Nationwide Arena
Columbus, OH. June 16, 2023
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Columbus, Ohio, was in for an extraordinary evening of music and nostalgia as the Nationwide Arena prepared to host a legendary performance by none other than Brooks and Dunn. These seasoned musicians, both pushing the age of 70, took the stage accompanied by a band that exemplified excellence in every note played. However, what truly set this performance apart from their previous one in 2010 was the remarkable surge of energy and engagement that radiated from both artists. Their rejuvenated spirits were palpable as they interacted with each other, poured their hearts into every lyric, and effortlessly forged a profound connection with the near-capacity crowd that eagerly awaited their every move.
In the midst of an adoring sea of fans, Ronnie Dunn's vocal prowess proved that time had done little to diminish his remarkable talent. With a voice that defied the years, he commanded the stage, delivering each lyric with a perfect blend of power and raw emotion. Songs like "Put a Girl in It," "Hard Workin' Man," and "Play Something Country" were masterfully brought to life by Dunn's commanding presence, as he lent weight and authenticity to the heartfelt narratives they portrayed. Meanwhile, Kix Brooks showcased his versatility, captivating the audience with his tender rendition of the gently wistful ballad, "You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone." The undeniable chemistry between the two artists elevated their performances to new heights, with their voices intertwining in seamless harmony, intensifying the impact of their timeless classics. As an extra special treat, they invited Megan Moroney, a rising star with a captivating voice, to join them on stage for a remarkable rendition of "Cowgirls Don't Cry," creating a magical moment of collaboration and talent.
The atmosphere inside the Nationwide Arena was charged with an infectious joy that enveloped the crowd. The audience willingly surrendered themselves to the music, finding solace in the irresistible beats of songs like "Ain't Nothing 'Bout You," which compelled them to dance spontaneously in the aisles. In these moments, the barrier between stage and audience dissolved, and everyone became one with the rhythm, basking in the sheer euphoria of the experience. Throughout the night, sing-alongs reverberated throughout the venue, reaching a crescendo during fan favorites like "Red Dirt Road." The lyrics became a unifying force, embraced by every voice in unison, reinforcing the unbreakable bond between Brooks and Dunn and their devoted followers. The exchange of energy between the stage and the crowd fostered a mutual adoration that transcended time and left an indelible mark on the hearts of all in attendance.
The collective euphoria that pulsated through the air served as a testament to the enduring power of Brooks and Dunn's music. It was evident that the fans, immersed in the unforgettable moments of that evening, would not have to endure another 13-year hiatus before experiencing the magic of their beloved artists once more. The legacy of Brooks and Dunn, solidified by their two Grammy Awards for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group, 23 Academy of Country Music Awards, and their induction into the Country Hall of Fame in 2019, remained as vibrant as ever. The air was charged with anticipation, hinting at future reunions and promising a continued celebration of the unmatched legacy left by these icons of country music.
Setlist:
- Brand New Man
- Put A Girl In It
- My Next Broken Heart
- Mama Don't Get Dressed Up For Nothing
- We'll Burn That Bridge
- Honky Tonk Truth
- You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone
- Ain't Nothing 'Bout You
- Red Dirt Road
- Lost And Found
- Hard Workin' Man
- Play Something Country
- Cowgirls Don't Cry (With Megan Moroney)
- Neon Moon
- Rock My World (Little Country Girl)
- Believe
- My Maria (B.W. Stevenson Cover)
Encore:
18. Boot Scootin' Boogie
19. Only In America
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Scotty McCreery, the immensely talented support act, took the stage and effortlessly set the table for an unforgettable evening of music. His performance was characterized by a collection of smartly written tunes, delivered with a smooth yet rugged voice that seemed to defy expectations. McCreery's ability to captivate the audience extended beyond his musical prowess, as his genuine and upbeat banter created an instant connection with everyone present.
