Tag Archives: Hardy

Country Thunder Wisconsin 2025 Preview: One Million Fans Can’t Be Wrong

Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

It’s almost that time again, when cowboy boots stomp through Twin Lakes, country anthems echo across the fields, and tens of thousands of fans descend on southeast Wisconsin for one of the biggest parties of the summer. Country Thunder Wisconsin returns July 17–20, 2025, and this year, it’s not just bigger and better, it’s historic.

Celebrating its legacy as the largest country music festival brand in North America, Country Thunder Wisconsin is set to welcome its one millionth fan this year. That lucky festivalgoer, whose ticket gets scanned at just the right moment, will be crowned live on-site and awarded a once-in-a-lifetime prize package. (April’s Country Thunder Arizona winner, Lacey Culpepper, was attending for the very first time. So yes, this could be your year.)

As for the lineup? It’s a can’t-miss mix of country’s biggest hitmakers and rising stars, all taking the stage just a short drive from the Illinois border. Headliners this year include:

  • Cole Swindell, known for arena anthems and #1 hits like “She Had Me at Heads Carolina”
  • HARDY, a genre-blending force whose rock edge redefines modern country
  • Jelly Roll, one of music’s most talked-about crossover success stories
  • Dierks Bentley, a festival favorite with over 20 years of crowd-pleasing hits

Supporting acts include the likes of Tyler Hubbard (of Florida Georgia Line fame), the ever-energetic Gavin Adcock, rising powerhouse Ashley Cooke, Ashley McBryde, and 2025 ACM New Male Artist of the Year Zach Top—plus even more artists to be announced.

The sprawling Country Thunder grounds in Twin Lakes, WI, just under 90 minutes from Chicago, turn into a full-blown country music city each year, complete with campgrounds, food vendors, artist activations, and nonstop good vibes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious first-timer, the energy is infectious.

Country Thunder has built a reputation over its 21-year history not just as a concert, but as a four-day celebration of all things country—a place where new memories are made, friendships are forged in the campgrounds, and everyone’s a little more sun-kissed and country by Sunday.

So pack your boots, your coolest shades, and maybe even a foam finger, because if you’re lucky, you just might become part of Country Thunder history.

For tickets, full lineup details, and camping info, visit countrythunder.com.

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

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!

Hardy Upgrades The Mockingbird & the Crow Tour to Arena and Amphitheaters This Fall

BY TER STAFF

Hardy
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Singer-songwriter Hardy has announced that he is extending his The Mockingbird & the Crow Tour with a second leg set to begin in late August and continue until December. This follows the successful first run of the tour, which started in mid-February and features opening acts Jameson Rodgers and Blame My Youth.

Hardy is known for his unique blend of country, rock, and pop influences, which have earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. With hits like “Rednecker” and “One Beer” under his belt, he has become a rising star in the country music world.

For the second leg of The Mockingbird & the Crow Tour, Hardy is shaking things up by bringing out new opening acts Lainey Wilson and Dylan Marlowe. Wilson is an especially exciting addition to the shows, since she and Hardy currently have a single out together: “Wait in the Truck,” a great ballad duet.

The new tour dates will see Hardy headlining arenas for the first time, a testament to his growing popularity and the quality of his live performances. He promises that he is ready to live up to the challenge, stating in a press release, “I believe I have two of the most authentic, talented acts out there opening for me on this run. I’m honored that Dylan and Lainey are a part of this tour, and I am still in disbelief that I’m announcing my first arena tour. Fans, I will not let you down. This WILL be the greatest Hardy set you’ve ever seen. See y’all out there.”

The fall leg of The Mockingbird & the Crow Tour will feature 16 dates, kicking off in Knoxville, Tennessee, on August 31st, and wrapping up in Biloxi, Mississippi, on December 9th. Tickets will go on sale on March 10th, with VIP packages and upgrades available. A variety of presales will also begin in the week leading up to the on-sale date.

Overall, Hardy’s The Mockingbird & the Crow Tour promises to be an exciting and unforgettable experience for country music fans across the United States. With his powerful vocals, catchy songs, and dynamic stage presence, Hardy is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences everywhere.

The Mockingbird & the Crow Fall Tour Dates

Aug. 31 – Knoxville, Tenn. @ Knoxville Civic Coliseum
Sept. 14 – Pikeville, Ky. @ Appalachian Wireless Arena
Sept. 15 – Toledo, Ohio @ Huntington Center
Sept. 16 – Youngstown, Ohio @ Covelli Centre
Oct. 5– Simpsonville, S.C. @ CCNB Amphitheatre
Oct. 12 – Jonesboro, Ark. @ First National Bank Arena
Oct. 13 – Baton Rouge, La. @ Raising Cane’s River Center
Oct. 14 – Orange Beach, Ala. @ The Wharf Amphitheater
Oct. 19 – St. Augustine, Fla. @ St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Oct. 20 – Estero, Fla. @ Hertz Arena
Oct. 27 – Nashville, Tenn. @ Nashville Municipal Auditorium
Nov. 20 – Green Bay, Wis. @ Resch Center
Dec. 1 – Peoria, Ill. @ Peoria Civic Center Arena*
Dec. 2 – Springfield, Mo. @ Great Southern Bank Arena
Dec. 7 – Savannah, Ga. @ Enmarket Arena
Dec. 8 – Huntsville, Ala. @ Propst Arena at the Von Braun Center
Dec. 9 – Biloxi, Miss. @ Mississippi Coast Coliseum