Thursday August 8, 2024

The Voices Of America Country Music Fest kicked off its second annual edition with a lively and memorable opening night on Thursday, August 8th. Set against the backdrop of a picture-perfect evening, the festival in West Chester, Ohio, provided a fantastic start to the four-day celebration of country music.

Blake Tyler was the first to take the stage, hailing from just 30 minutes up the road in Lebanon, OH. His performance set the tone for the night, delivering a blend of well-executed covers from today’s top country artists. His band was tight and energetic, instantly connecting with the audience. Blake also introduced a few of his original songs, which were met with enthusiasm by the crowd, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the local country scene.

Following Blake Tyler was Thomas Mac, another Ohio native who now calls Nashville home. Thomas brought a mix of heartfelt and humorous songs to the stage, capturing the audience’s attention with highlights like the patriotic anthem “Fight For America” and the cleverly titled “Beer Vs Women” and “I Went Fishing.” A standout moment was his medley of Elvis Presley songs, a tribute to his father who was in attendance, adding a personal touch to his performance. Thomas's ability to blend classic influences with his own style made for an engaging set.

Next up was Larry Fleet, who gained recognition as the runner-up on USA Network’s show "Real Country." Larry's deep, soulful voice resonated through the crowd as he performed fan favorites such as “Where I Find God,” “Things I Take For Granted,” and “25-8.” His storytelling added depth to his set, particularly when he recounted the story behind his first #1 charting song, "Man Made A Bar," which he wrote for Morgan Wallen, featuring Eric Church. This performance was a testament to Larry’s songwriting prowess and solidified his place as a standout artist of the night.

The night culminated with Ernest taking the stage as the headliner. From the moment he stepped on stage, the crowd was on their feet, dancing and singing along to every song. Ernest delivered a set packed with hits, each one met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the audience. His energy was infectious, and his performance was the perfect way to cap off the night.



The opening night of the Voices Of America Country Music Fest was a resounding success, setting the bar high for the rest of the festival. The combination of local talent, heartfelt performances, and a lively crowd made for an unforgettable start to this celebration of country music. With perfect weather and an electric atmosphere, it was clear that this festival is fast becoming a staple event for country music fans in the region.