Canyon Moon Ranch

20585 E Water Way

Florence, Arizona

April 11-14, 2024

by Mary Andrews

Country Thunder (CT) hosts festivals in Arizona, Wisconsin, Florida, Bristol, Alberta, and Saskatchewan during the year. Country music has hit a momentous popularity throughout North America in recent years and Arizona is no exception to the rule. The four-day festival did not disappoint in keeping country music alive and well. Headliners included Lainey Wilson, Eric Church, Jelly Roll, and Koe Wetzel.

This year, some of the the headlining acts have gained acolades from the Country Music Association (CMA) with Lainy Wilson awarded Entertainer of the Year and Jelly Roll awarded Best New Artist, Best Male Vocalist, Best Single of the Year and Best Music Video of the Year for 2023. 

Mirada Lambert was the last female to headline CT Arizona in 2014. Wilson took the stage with apomb wearing a feathered cowboy hat and a gold lame outfit. Simply put, Wilson did not disappoint.

There was no doubt why she was crowned Entertainer of the Year after her rowdy performance at the end of the Night. She started with “Hold My Halo” and “Hillbilly Hippie.” Hers was a magnetic presence as she powered through the first five songs with her espressive twang that sounded powerful all night. 

She settled down somewhat when she went in for her “Watermelon Moonshine” ballad and a cover of Deana Carter’s “Strawberry Wine.” 

Of course, she separated the men from the women to compete against each other during “Road Runner.” 

She chose to celebrate Dolly Parton during the set as she asked if there were some Dolly Parton fans in the crowd. Wilson said she had a chance to spend some time with Parton recently. “They say never meet your heroes,” Wilson cautioned. “But Dolly Parton don’t count. I think if we were all a little bit more like Dolly Parton, the world would be a much better place, y’all.”

“I ask myself one question.””What Would Dolly Do?,” a tribute to Parton that found Wilson rhyming “Like a country music modern-day apostle” with “Yeah, I leaned in like it was gospel.” It was obvious that Wilson has taken lessons from Parton as she echoed her hero’s Southern charm and fiery spirit.

The set drew heavily on “Bell Bottom Country,” the 2022 release that picked up Album of the Year at the CMAs and the Academy of Country Music Awards along the way to winning Country Album of the Year at at this year’s Grammys. It doesn’t get better than this.

Earlier in the day, Flatland Cavary presented a much more mellow set even going unplugged at one point as guitarist/vocalist Cleto Cordero and fiddle ace Wesley Hall sending their bandmates away for a cover of George Strait’s “Ocean Front Property.”

Stephen Wilson, Jr. was another one to not miss. He calls himself Death Cab for Country,” a reference to indie-rock’s Death Cab for Cutie. There were definitely textures going on that would have felt right at home on an indie-rock record. Wilson has a presence who bared his soul about losing his father and told the day’s goofiest joke while tuning his guitar. “My wife calls me Tuny Soprano,” he said “I prefer Antunio Banderas. But who am I to choose my own nickname?”

There was a new (3rd) stage this year called the songwriters’ stage. Singer, Alana Springsteen was joined by three other songwriters: Will Weatherby, Benji Davis, and Ryan Beaver for an intimate set with each artist to play their acoustic guitars and singing. They told stories about their songs.This is a first for CT. 

Paul Cauthen gave an amazing set that had the crowd jumping on Friday. There were complaints that Cauthen’s set was not country and Cauthen did tend to reach across several genre of music to perform his slick, blend of music that mesmerized all who attended. He made good use of the runway to reach out to his fans. The band alternated songs between their 2024 album “Hot Damn” and their  “Country Coming Down” album. “Wild Man,” “Country As  Fuck’,” “Freak,” and “Caught Me At a Good Time” were a great mix of songs before flashing back and treating everyone to a Paul Cauthen classic, “Still Drivin.” Cauthen had the huge crowd in the palm of his hand.

Jelly Roll (or Jason DeFord) had the most anticipated set of the festival. His arms were outstretched as he heard thunderous the applause from 28,000 people in attendence. He started the set with “Halfway to Hell” the gospel-tinged country-rap song that opens his first full-blown country album, Whitsitt Chapel. Jelly Roll seemed truly grateful to be entertaining at CT as well as ecstatic for all the big wins he recieved last weekend at the CMAs. At “almost 39 years old,” he is the oldest Best New Artist in the history of that award.

