a highlight of the night but a highlight of the entire festival. She took us on a journey through her discography, each song hitting the right notes with the crowd. As the final chords played and the crowd roared, it was clear – nobody in attendance would be “Undoing” this night from their memories anytime soon.

Her full setlist for the evening can be found here, a testament to her incredible range and talent. Carrie Underwood proved once again why she’s a staple in country music and why the Windy City Smokeout is a must-attend festival for music lovers and foodies alike.

Check out our photos from the fourth and final night of Windy City Smokeout below!

Nate Smith

Carrie Underwood

Concert Photos, Features, News

Review: Thomas Rhett and Chase Rice Shine at Windy City Smokeout’s Opening Night

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Thomas Rhett performs at opening night of 2024’s Windy City Smokeout in Chicago, IL (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Thomas Rhett kicked off the Windy City Smokeout’s Thursday opening night with an unforgettable performance that set the tone for the four-day festival. As the first notes of “Vacation” filled the United Center parking lot, the crowd erupted in cheers, eager to start their musical journey with one of country music’s biggest stars.

Rhett’s infectious energy was evident from the beginning, captivating the audience and ensuring that everyone was in for a night of pure entertainment. Rhett continued to delight fans with “Look What God Gave Her,” a track that showcased his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies.

The song’s upbeat rhythm had the crowd dancing and singing along, creating a joyous atmosphere that permeated the festival grounds. With each song, Rhett demonstrated why he remains a fan favorite, seamlessly blending old hits with newer tracks. The night truly hit its stride with “Beer Can’t Fix,” a lighthearted anthem that perfectly complemented the festival’s renowned BBQ and beer offerings. As attendees enjoyed the diverse culinary delights from vendors across the country, Rhett’s performance provided the ideal soundtrack, enhancing the overall festival experience. The smell of smoky BBQ, coupled with the lively music, created a sensory feast that attendees won’t soon forget.

One of the evening’s highlights was Chase Rice’s performance just before Rhett took the stage. Rice not only delivered an outstanding set but also won the hearts of the crowd by bringing his dog, Jack, on stage. This heartwarming moment set the stage for the night’s camaraderie and fun. The surprise duet of “Friends in Low Places” between Rhett and Rice during the night’s headlining set was a standout moment, showcasing their chemistry and delighting the audience with an unexpected collaboration.

Rhett’s set list, spanning 15 songs, was a testament to his versatility as an artist. Each track, from high-energy anthems to soulful ballads, was met with enthusiastic responses from the crowd. The highlight of the night came during the encore, where Rhett performed “Die A Happy Man” and “T-Shirt.” These fan-favorite tracks had the entire audience singing along, creating a powerful, shared experience that capped off an incredible night.

The Windy City Smokeout, known for its blend of top-tier country music and exceptional food, lived up to its reputation. The United Center parking lot proved to be an ideal venue, offering ample space for the large crowd while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The festival’s unique combination of music and culinary excellence made for an unforgettable experience, one that was perfectly complemented by Rhett’s charismatic performance.

Thomas Rhett’s opening night performance at Windy City Smokeout was a masterclass in live entertainment. His ability to connect with the audience, coupled with his impressive set list and the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, made for a night that attendees will remember for years to come. If this performance is any indication, the rest of the festival promises to be just as spectacular.

Check out our photos from opening night of the Windy City Smokeout below!

Chase Rice

Thomas Rhett

Concert Photos, Features, News

Photos: Summerfest 2024 Closes Out with Performances from Lil Uzi Vert, Ivan Cornejo, Neon Trees & More

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And just like that, Summerfest 2024 came to a close last night. With another impressive and diverse lineup of artists, new and old, and a headlining show with a cast of the biggest rappers out, you couldn’t have dreamt a better way to close out Milwaukee’s premiere lakefront music festival.

From Lil Uzi Vert and Lil Yachty to Neon Trees and Ivan Cornejo, Saturday night had something for everyone, and from the looks out the crowd it was also one of the busiest days of the entire festival. So of course we had to be there to capture some of the standout moments from the entire day.

Check our our photos from the ninth and final day of Summerfest 2024 below!

Concert Photos, Features, News

Review: AJR Brings The Maybe Man Tour to Milwaukee’s American Family Insurance Amphitheater

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AJR headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI on July 4, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Summerfest’s American Family Insurance Amphitheater buzzed with excitement as AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen, and MXMTOON took the stage for a night of unforgettable performances. The amphitheater, packed with a lively mix of young adults and families, resonated with anticipation and enthusiasm.

AJR kicked off the night with their energetic opener “Maybe Man,” followed by crowd favorites “Sober Up” and “Yes I’m A Mess.” The atmosphere was electric, with the audience singing along and dancing to every beat. The band’s signature humor and engaging stage presence made the performance not just a concert, but a full-on entertainment experience.

One of the highlights of the evening was when AJR performed “World’s Smallest Violin” amidst the crowd, creating an intimate and memorable moment for everyone present. Their connection with the audience was palpable, making the large venue feel surprisingly personal.

Carly Rae Jepsen, a special addition to the show, brought an extra layer of excitement. Though not currently touring with AJR, her performance was a delightful bonus for the fans. Her infectious energy and hit songs kept the crowd buzzing, adding to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.

MXMTOON, touring with AJR, opened the night with a charming set that perfectly set the tone for the evening. Her relatable lyrics and soothing voice were a hit, especially with the younger audience members.

The emotional peak of the night came with AJR’s performance of “God Is Really Real,” a touching tribute to their late father, whose health had forced the band to cancel their Summerfest performances the previous year. The heartfelt rendition added a poignant layer to the otherwise high-energy set, showcasing the band’s versatility and depth.

The night concluded with an encore that included “Weak” and “2085,” leaving the audience on a high note. The Maybe Man Tour has certainly been a journey worth following, and AJR’s performance at Summerfest solidified their status as one of the most entertaining acts around.

Summerfest continues to be a hub of musical excellence, and with performances like these, it’s clear why. AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen, and MXMTOON delivered a night of music, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

  • AJR headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI on July 4, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Concert Photos, Features, News

Bryson Tiller Performs at Summerfest’s BMO Harris Pavillion in Milwaukee

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Bryson Tiller performs at the BMO Harris Pavillion in Milwaukee, WI on July 5, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

On the 8th day of Summerfest, Bryson Tiller took the stage at the BMO Harris Pavilion, delivering an unforgettable performance. With Lake Michigan as a stunning backdrop, Tiller captivated fans with his soulful melodies and high-energy anthems. From his grand entrance to his engaging interaction with the audience, Tiller’s charisma and stage presence ensured that this performance would be remembered for years to come.

Fans were on their feet, singing along to every word, creating an electric atmosphere that perfectly complemented the summer night. One standout moment was when Tiller picked up a guitar for an acoustic rendition of one of his hits, showcasing his versatility as an artist. For those who missed it, the photos below capture just a glimpse of the magic that unfolded on the lakefront that night.

Check our our photos from Bryson Tiller’s Friday night performance below.