As the crowd eagerly awaited the song "It Matters to Her" with a heartwarming anecdote. He shared that it was his wife's favorite song, highlighting the importance of the small but significant gestures one can do for their loved one. Examples like saying "I love you" on the phone, stealing a kitchen kiss, or picking up a bottle of her favorite wine on the way home from work painted a vivid picture of love's tender moments. In a playful twist, McCreery challenged the women in the Columbus crowd to guess the lyric that pleased his wife the most, leading to an eruption of boisterous cheers when he sang the line, "When you shut up and listen, to what she has to say." The crowd's response was a testament to the universal truth behind the sentiment, and McCreery playfully recounted how his wife had even created a T-shirt featuring the phrase "shut up and listen," conveniently available for sale at his merchandise tables.
Throughout his set, the 2011 "American Idol" champion expertly weaved together an array of entertaining performances. His rumbling, thumping ode to taking it easy, "Nothin' Right," brought a sense of carefree joy to the venue, inviting the audience to embrace the moment. A poignant tribute came in the form of his cover of John Michael Montgomery's mega hit "Be My Baby Tonight" and George Strait's timeless hit, "Check Yes or No," allowing fans to revel in nostalgia while appreciating McCreery's unique interpretation. However, it was the emotionally charged "Five More Minutes" that truly left an indelible mark on the hearts of attendees. Moved by the song's message, McCreery requested that the crowd raise their lit-up cellphones in honor of anyone they had lost and wished they could see again, even if just for five minutes. The sight of a sea of illuminated devices held high was a powerful symbol of collective remembrance and longing.
Scotty McCreery's entire set was a masterclass in entertainment, seamlessly blending heartfelt lyrics with an engaging stage presence. His music resonated deeply with the audience, who eagerly embraced every moment, creating memories that would endure long after the final notes faded away. McCreery's talent, combined with his genuine and likable demeanor, ensured that his performance would be remembered as an integral part of an extraordinary night filled with powerful emotions and musical brilliance.
Setlist:
- In Between
- Small Town Story
- Feelin' It
- It Matters To Her
- Nothin' Right
- This Is It
- See You Tonight
- Be My Baby Tonight (John Michael Montgomery Cover)
- Five More Minutes
- Check Yes Or No (George Strait Cover)
- Damn Strait
- You Time
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Megan Moroney, a captivating and talented performer, took the stage with an aura of confidence that immediately caught the audience's attention. With her pleasant voice and undeniable charm, she effortlessly commanded the spotlight, leaving a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to witness her electrifying performance in Columbus.
From the moment she began singing, it was clear that Megan Moroney possessed a rare talent. Her voice, a delicate balance of power and vulnerability, resonated throughout the venue, enveloping the audience in a tapestry of emotions. As she passionately delivered her rendition of "I'm Not Pretty," the lyrics struck a chord with everyone in the room, capturing the essence of modern relationships and the insecurities that often accompany them. Lines like "Somewhere out there my ex-boyfriend's new girlfriend's scrolling through my Instagram" added a relatable twist to the song, further deepening its impact.
But it was Megan Moroney's breakout hit, "Tennessee Orange," that truly stole the show. Recently soaring to the coveted #1 spot on the Country Music Charts, this heartfelt anthem struck a chord with country music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Its timeless melody and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with the crowd, who eagerly embraced every word and melody as if it were etched in their souls. The performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those present.
The impact of Megan Moroney's talent was palpable. As the applause thundered through the venue, it became evident that her music had transcended the stage and embedded itself within the hearts of her listeners. The air was thick with anticipation, as aspiring young singers and country cover bands in the audience undoubtedly made mental notes, eager to dissect and emulate the magic they had just witnessed.
Megan Moroney's performance in Columbus was a testament to her undeniable talent, leaving no doubt that she is destined for greatness in the world of music. With her powerful voice, relatable lyrics, and undeniable charm, she has cemented her place as an artist who not only entertains but also inspires. The memories created that night will continue to resonate within the hearts of those fortunate enough to be part of the experience, as they eagerly await her next journey into the spotlight.
Setlist:
- Lucky
- I'm Not Pretty
- Traitor Joe
- Girl In The Mirror
- Gunpowder And Lead (Miranda Lambert Cover)
- Tennessee Orange