“I’ve been dreaming of headlining Country Thunder, y’all,” he shouted, grinning ear-to-ear, before following through with “The Lost,” one of several highlights that spoke to the spiritual side of the Jelly Roll phenomenon.

“I’ve been known to find my kind of people that ain’t at home underneath church steeples,” he sang with the soulful conviction of a true believer. “You’d be surprised the places I find Jesus. That ain’t the regular crowd.” Jelly Roll’s like a gospel tent revivalist with way more face tattoos than any preacher seen by this reviewer.

He testified to those in the crowd who may be going through their own dark times, “I believe you can change. I believe that bigger and better things are on the horizon. . .I believe the windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror for a reason. Because what’s in front of you is more important than what’s behind you, Arizona.” 

His love of country music came from his mom. He mentioned, his mom played “the good stuff as he paid homage to country icons from Waylon and Willie to George Jones, Merle Haggard and Keith Whitley.” 

Excitement buzzed around the crowd like a current. There was an energetic buzz that didn’t dissipate for even a second. He sang about heartache, hard work, and chasing your dreams, touching on themes that resonated deeply within the crowd.

Every word was a solace to their souls, a powerful reminder that music could bring people together and lift them up. Throughout the show, the crowd was heavily engaged with the performance, with everyone singing along to every word of his hit songs. “I only talk to God when I need a favor” is a line from one of highly tatooed artist’s songs. 

Even the slow and soulful songs moved the crowd, evoking emotion and occasionally bringing people to tears. Jelly Roll’s set was an emotional rollercoaster, with moments of raw vulnerability and intense energy. Fans were present for a religious experience and they got one.

There were many more artists at the four day festival. Some were more familiar than others. In the past, the artists that are featured earlier in the day soon become household names. Morgan Wallen is an example. Sets from Emily Ann Roberts, Lauren Watkins, Halle Kearns, Kyle McKearney, and Alana Sprinsteen prove that they may well be our future country stars. And the future looks bright! 

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Together, these three acts delivered an electrifying performance that spanned decades of music, leaving fans exhilarated and craving more. It was a celebration of the past, present, and future of industrial rock, reminding us why this genre continues to captivate audiences nationwide. Speaking of which, the tour continues and the link to upcoming dates can be found here: TOUR DATES

For more information on I Ya Toyah, as well as the official websites of Cold and Orgy, please see the links at the bottom of this page.

Official Links:

Orgy

Cold

I Ya Toyah

Rock music has been the heartbeat of generations, defining rebellious spirits, and inspiring millions across the globe. Within this realm, certain bands have risen to iconic status, leaving an indelible mark on music history. From electrifying performances to timeless hits, these bands have shaped the very essence of rock and roll. Here, let’s delve into the realms of five of the world’s greatest rock bands, each with a legacy as enduring as their music.

1.    The Beatles: Pioneers of Pop-Rock Revolution

The Beatles revolutionized the music industry with their innovative sound, infectious melodies, and groundbreaking songwriting. From the early days of “Love Me Do” to the experimental masterpiece “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” their influence continues to resonate across generations. Their ability to evolve and experiment with different musical styles ensured their relevance in an ever-changing musical landscape. Their impact extended beyond music, influencing fashion, culture, and even politics, making them true cultural icons of the 20th century.

2.    Led Zeppelin: Masters of Musical Alchemy

Led Zeppelin’s fusion of blues, rock, and folk created a sonic landscape unlike any other. With virtuosic musicianship and mesmerizing performances, they crafted epic anthems like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Kashmir,” cementing their status as rock gods. Their albums were sonic journeys, each song a masterpiece of composition and performance. Led Zeppelin’s influence extended beyond rock, inspiring genres as diverse as heavy metal and folk rock, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the 1970s and beyond.

3.    AC/DC: Thunderstruck and Unstoppable

AC/DC’s raw energy and relentless riffing have made them a powerhouse in the world of rock. With iconic tracks such as “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell,” they embody the essence of pure, unadulterated rock and roll, electrifying audiences worldwide. Their live performances are legendary, with Angus Young’s electrifying stage presence captivating audiences for decades. AC/DC’s music is timeless, transcending generations and continuing to inspire new generations of rock enthusiasts with their signature sound and unapologetic attitude. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to their music, you can show your love for AC/DC with authentic merchandise like AC/DC T Shirts from backstageoriginals.com, celebrating the legacy of one of rock’s greatest bands.

