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Review: Hozier Delivers ‘Sweet’ Performance to Madison’s Breese Stevens Field

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BY DAN GARCIA

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Hozier brings his Unreal Unearth Tour to the Breese Stevens Field in Madison, WI on Friday, August 16, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Hozier’s sold-out performance at Breese Stevens Field in Madison, WI, as part of his “Unreal Unearth Tour” was a night filled with electric energy, both from the weather and the music. After a brief delay due to an incoming thunderstorm, the skies cleared, and Hozier took the stage, ready to Madison to church and beyond.

Hozier’s headlining set kicked off with “Jackie and Wilson” from his 2014 self-titled debut, setting the tone for a night where every song felt like a journey through Hozier’s ethereal soundscapes. Madison’s Breese Stevens Field, usually home to soccer matches, transformed into a sanctuary for fans of all ages. The venue, just a stone’s throw from the Wisconsin State Capitol, provided a scenic backdrop, although some fans opted for a more comfortable view from their condo balconies nearby. Hozier even joked about crashing for an impromptu after-party, a testament to his ability to connect with the audience.

One highlight of the night was his performance of “Nobody’s Soldier”, a song released just yesterday, from his upcoming “Unaired EP.” The crowd was all in, singing along as if they’d known the song for years. 

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Midway through the set, Hozier treated the audience to “Too Sweet,” his current massive single, which was met with raucous applause. And of course, no Hozier concert would be complete without “Take Me To Church,” which closed the regular set and had the crowd singing along with every word, reminding us all why we first fell in love with his music.

The encore was a rollercoaster of emotions. “Cherry Wine” set a romantic tone that saw two fans getting engaged mid-song—a magical moment that only added to the song’s tender atmosphere. Following that, “Unknown/Nth” and “Nina Cried Power” brought the energy back up, culminating in “Work Song,” which he performed with his opener, Allison Russell. Their voices blended seamlessly, closing the night on a powerful note.

In the end, the night was a perfect blend of new songs, fan favorites, and unexpected surprises—all in a venue that felt both intimate and grand.

Check out last night’s setlist and our favorite photos from the performance below.​

Setlist

  1. Jackie and Wilson
  2. Eat Your Young
  3. Nobody’s Soldier
  4. Angel of Small Death and the Codeine Scene
  5. Dinner & Diatribes
  6. Francesca
  7. Like Real People Do
  8. I, Carrion (Icarian)
  9. From Eden
  10. Wildflower and Barley
  11. Would That I
  12. De Selby (Part 2)
  13. Too Sweet
  14. NFWMB
  15. Almost (Sweet Music)
  16. Movement
  17. Take Me to Church
  18. Cherry Wine
  19. Unknown/Nth
  20. Nina Cried Power
  21. Work Song
  • Hozier brings his Unreal Unearth Tour to the Breese Stevens Field in Madison, WI on Friday, August 16, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
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Review: Mimi Webb’s Full Circle Performance at the House of Blues Chicago

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BY DAN GARCIA

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Mimi Webb performs at the House of Blues in Chicago, IL on Saturday August 3, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia).

On a night buzzing with Lollapalooza excitement, Mimi Webb took the stage at the iconic House of Blues Chicago, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. This show was part of Tate McRae’s Lollapalooza aftershow, making it a full-circle moment for both artists, as they had shared the same stage at this very venue in 2022 during the extended Lollapalooza weekend. From the moment she stepped on stage, Mimi captivated the audience with her powerful voice and magnetic presence.

The show kicked off at 11:00 pm, perfectly timed to allow fans who had spent the day at Lollapalooza to make their way over just a few blocks Northwest. Mimi opened with “Freezing,” setting the tone for an electrifying night. Her heartfelt performance of “Ghost of You” showcased her vocal range and emotional depth, leaving the audience in awe. “Erase U” brought a more upbeat vibe, with fans singing along and dancing to the infectious rhythm.

Other highlights include Mimi’s performance of “Mistake”, which was both powerful and catchy, resonating deeply with the audience. The energy spiked with last year’s “Red Flags,” a song that had everyone on their feet, dancing and cheering.

