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.
Gracie Abrams during her headlining Chicago debut at the Metro on February 8, 2022 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Gracie Abrams’ Secret of Us tour stop at the Aragon Ballroom last night felt like a triumphant return. Abrams, who had previously opened for Olivia Rodrigo on the very same stage during the Sour Tour, and who had just first performed in the Windy City a couple years ago, a few blocks away, returned to Chicago, this time to a packed, sold-out crowd. With nearly five times the number of fans compared to her 2022 performance at The Metro, and likely the ability to sell out last night’s venue another five times over (or perhaps more), Gracie’s star power has clearly skyrocketed. Early in the show, she paused to reminisce about her intimate Metro performance, calling it one of her favorite shows of all time and reflecting on how surreal it was to now fill a space as large as the Aragon Ballroom.
“Welcome to The Secret of Us Tour. I don’t know if any of you were at our show at The Metro, that was one of my favorite shows of all time! To be here is unbelievable.”
As she welcomed the audience, the love in the room was palpable. Fans wearing Gracie’s signature bows filled the venue, showcasing the deep connection she has with her supporters. The room was so electric that, at times, the audience’s collective voice overpowered Gracie herself—a testament to how deeply her music resonates with her listeners.
Opening with “Felt Good About You,” Gracie set the tone for an evening of vulnerable storytelling and catharsis. Tracks like “Risk,” “Mess It Up,” and “Blowing Smoke” were delivered with the emotional depth that has become Abrams’ hallmark, and the crowd responded with equal fervor. During “21” and “I Miss You, I’m Sorry,” it was almost impossible not to feel the weight of each lyric as the room sang along in perfect harmony.
In addition to her familiar hits, Gracie treated fans to a special surprise with the performance of an unreleased track called “Cool,” which she announced would be included on the deluxe version of The Secret of Us, set to be released next month. The excitement in the crowd reached a fever pitch as she shared this news, further solidifying the deep bond between Abrams and her fans.
Gracie also took time to spotlight her opening act, Role Model (Tucker Pillsbury), expressing how much his music has meant to her over the years. She had the crowd shout “Love you, Tucker” so he could hear their admiration from backstage. Although some fans missed parts of Role Model’s set, due to long lines to get in and the show starting a half-an-hour early, the Los Angeles-native performed a great opening 8-track set, including songs like “Deeply Still in Love”, “Writing’s on the Wall” and “Scumbag”.
Though the evening was full of emotional highs, Gracie made sure to take a moment to discuss something heavier—politics. Partnering with organizations like HeadCount and Planned Parenthood on her tour, Abrams used her platform to encourage fans to vote, citing the upcoming election as one of the most crucial moments of our time.
“In my opinion, true democracy equals freedom, freedom to control your body, the freedom to read books that expand your mind, the freedom to love who you love, the freedom to take care of your neighbors. We need to decide if we are going to control our own destiny or let a bunch of men who do not share our values to do that for us.”
Abrams rallied the sold-out crowd to take control of their destinies rather than letting those with differing values decide for them. Her passion for activism was evident, and her message resonated with a crowd that came for the music but left with much more.
Gracie Abrams’ return to Chicago was nothing short of magical. The singer-songwriter has transformed from the emerging act and opener we saw a couple of years ago into a headliner who commands every corner of the stage. From her heartfelt music to her open conversations about activism, Abrams proves she’s not just a performer but a force of nature. With the Secret of Us tour continuing to pack venues and a deluxe album on the way, Gracie’s rise shows no signs of stopping and the Aragon will likely be the most “intimate” venue you’ll be able to see her perform at as her current tour could have sold-out arenas across the country. Her performance at the Aragon Ballroom was unforgettable, leaving no doubt that she’s one of the most captivating voices in music today.
SETLIST
Felt Good About You
Risk
Blowing Smoke
21
I Love You, I’m Sorry
Where Do We Go Now?
Gave You I Gave You I
Mess It Up
Full Machine
Cool (Live debut; from upcoming The Secret of Us deluxe)
Glass Animals performing at the Moody Center on Sunday, September 22, 2024 (Photo by Camryn Hutchens/The Early Registration).