4.    Queen: Champions of Theatrical Rock

Queen’s theatrical flair and genre-defying sound pushed the boundaries of rock music. From Freddie Mercury’s unparalleled vocal range to Brian May’s soaring guitar solos, their anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You” remain timeless classics. Their ability to blend elements of rock, opera, and pop resulted in a catalog of music that defies categorization. Queen’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, with their music being featured in countless films, commercials, and sporting events, ensuring their legacy lives on for generations to come.

5.    Rolling Stones: Rock’s Eternal Bad Boys

The Rolling Stones epitomize the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. With their swaggering attitude and blues-infused rock, they’ve captivated audiences for over half a century. Hits like “Satisfaction” and “Paint It Black” continue to resonate with fans old and new, solidifying their status as rock royalty. Despite lineup changes and decades in the spotlight, The Rolling Stones have maintained their edge, continuing to tour and release new music to critical and commercial acclaim. Their influence on rock music cannot be overstated, with their rebellious spirit inspiring generations of musicians to push the boundaries of the genre.

The Agora

Cleveland, OH

March 20, 2024

By Michelle Waters

Since 2020, some heavy hitting powerhouses of metal have been garnering the attention of metal lovers across the globe in KK’s Priest. Judas Priest founding member KK Downing, after leaving Judas Priest in 2011, formed KK’s Priest, and thrilled fans. After his departure in 2011, KK had only performed few solo performances the late 20 teens. But by 2020, he’d announced a new iteration of Judas Priest’s music, that would also feature new original songs. Two albums in, and KK’s Priest are going strong. Frontman Tim “Ripper” Owens lights up the stage with his wide ranging vocals and power, as well as his apparent humbleness and appreciation for their fans. Ripper repeatedly shouted with a huge smile that it was so good to be back home. He is from my hometown of Akron, Ohio, and was so proud to be able to perform for his neck of the woods.

This was the first US Tour of KK Priests, and was very well received, with many venues selling oKK Priestt tickets in advance. Drummer Sean Elg and Bassist Tony Newton lit up the stage with their electrical engagement, and KK and AJ Mills rocked out the harmony with dual guitar riffs. KK Priest’s stop at the Agora in Cleveland was filled with metal fans of all ages, swaying together and banging their heads to a great variety of rock music.

Among KK Priest’s set list were Judas Priest hits like dual guitar classic Breaking the Law, powerhouse Night Crawler, and The Ripper. We also heard songs from both of KK Priest’s full length albums: One More Shot at Glory and Strike of the Viper (during the two song encore) from their latest album, The Sinner Rides Again. From their first album, Sermons of the Sinner, we heard Raise Your Fists (also in the encore) as well as a song Ripper renamed for this tour: Brothers (and Sisters) of the Road, honoring supporting act Burning Witches, as well as metal legends LA Guns.

Burning Witches, a Swiss, all-female heavy metal band which caught additional traction from their Holy Diver cover, performed a solid but short set of 6 songs at the beginning of the night. Each member is a standalone performer, demonstrating the current lineup of the band is a solid choice. Courtney Cox, formerly of The Iron Maidens, has recently joined the lineup to round out their sound. Founded by guitarist Romana Kalkuhl in 2016, and now complete with drummer Lala Frischknecht, bassist Jeanine “Jay” Grob and engaging force and lead vocalist Laura Guldemond. It’s always a delight to see them perform live.

LA Guns played a slightly longer set, and did well to cover a decent run of their discography. The band’s chemistry on stage is infectious. Tracii Guns, Ace Von Johnson (also of Faster Pussycat) and Adam Hamilton played off of each others’ fire throughout the set, keeping fans smiling when they weren’t lost in the music. Antics for days. Songs played included hits from the Cocked & Loaded album, Never Enough and The Ballad of Jayne, as well as Sex Action from their title album. The set opened with Cannonball from Checkered Past, and ended with Rip & Tear-another hit from the Cocked & Loaded album.

This tour may have come to a close but you can still catch KK’s Priest at Festivals and a European tour over the summer

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Louisville Palace

Louisville, KY

March 28, 2024

By Shrithik Karthik

ONEUS came to Louisville on March 28, 2024, to perform at the Louisville Palace and they put on an unforgettable show. The choreography, the music, the energy, and the excitement from the crowd were electric. Playing a mix of their music that was slow-paced and then fast combined with the intense visuals and lasers created such a vibrant energy through the venue.