Reflecting on her journey, Mimi shared her love for Chicago, calling it one of her favorite cities. She reminisced about her 2022 performance at the same venue, highlighting how much both she and Tate McRae have grown as artists since then. This sentiment of growth and gratitude was palpable throughout her performance, making the night even more special.

In a spontaneous and delightful moment, Mimi even took a drink with the Windy City crowd, saying, “Usually I don’t do this, but it’s an aftershow so why not?” This gesture further endeared her to the audience, creating an intimate and memorable connection that set the tone for McRae’s forthcoming set.

Mimi Webb’s performance at the House of Blues Chicago was a testament to her talent and charisma. Her ability to engage the audience and deliver powerful performances makes her a standout artist in today’s music scene. As she continues to rise, moments like these highlight her journey and the strong bond she shares with her fans.

Catch Mimi Webb performing today at Lollapalooza, and if last night’s performance is any indication, it’s a show you won’t want to miss.

Setlist

  1. Freezing
  2. Ghost of You
  3. Erase U
  4. Dumb Love
  5. Mistake
  6. Red Flags
  7. Good Without
  8. House of Fire

 

  • Mimi Webb performs at the House of Blues in Chicago, IL on Saturday August 3, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
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Review: Gracie Abrams Captivates in Austin City Limits Debut

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BY DAN GARCIA

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Gracie Abrams performs during a taping of Austin City Limits on July 30, 2024 (Photo by Scott Newton/Courtesy of Austin City Limits).

Los Angeles singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, celebrated for her heartfelt lyrics and captivating voice, made her highly anticipated debut at Austin City Limits on Tuesday night, offering a performance that left a lasting impression. As part of the iconic PBS show’s huge 50th anniversary season, Abrams’ taping will broadcast in October and will also be available for streaming, allowing fans everywhere to experience the magic. Her appearance at the Moody Theater on Tuesday night marked her first time gracing the legendary ACL stage, solidifying her place in the pantheon of music stars.

While the “Close To You” singer has graced the stages of Austin before, performing at the Austin City Limits Music Festival in Zilker Park in 2021, her appearance at the Moody Theater marked her first performance for the legendary Austin City Limits show. This historic venue and program, with its picturesque backdrop of the Austin skyline, provided an intimate setting that perfectly suited Abrams’ soulful and heartfelt music. Within the walls of this hallowed venue, time seemed to stand still as Abrams delivered a performance that will be etched in the memories of those lucky enough to attend the private taping.

Abrams, dressed in an oversized unbuttoned blue dress shirt over a white bralette and light blue baggy straight-leg jeans, delivered a setlist that blended new tracks from her latest album, “The Secret of Us,” with beloved classics already cemented in the discography of her growing career. Released just weeks ago, many of the new album’s tracks were performed live for the first time, giving fans a special glimpse of her evolving artistry.

Opening with “Risk,” a standout single from her new album, Abrams immediately captivated the audience. The energy built as she seamlessly transitioned into “Blowing Smoke” and “I Love You, I’m Sorry,” before diving into older favorites like “Where Do We Go Now” and “21.”

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Gracie Abrams performs during a taping of Austin City Limits on July 30, 2024 (Photo by Scott Newton/Courtesy of Austin City Limits).

Throughout the night, Gracie’s gratitude was palpable. “I’m going to articulate this the best way I can, I love you and thank you so much for being here,” she told the audience midway through the show. Her heartfelt connection with the crowd was evident as she blew kisses to the crowd and made heart hands to young fans with a guitar pick in her mouth a smile from ear to ear. Her sincerity and emotional transparency added depth to her performance, making the night unforgettable for her fans.

After concluding her set with “Free Now,” the second to last track from her new LP, Abrams returned for a unique encore, re-recording the first three songs due to producers’ requests for extra footage for the forthcoming broadcast. This unexpected treat was met with overwhelming excitement from the audience, who sang along with even more energy than the first time.

Gracie Abrams’ performance at Austin City Limits was a testament to her undeniable talent and the genuine connection she shares with her fans. Her rise to fame is a testament to her artistry and dedication. As she prepares for her forthcoming sold-out headlining tour, her ACL performance now stands as a significant milestone in her rapidly growing career.