Glass Animals’ Tour of Earth landed in Austin last night, and it was as if the Moody Center had been transformed into a cosmic voyage through space, soundtracked by the band’s signature indie-electronic vibes. The UK-based quartet took the audience on an interstellar journey with a space-themed production, complete with futuristic visuals that made you feel like you were floating somewhere between Mars and “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” (a setlist highlight).
For those not familiar with Glass Animals, they’re known for their dreamy, genre-bending sound. Fronted by Dave Bayley, the group has been steadily rising in the indie scene since their 2014 debut ZABA. But their breakout hit, Heat Waves, from the 2020 album Dreamland, was the moment they really broke orbit, topping charts worldwide and cementing them as festival headliners. Last night’s performance of Heat Waves felt like the emotional zenith of the show, with the crowd lighting up the arena like stars in the night sky.
The setlist was a balanced mix of their old and new work, kicking off with Life Itself and moving through favorites like Gooey and Pork Soda. A personal favorite was the track Your Love (Déjà Vu), which had the crowd vibing along, possibly experiencing a bit of musical déjà vu themselves. The band also dove into newer material, with songs like A Tear in Space (Airlock) and Lost in the Ocean, which were well-received by the Austin crowd.
The cosmic theme was brought to life not just by the music but through the stunning visuals that accompanied each song. Neon lights, swirling galaxies, and even space creatures (yes, really) filled the massive screens, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that made you feel like you’d been beamed up from Earth. It was a visual feast that enhanced the already hypnotic beats.
Of course, no Glass Animals show is complete without a sense of playfulness, and last night was no different. Bayley’s infectious energy had the crowd in the palm of his hand, especially during Tokyo Drifting and Take a Slice. The whimsical energy was dialed up to 11 during Pork Soda, with its unforgettable “pineapples are in my head” refrain echoing throughout the venue, leaving everyone with a smile.
All in all, Glass Animals delivered an out-of-this-world performance that had Austin floating on a cloud of synths and euphoria. If the Tour of Earth is passing through your town, strap in—it’s a wild ride through space and sound that you won’t want to miss!
Check out of photos from photographer Camryn Hutchens below!
If you thought Friday night at the iHeartRadio Music Festival was a wild ride, Saturday night took things to a whole new level. With a lineup that stretched from country superstar Keith Urban to pop sensation Doja Cat, and closing out with The Weeknd’s electrifying performance, it was like playing every card in the deck—and winning big every time. The second night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas had something for every music lover, from the nostalgic beats of New Kids On the Block to the heart-wrenching soul of Hozier. And with special guests and surprise debuts, this show turned out to be a sure bet.
With performances that felt like hitting the jackpot time and time again, the energy in the crowd was electric from the moment New Kids On the Block helped kick things off. The night featured everything from intimate acoustic moments to high-octane pop anthems, and every artist brought their A-game. Las Vegas may be known for its blinding lights and high stakes, but the real magic on Saturday was inside the arena, where music reigned supreme.
New Kids On the Block: And a Nostalgic Crossover
Opening night two was none other than the boy band legends themselves, New Kids On the Block. Decked out in classic ‘90s swagger, they took the crowd on a trip down memory lane with “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” and “Step by Step.” But the real surprise hand came when they brought out Flavor Flav to join them for an unexpected mash-up of “Hangin’ Tough” and Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” It was the perfect mix of nostalgia and Vegas-style showmanship, and the crowd ate it up. For fans of the old school, this was the moment they had been betting on.
Big Sean Represents for the Rappers
Next up was Big Sean, and he didn’t come to play—well, not just to play. Sean tore through a high-energy set that included the live debut of “It Is What It Is” and classics like “Mercy” and “Bounce Back.” Dressed in black leather over a white tee, Sean looked every bit the rap star, and the crowd couldn’t get enough when he dropped “I Don’t F*ck With You.” His performance was as entertaining as ever, reminding everyone that Big Sean’s always a Big Deal when it comes to live performances.