The show started sharp at 7:30 which I thought was such a nice touch, there were no openers, but starting on time is quite rare nowadays. Instantly they danced, they sang, and they went crazy. All the artists were wearing headsets and with all the dancing they did that was the right decision. They were insanely active on that stage, but when they took breaks, they knew to make it as interactive as possible. After a few minutes of incredible dancing, they stopped to interact with the audience and talk to us directly. This was cool to experience from the crowd and during these breaks the group would talk to us in Korean and the translator would speak back to the crowd in English to understand them which was very nice. They would talk about how hard they worked with the choreography, their time on tour, some inside jokes about the group, and more. The audience loved hearing them speak so intimately and it was a nice touch as well. 

The crowd was by far one of the funniest parts of the show, they were so reactive to the group. Since it was a primarily female audience, whenever one of the members of the group did a seductive dance move the audience would scream, and at the end of the songs they would even bark which I thought was very funny. They ate everything up no matter what the group did. Having a very devoted audience is important because it makes the artists perform so much better. After all, they feel like there is a real purpose behind it. I’ve gone to shows where the audience was so bored and the artists wouldn’t give it their all. This however was nothing like that, ONEUS gave it their all the entire time from start to finish which was so fun to see

This being my first K-Pop show I didn’t know what to expect, but wow was it fun. It was so cool to see such a lively and devoted fanbase go crazy at everything the group did and they put on a fantastic show. Can’t wait to go to more shows just like this one. They have a few more shows on tour so make sure to check them out if they’re coming to a city near you.

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191 Toole Avenue

Tucson, AZ 

March 29, 2024

by Mary Andrews 

Victoria Canal made her first visit to Tucson, Arizona on her tour promoting her most recent EP release, Well Well. 191 Toole is a relatively small venue and as soon as Canal took the stage she coined the show a ‘living room’ concert. She seemed to be awestruck by the landscape she has seen since she has been in Arizona. She presently lives in London. Needless to say, there is a big difference in the scenery. As in most living room concerts, the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly.

Multi-instrumentalist, Lucy Clearwater performed a 30 minute set singing her self-penned songs from her upcoming EP release, April. Clearwater is a consumate singer/songwriter whose set was a prime example of an intimate yet dynamic acoustic performer. She is touring North America alongside her BFF, Canal. As an old soul and world traveler, Clearwater’s songs are emotional and vulnerable. She is well worth checking out if she is in your area of the world.

Canal casually saundered on stage followed by Clearwater and her bass player. She starts playing keyboards, but she is just as comfortable donning her guitar early in the set. Her voice was commanding yet vulnerable at times quickly engaged the crowd.

The show is all about her songwriting. Canal introduces each song with a story of how she came to write the songs.Her songs address issues such as depression, grief, body dysmorphia, and queerness. Sbe has a way of softening the heavy topics. “Braver” is about her mother, who grew up in Alabama and Georgia but emigrated to Spain. “You’re braver than I’ve ever been,” the chorus runs, and Canal spoke about how her mother not only moved to a country whose language she couldn’t speak but also broke off an engagement in order to marry the first man she met in Spain, Canal’s father. 

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While introducing “Yes Man,” Canal mentioned that she wrote the song while on a writing retreat in Spain with Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay. He gave her the task of writing a song on his Veillette Gryphon guitar in the time it took for him to do his daily laps of the pool. Canal accomplished the task very well.

“She Walks In” addresses body image and body dysmorphia. Around the most brutal lines of the song, “I’m ugly and nothing will fix it, I’ll never be pretty to you.” Canal seemed unable to sing at moments. 

During most of the set, Canal is very relaxed onstage, feeding off the energy of the fans. She encouraged audience members to hug single members in the crowd (And they did just that). Canal’s default sound is a whispery head voice, but at times, she sang with loud, wide, pain-filled wails. iIf the song touched something unexpected inside her, the crowd was very aware of Canal’s feelings.

Canal created an atmoshere of self acceptance.Throughout the night she took every opportunity to speak to her audience. She touched upon her struggles with her body image and that it helps to know that many people are struggling with it too. She performed an encore per request from her audience after she jokingly said she hadn’t prepared an encore but would “pull one out of my ass and come back if you want me to.” Canal’s lyrics and dynamic vocals  truly made her stand out on stage. If you have the opportunity to experience Canal’s concert, please go.

