Who would have guessed that Country music in Phoenix is just as popular as pop hits. The night was packed with people finding parking and making their way to the Arizona Financial Theater. There was a sea of cowboy boots, hats and plaid everywhere. Tonight was a big deal for everyone, including myself. I am a fan of country music, although you wouldn’t guess that by looking at me. This night was going to be fun and my second country concert. The first time I went to a country concert was Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen; I knew tonight was not going to disappoint.
The audience at the Arizona Financial Theater was the biggest I’ve ever seen there. The venue was packed, every seat accounted for and the general admission pit filled to the brim with people. The room went dark and then all of a sudden red and white lights came on. There were strobes and then what could be described as EDM music came on and this music faded into the first song by Swindell. He came onto the stage in what looked like a tan Carhart jacket and baseball cap. He then sang “Flatliner”. The crowd erupted into cheers and screams.
Swindell began his career as a song writer in 2010. He wrote hits for Luke Bryan, Chris Young and Florida Georgia line to name a few. He then began his singing career in 2013 when he released “Chillin’ It”. His performance was amazing! He kept his fans entertained with amazing songs and showmanship. He moved to both ends of the stage and would shake the hands of some of his fans. He truly knows how to put on a great performance.
Cole Swindell
The second artist of the night was Dylan Scott. Originally Scott was supposed to be the first opener of the night. This country pop singer came onto the scene in 2013 and has hit the ground running. He really got the crowd going and was an excellent opener for Swindell. His set ran longer than it was originally timed for but the crowd did not care. The minute he began to sing the audience in seats rose to their feet and sang along. At the end of his set he addressed the audience. He thanked all the people who were police, firefighters and military personnel for their service. He talked about how great our country was and how blessed we are to be free. The audience cheered and clapped in agreeance.
Dylan Scott
The first band of the nigh was Restless Road from Nashville, Tennessee. The band is formed by Zach Beeken, Garrett Nichols, and Colton Pack. Beeken and Pack met on the show X Factor and had each auditioned as solo artists but they were eliminated early on. Simon Cowell invited them back to sing with Andrew Scholz. Scholz eventually left the band and Nichols took his place; that’s how restless road was formed. The band came on and performed and the audience ate up their performance. Their setlist range from fast paced to some slower paced songs. The variety gave the audience a good mix. The band also addressed how their van had broken down multiple times on the way to Phoenix and this could be part of the reason why they switched slots with Scott. Fans speculated their van was still broken and it needed to be fixed before the night ended so they could continue on their venture. Overall their performance was fun and you can see their joy and happiness in performing for everyone.
Restless Road