Keith Urban Gives Vegas some Country Sounds
Keith Urban brought his signature mix of country and rock to the stage, opening with “Straight Line.” Dressed in black pants and a red plaid shirt, Urban reminded everyone that country can hold its own in a festival lineup packed with pop and hip-hop stars. “Blue Ain’t Your Color” had the crowd swaying, while “Wasted Time” brought the energy right back up. Urban’s guitar skills were on full display, and he played every note like it was a winning hand.
Victoria Monét: Pure R&B Gold
Victoria Monét made her iHeartRadio debut with a performance that was pure gold. Opening with “Alright,” she delivered an effortlessly smooth R&B set that included crowd favorites like “Ass Like That” and the sultry “Jaguar.” Monét commanded the stage with elegance and swagger, and when she closed out with “On My Mama,” the audience was right there with her. Her performance was a slow burn, building the energy perfectly for the artists to follow.
Chris Martin: Acoustic Heartstrings
Chris Martin’s set brought the crowd to a quiet, intimate place with acoustic versions of Coldplay classics like “A Sky Full of Stars” and “Viva la Vida.” Performing in his signature understated style, Martin reminded the audience why his songs are the soundtrack to so many lives. In a surprise moment, he brought out Elyanna to join him on the track “We Pray,” adding an extra layer of magic to an already stellar set. For a moment, it felt like we were all gathered around a campfire, listening to stories told through song.
Hozier: Soulful and Soaring
Hozier followed with a hauntingly beautiful set that included “Nobody’s Soldier,” “Work Song,” and, of course, his massive hit “Take Me to Church.” Dressed in an all-grey suit, Hozier looked like a man who had wandered straight out of a dream, and his voice matched that vibe perfectly. His performance was a masterclass in soulful vulnerability, making everyone in the crowd feel like they were part of something deeply intimate—even in an arena of thousands.
Halsey: Fiery and Fearless
Halsey, fresh off her engagement to Avan Jogia, hit the stage with fire and passion—and red hair to match. She opened with “Nightmare” and powered through hits like “Without Me” and “Closer.” Dressed in a dress shirt, suspenders, and pants, Halsey looked fierce and fearless, delivering every song with the intensity she’s known for. The raw emotion of “You Should Be Safe” hit hard, but she quickly flipped the energy back up with her closing track, “Ego.” Halsey doesn’t hold back, and Saturday night was no exception.
Doja Cat Delivers
Doja Cat scratched her way to the top with a high-energy set that kept everyone on their feet. She opened with the “WYM Freestyle” before launching into “Demons” and fan-favorite “Say So.” In a white tank top and gray pants, Doja kept it simple—but her performance was anything but. “Agora Hills” had the crowd hyped, and by the time she finished with “Paint the Town Red,” it was clear she had solidified her status as a pop powerhouse. Every move, every beat—Doja Cat owned the night.
The Weeknd: Full Production, Full Perfection
Closing out night two was none other than The Weeknd, and if you thought his performance was just going to be a few songs and done, think again. The full production set featured about 50 dancers, perfectly complementing his stage presence. He opened with his new single “Dancing in the Flames” and kept the energy high with “Take My Breath” and “Blinding Lights.” When he closed with “Dancing in the Flames” again—this time the full version—it felt like he had taken the crowd through a journey and brought them back again. It was the perfect final act for a night that had already seen so many highlights.
And That’s a Wrap
Night two of the iHeartRadio Music Festival was everything fans could have hoped for and more. With a lineup that delivered hit after hit, it was a fitting end to an unforgettable weekend. From The Weeknd’s fiery finale to Keith Urban’s country-rock swagger, there was something for everyone. Here’s to another jackpot weekend of music magic in Las Vegas!