Gracie Abrams’ Austin City Limits debut will undoubtedly be a highlight of the show’s 50th season, celebrating half a century of performances from the biggest names in music. Her performance captured the essence of Austin’s rich musical heritage while showcasing her unique voice and talent, ensuring that fans both old and new will be eagerly awaiting its broadcast this October.

Season 50 of “Austin City Limits” is set to premiere on PBS on September 28th with a performance from Texas’ own, Kacey Musgraves.

Setlist

  1. Risk
  2. Blowing Smoke
  3. I Love You, I’m Sorry
  4. Where Do We Go Now
  5. 21
  6. Gave You I Gave You I
  7. Mess It Up
  8. Good Luck Charlie
  9. Friend
  10. Normal Thing
  11. Tough Love
  12. Let It Happen
  13. I Miss You, I’m Sorry
  14. Free Now
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!

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Preview: Gracie Abrams Set to Make Austin City Limits Debut Next Week

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BY TER STAFF

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Gracie Abrams performs at the Austin City Limits Music Festival on October 2, 2021 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Next week, the iconic Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, will be graced by the enchanting presence of Gracie Abrams as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of Austin City Limits. This milestone year marks half a century since Willie Nelson first took the ACL stage, and what better way to commemorate this legacy than with a performance from one of today’s most promising singer-songwriters.

Gracie Abrams, a nominee for the 2024 Grammy Best New Artist, is no stranger to captivating audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing voice. Her Austin City Limits debut promises to be an unforgettable evening, showcasing new music from her highly anticipated sophomore album, The Secret of Us, which dropped on June 21st via Interscope Records. Fans have already fallen in love with the album’s lead single, “Risk,” co-written with Audrey Hobert and produced with Aaron Dessner of The National. This new track, along with the rest of the album, has been met with widespread acclaim from Rolling Stone, Billboard, Nylon, and more.

Abrams’ rise in the music world has been nothing short of meteoric. Since her debut in 2019, she has garnered a devoted following, thanks to her emotionally intimate songwriting and compelling performances. Her debut project, minor (2020), and subsequent releases like This Is What It Feels Like (2021) and Good Riddance (2023) have established her as a significant voice in contemporary music. With influences like Joni Mitchell and admiration from artists such as Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Olivia Rodrigo, Abrams continues to carve out her unique space in the industry.

Her upcoming performance at Austin City Limits is particularly special as it precedes her sold out “The Secret of Us Tour,” set to begin this September in Portland, Oregon. Abrams also recently achieved a milestone by selling out the O2 Arena in London for the forthcoming international leg of her tour, a testament to her growing international appeal.

For those lucky enough to attend the taping, the evening promises an intimate yet electrifying experience. Doors open at 7 PM, with the theater located at 310 W. 2nd Street, Willie Nelson Blvd. Fans are advised to arrive early, as tapings begin promptly at 8 PM CT. The Will Call and Front Porch Bar will open at 6 PM, ensuring attendees have ample time to soak in the atmosphere before the show begins.

For those not lucky enough to attend in person, the broadcast of her taping is set to air (and available for streaming) during the Austin City Limits upcoming 50th season on PBS. which premieres on September 28th with a performance by Texas’ own, Kacey Musgraves.

As Austin City Limits celebrates its 50th anniversary, Gracie Abrams’ performance is set to be a highlight of this historic year. With her new album, The Secret of Us, and a fall tour on the horizon, Abrams is poised to continue her ascent in the music world. Don’t miss this chance to witness her debut at one of the most iconic venues in live music history.

For more information on attending the event, visit the Austin City Limits website.

News

Travis Scott Expands Record-Breaking Circus Maximus Tour to Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand

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BY TER STAFF

Travis Scott at Rolling Loud Miami
Travis Scott performs at Rolling Load in Miami, FL on May 12, 2018.

The global rap sensation Travis Scott is set to expand his record-breaking Circus Maximus Tour to new territories this fall, hitting stadiums across Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand. Fans in Buenos Aires, Rio De Janeiro, Mexico City, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and other major cities are in for a spectacular experience as Scott brings his electrifying performances to these locations. Additionally, the rapper will make a triumphant return to North America for a special one-night-only show at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on October 9, 2024.

