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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.

Features, News

Review: Maren Morris Delivers a Soulful RSVP Redux Tour Stop at The Sylvee

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Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Maren Morris brought her RSVP Redux Tour to The Sylvee in Madison last summer, and the sold-out Saturday night crowd was treated to a performance that blended fan favorites, unexpected covers, and thoughtful moments that highlighted her growth as an artist. The tour itself was framed as a celebration of the five-year anniversary of her breakout Girl album, but in practice it felt more like a reflection on how far she has come since then—both musically and personally.

From the moment she opened with “RSVP” and “The Feels,” Morris had the audience locked in. Her voice carried a soulful edge that, as critics have noted throughout the tour, often lands just shy of a twang—straddling the line between country, pop, and singer-songwriter authenticity. The Sylvee’s intimate yet energetic setting gave her plenty of room to play with that dynamic. Songs like “The Tree” and “I Hope I Never Fall in Love,” which she performed alongside opener Delacey, brought the night’s most vulnerable moments, while her hits “Girl” and “My Church” reminded fans of the anthems that first put her on the map.

The setlist was cleverly constructed to balance personal storytelling with crowd-pleasing highlights. By the midpoint, Morris loosened things up with “Rich,” where she made one of the most talked-about changes of the tour. Instead of the original lyric referencing Diddy, she swapped in Dolly, a decision she’s made since Combs’s legal troubles came to light. The Madison crowd immediately picked up on the switch, cheering the homage to Dolly Parton, a beloved and unproblematic country icon. It was a subtle but powerful statement, one that aligned with Morris’s reputation for standing her ground and rewriting narratives in real time.

Later, she leaned into fan service by taking social media requests for “Drunk Girls Don’t Cry” and “Circles Around This Town,” proving she could make the cavernous room feel personal. A cover of Generation X’s “Dancing With Myself” added a dose of playfulness, and when she closed the main set with “The Bones” and “Cut!,” the night’s emotional range was on full display. Her encore brought everything full circle with the pop-leaning “The Middle,” the breezy “Shade,” and the nostalgic “80s Mercedes,” leaving the crowd on a high note.

Throughout the evening, Morris’s performance carried a sense of reinvention. She has been open about her complicated relationship with mainstream country, and at The Sylvee she seemed to lean further into her identity as an artist not confined to one lane. The show was polished yet personal, activist-minded yet fun, and above all a reminder of her singular talent. For Madison fans, it was a night that felt celebratory, communal, and quietly historic—one that showed why Maren Morris remains one of the most compelling voices in music today.

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.

Concert Photos, Features, News

Check Out Our Favorite Moments from Weekend One of Summerfest 2024 with Kane Brown, Motley Crue & More

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Kane Brown headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater for opening night of Summerfest 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia).

Summerfest 2024 kicked off with a bang, bringing an incredible array of performances to Milwaukee’s lakeside. From electrifying headliners to rising stars, the first weekend was packed with memorable moments. Here are some of our highlights:

Kane Brown’s Country Charm

Kane Brown delivered a stellar performance at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater, blending his country roots with a modern flair that had the crowd singing along to every word. His set included hits like “Heaven” and “Good As You,” showcasing his smooth vocals and engaging stage presence. Brown’s ability to connect with the audience made his show one of the standout moments of the weekend.

Mötley Crüe’s Rock Spectacle

The legendary Mötley Crüe brought their high-energy rock show to the stage, complete with pyrotechnics and anthemic hits. Fans were treated to classics like “Kickstart My Heart” and “Dr. Feelgood,” and the band’s electrifying performance proved that they still know how to rock a crowd. The combination of their iconic sound and dynamic stage production made for an unforgettable experience.

David Kushner’s Intimate Performance

Emerging artist David Kushner captivated the audience with his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice. Performing on one of the more intimate stages, Kushner’s set was a refreshing contrast to the larger, high-energy shows. His honest songwriting and emotive delivery resonated deeply with fans, marking him as a talent to watch.

Gavin DeGraw’s Melodic Mastery

Gavin DeGraw brought his signature blend of pop-rock and soulful ballads to Summerfest, delighting fans with his piano-driven hits. Songs like “I Don’t Want to Be” and “Not Over You” highlighted his impressive vocal range and musicianship. DeGraw’s engaging performance and heartfelt connection with the audience made his set a highlight of the festival.

Goo Goo Dolls’ Nostalgic Hits

The Goo Goo Dolls took the crowd on a nostalgic journey with their timeless hits. Performing classics like “Iris” and “Slide,” the band showed that their music remains as powerful and relevant as ever. Their energetic performance and strong connection with the audience created a memorable atmosphere filled with sing-alongs and cherished memories.

Lily Rose’s Rising Star

Country artist Lily Rose delivered a standout performance, showcasing her powerful voice and relatable lyrics. Her performance was a perfect blend of traditional country with a modern twist, and songs like “Villain” and “Overnight Sensation” highlighted her potential as a rising star in the genre. Rose’s charismatic stage presence and genuine connection with fans made her set a must-see.

Bryce Vine’s Hip-Hop Vibes

Bryce Vine brought a burst of energy to the stage with his blend of hip-hop and pop. His catchy tracks and engaging performance style had the crowd dancing and singing along. Hits like “Drew Barrymore” and “La La Land” were crowd favorites, solidifying Vine’s reputation as a dynamic performer.

More Highlights

Beyond these headliners, the first weekend of Summerfest featured a diverse range of artists across multiple stages. The festival’s unique atmosphere, combining great music with stunning lakefront views, created an unforgettable experience for attendees. From the upbeat performances at the Generac Power Stage to the more relaxed vibes at the Johnsonville Summerville, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Summerfest 2024 has set the bar high with its first weekend, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the festival has in store. Whether you’re a fan of rock, country, hip-hop, or anything in between, Summerfest continues to be the ultimate destination for music lovers.

For more detailed schedules and information on upcoming performances, check out the official Summerfest website and check out our favorite highlights from opening weekend of Summerfest 2024 below.