Dua Lipa performs at the United Center in Chicago, IL on March 9, 2022 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
In a city where the stakes are high, and dreams can come true with the roll of the dice, the iHeartRadio Music Festival rolled back into Las Vegas for another unforgettable weekend. Known for bringing together some of the biggest names in music across all genres, the annual festival transforms the T-Mobile Arena into a music playground where pop stars, rock legends, and country crooners all share the same stage. It’s not just about the performances, it’s about the experience, and there’s no better place to have it than the neon-lit streets of Vegas.
Every September, this two-day extravaganza draws music lovers, high-rollers, and casual fans alike to indulge in an incredible lineup of performers, and 2024 was no different. The iHeartRadio Music Festival has become a bucket list event, a place where once-in-a-lifetime collaborations and surprise guests are just as likely as hitting a royal flush on the strip. With the iconic backdrop of the Vegas Strip, the festival turns up the heat with its all star, featuring everyone from chart-topping pop icons to legendary rock acts.
The energy in the air on Friday night was palpable, like a gambler on a hot streak about to pull the lever one more time. Fans poured into the arena with high expectations, ready to see their favorite artists deliver the hits. For those who couldn’t be there in person, the show was broadcast live to fans across the globe, but let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like experiencing it all in the heart of Sin City. The festival has earned its reputation as a place where anything can happen, and this year was no exception. Friday’s lineup was a perfect blend of nostalgia, emerging talent, and fan favorites that made it feel like you were cashing in on a full house every time a new artist hit the stage.
With the bright lights of the casinos beckoning outside, it was time to double down on the music.
The Black Crowes: Kicking Things Off
The Black Crowes swooped in first, and boy, did they open strong with “Twice as Hard” and “Wanting and Waiting.” Lead singer Chris Robinson brought rock’n’roll grit to Vegas like he was holding an ace up his sleeve, especially when they tore through their hit Otis Redding cover, “Hard to Handle.” It was almost as if their guitar riffs were playing poker with the audience’s emotions—everyone was all in when “She Talks to Angels” started, and they doubled down with “Remedy” to close. Their performance was twice as nice, even without a casino chip in sight.
The New Camila Cabello
Next up was Camila Cabello, and she came to play—opening with her Playboi Carti-assisted “I LUV IT.” From the sultry beats of “Havana” to the romantic vibes of “Senorita,” Camila had the crowd swooning. And just when you thought you’d folded, she dropped her wild card to close her set, “Never Be the Same”, reminding everyone why she’s one of pop’s best players. It’s safe to say she left her heart and voice on the Vegas strip.
Gwen Stefani: No Doubt, She’s Still Got It
Gwen Stefani, strutted onstage like she owned the entire casino floor, opening with “The Sweet Escape.” Wearing her signature ponytail, a pink plaid ensemble, and black boots, Gwen was giving all the glam Vegas deserves. She debuted the live performance of “Somebody Else’s,” the next single off her forthcoming album “Bouquet”. From “Don’t Speak” to “Just a Girl,” she reminded everyone of her ska-punk roots before turning up the fun with “Hollaback Girl.” This set wasn’t just bananas; it was B-A-N-A-N-A-S.
Thomas Rhett Brings Georgia to Nevada
Thomas Rhett was up next, bringing a little southern charm to Sin City in his all-denim outfit. He opened with “Beautiful As You,” and for a moment, it felt like we were at a country dive bar instead of a mega-arena. Vegas odds were on his heartfelt “Die a Happy Man” being a crowd favorite, and he cashed in. With hits like “Make Me Wanna” and “Boots,” Rhett proved he’s got a knack for making country music feel at home in the desert heat. After all the bars were closed, he left the stage with nothing but smiles, like a lucky gambler walking away from the slots.
Shaboozy Goes 1 for 1
Shaboozy brought his smooth, genre-blending style to the stage with “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” offering a refreshing cocktail of sounds that Las Vegas wasn’t ready for. Sporting a shirt from Desert 5 Spot, the Los Angeles country bar, Shaboozy kept the one song performance full of energy, letting his lyrics speak louder than the slots from the neighboring casinos. A perfect breather before the headliners stormed the stage.