Scott is currently on the European and UK leg of the Circus Maximus Tour, which has already made waves with its immense success. The tour’s North American run in 2023 and early 2024 saw 44 sold-out shows and became the highest-grossing rap tour ever. The current European leg has grossed nearly $27 million with more than 270,000 attendees across just the first 11 dates. Scott also made history by becoming the first American hip-hop artist to sell 200,000 tickets in a single year across three shows in Italy.

Ticket Information

  • Latin America: Presales for Latin American dates start on Wednesday, July 24, with general onsales beginning Thursday, July 25. Tickets can be purchased at travisscott.com.
  • Australia and New Zealand: Presales begin on Monday, July 29, with general onsales starting Friday, August 2, available at travisscott.com.
  • MetLife Stadium: The MetLife show tickets will be available from an artist presale starting Wednesday, July 24, at 10 am ET, with general onsale on Friday, July 26, at 10 am ET, at travisscott.com.

VIP packages for the MetLife show, including premium tickets, pre-show lounge access, and exclusive merchandise, can be found at vipnation.com.

Tour Dates

Europe/UK Leg – Ongoing:

  • June 28-30: Arnhem, Netherlands – GelreDome
  • July 2: Krakow, Poland – TAURON Arena
  • July 5: Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion
  • July 6: Nice, France – Allianz Riviera
  • July 9: Antwerp, Belgium – Sportpaleis
  • July 11: London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
  • July 13: Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
  • July 16: Hamburg, Germany – Barclays Arena
  • July 18: Prague, Czech Republic – O2 Arena
  • July 20: Cologne, Germany – RheinEnergieSTADION
  • July 23: Milan, Italy – Ippodromo SNAI La Maura
  • July 26-27: Frankfurt, Germany – Deutsche Bank Park
  • July 30-31: Madrid, Spain – WiZink Center
  • August 2-4: Lisbon, Portugal – MEO Arena

Fall 2024 – Newly Added:

  • September 7: Santiago, Chile – Estadio Bicentenario La Florida
  • September 9: Buenos Aires, Argentina – Movistar Arena
  • September 11: São Paulo, Brazil – Allianz Parque Stadium
  • September 13: Rio De Janeiro, Brazil – Rock in Rio
  • September 15: Bogota, Colombia – Coliseo Medplus
  • September 18: San Juan, Puerto Rico – Coliseo de Puerto Rico
  • September 21: Mexico City, México – Esplanade Estadio Azteca
  • October 9: East Rutherford, New Jersey – MetLife Stadium
  • October 17: Sydney, Australia – Allianz Stadium
  • October 22: Melbourne, Australia – Marvel Stadium
  • October 26: Brisbane, Australia – Suncorp Stadium
  • October 31: Auckland, New Zealand – Eden Park
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Dua Lipa and Halsey Join iHeartRadio Festival’s Exciting Las Vegas Lineup

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BY TER STAFF

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Dua Lipa and Halsey have been added to the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Festival lineup, exciting fans with the promise of spectacular performances. This festival, known for its star-studded lineup, will be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas over two days, September 20 and 21. With Ryan Seacrest hosting, attendees can expect a unique experience where artists perform on the same stage, one after another, in a setting more reminiscent of an awards show than a typical festival.

In addition to Dua Lipa and Halsey, the lineup includes an impressive array of artists from various genres. Day One will feature performances by Camila Cabello, Gwen Stefani, Paramore, Shaboozey, the Black Crowes, and Thomas Rhett. Day Two will showcase Big Sean, Doja Cat, Hozier, Keith Urban, New Kids on the Block, and Victoria Monét. This diverse lineup ensures that fans will enjoy a wide range of musical styles, making for a dynamic and thrilling festival atmosphere.

Tickets for the event are available on AXS.com, starting at $59.50, with options for single-day passes or two-day passes for those wanting to experience both nights. Additionally, the festival will be live-streamed on Hulu at no extra cost to subscribers and broadcast live on iHeartMedia radio stations across the country. With a mix of top-tier talent and unique festival production, the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Festival is set to be one of the most memorable music events of the year.

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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