Paramore Gets Real
Hayley Williams and Paramore came to burn the house down, kicking off with “Hard Times” and a killer cover of Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House.” But it wasn’t just their music that had everyone talking; Hayley’s all-blue outfit was an eye-catcher. Inspired by Blondie’s 1979 live performance on The Midnight Special, Williams rocked a blue dress, fishnet stockings, heels, and a matching headband. If the iconic Debbie Harry had fronted a 2024 pop-punk band, it would’ve looked exactly like this.
But Paramore didn’t just come to give us a history lesson in music fashion. During “Big Man, Little Dignity,” Williams made a passionate plea for political action, specifically calling out Donald Trump and Project 2025. “It is time for all Americans to band together and finally defeat the Trump agenda,” she urged. “And the only way to do that is by confronting him at the polls. Do you want to live in a dictatorship? Well, show up and vote.” The crowd roared in agreement as she continued, “Project 2025 is Donald Trump’s playbook for controlling and punishing women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.”
The rest of the set brought fans back to the music they’ve come to know and love, including an emotional performance of “The Only Exception.” They closed out their set with the energetic anthem “Ain’t It Fun,” reminding everyone that Paramore is still as fresh and relevant as ever. Hayley Williams may have taken a bold stance on stage, but she left the audience dancing, proving that a little fun with a message can make the biggest impact.
Dua Lipa: Sparkling and Stunning
And finally, closing out the night was one of the queens of pop herself, Dua Lipa, dressed in a jaw-dropping black sparkly dress and bedazzled boots that had more shimmer than a disco ball. Dua opened with “Training Season” before elevating the energy with “Levitating”—and that’s no illusion. She dropped hit after hit, from “New Rules” to “Don’t Start Now,” and by the time she finished with “Houdini,” she’d completely disappeared—but not before taking everyone’s breath away. If there was ever a pop performance that felt like hitting the jackpot, this was it.
Saturday Night
But the iHeartRadio Music Festival isn’t over yet! Night two is coming in hot with Big Sean, Doja Cat, Halsey, The Weeknd, Hozier, Keith Urban, New Kids On The Block, Victoria Monét, and Chris Martin. If Friday was any indicator, Saturday’s lineup will surely have fans betting on another unforgettable night.
So, whether you’re hitting the tables or just here for the tunes, the iHeartRadio Music Festival is proving to be a gamble worth taking this weekend!
Vance Joy performs at the Salt Shed in Chicago, IL on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 (Photo by Tess Trueblood/The Early Registration).
Vance Joy brought his signature blend of indie-folk and heartfelt lyrics to the Salt Shed in Chicago last night, for one of his ‘dream your life away’ anniversary shows. It’s been ten years since his acclaimed album left us all stranded on a “Riptide” of feels, and Tuesday night proved that those waves of nostalgia are still crashing strong. With 18 songs on the setlist, a couple of surprising covers, and plenty of acoustic magic, Vance Joy turned a breezy Chicago night into a memory for the ages.
The Salt Shed, once an industrial salt storage facility, now functions as a unique concert venue. Its rugged, exposed brick and steel beams offer a gritty yet charming contrast to more traditional concert spaces. Joy opened the show with acoustic versions of “From Afar” and “Winds of Change,” setting the tone for an intimate evening under the stars. His voice, as tender as ever, made the night feel like a personal serenade.
In an unexpected twist, Joy treated fans to a cover of Noah Cyrus’ “Everybody Needs Someone” and a surprising rendition of KISS’ “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” These moments kept the crowd guessing and added a fresh twist to the set, making the performance feel both nostalgic and new. Of course, the crowd erupted when the unmistakable opening chords of “Riptide” rang out, with everyone singing along to his biggest hit.
For the encore, Vance returned with “I’m With You,” capping off a night filled with acoustic gems and heartfelt performances. Joy’s performance at the Salt Shed was the perfect tribute to an album that’s still as touching now as it was a decade ago. Here’s to the next 10 years of dreamin’ with Vance Joy.
Check out our amazing photos from the memorable night, from our photographer Tess Trueblood below.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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