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Feb. 17, 2024

Silver Legacy

Reno, NV

On February 17, 2024, I had the opportunity to take my wife to see Air Supply in concert. Prior to the show, I was unaware of the band’s immense popularity in the Philippines. In an interview, they expressed their deep connection with the country, stating that they have become a part of the Filipino DNA. Therefore, it was no surprise that the Philippines was chosen as the location for the world premiere of “All Out Of Love the Musical”, an original musical based on the band’s classic love songs. It took six years to bring the production to the stage, but they felt that it was the perfect medium to showcase their music.

Russell thinks that Filipinos’ emotional and passionate nature makes them excellent singers.

Inigo Pascual and Miguel Odron remake Air Supply’s classic hits “All Out of Love” and “Lost in Love” as part of Tarsier Records Air Supply Reimagined Project.

They were amazed by the number of remakes of Filipino songs that have been released. They enjoy hearing others perform their songs in a different way than the original recording and find it comforting.

I believe that the reason why Filipinos hold a special place in their hearts for this particular show is because there are always a large number of Filipinos in attendance. At one point during the show, after the third song was played, the performers asked if there were any Filipinos in the audience, which was met with a resounding response of laughter. Looking around, I noticed that most of the people sitting near and around me were indeed Filipinos. The show itself was quite enjoyable, with the performers treating the audience as if they were in their own living room. Additionally, many of the fans were able to get up close and personal with the band during the show.

For some background Air Supply is a soft rock formed in Australia in 1975.  They met a chords try out for Jesus Christ Superstar. And at the tryout they became friends and know they had something why could work with.  Over the years they have had many session player but Air Supply is really the same two guys Graham Russel and Russell Hitchcock.

They claim they have never had a fight. And I really believed that by how they interacted with each other during the show.  And as they get closer to their 50th anniversary their shows became more magical with each performance.

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The setlist were the following:

Sweet Dreams

Even the Night

Just As I Am

Every Woman

Here I Am

Chances

Goodbye

I Can’t Wait Forever

G’s Spot

Two Less Lonely

The One that I Love

Lost in Love

Making Love

“It was a wonderful night, closing out with “Without You” and “All Out of Love”, after hearing all of their hits. Even if you don’t know all of their songs, I’m sure you’ve heard them time and time again. Just a friendly reminder that their 50th anniversary is coming up and they are going on tour. If they come to a city near you, be sure to check them out.

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Highland Park, Illinois

By Anita Maree

Ravinia Festival, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Highland Park, Illinois, beckons music lovers to indulge in an unforgettable summer of live performances. The 2024 concert lineup boasts a diverse array of acts, featuring legends like James Taylor, Robert Plant, Allison Krauss, and The Beach Boys with John Stamos, alongside anticipated shows by Daryl Hall with Elvis Costello, Norah Jones, Gipsy Kings, Crowded House, and more. Founded in 1904, Ravinia has become a cultural cornerstone, seamlessly blending classical sophistication with contemporary flair. Beyond the music, the festival’s picturesque setting invites patrons to partake in the cherished tradition of picnicking under the stars, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.

Whether drawn to the grandeur of orchestral masterpieces or the infectious energy of pop sensations, Ravinia Festival promises an unparalleled experience that transcends genres and captivates audiences of all ages. Unrated Magazine has been a trusted media source for concert reviews and photos from many of their shows over the years, so keep an eye out for a tremendous summer under the stars! For tickets and more information, visit their website: Ravinia Festival.

March 3, 2024

Little Caesars Arena

Detroit Michigan

by Dedan Blackmon

On March 3rd, The Love Tour entered Detroit, Michigan, with lines thrown by the Ultimate Black Promoters Collective. The lineup included Keisha Cole, K Michelle, Jaheim, and Trey Songz. When I arrived at Little Caesars Arena, I knew it was going to be an exciting show. Every corner of the Arena was surrounded by fans waiting to see the show. BPC, you’ve done it again. The DJ was on stage getting the crowd hyped up with the ladies singing every word and dancing to the songs he played. Then you hear “DETROIT, ARE YOU READY” for Mr. “Panty Dropper” himself, Trey Songz.

You can see why record producer Troy Taylor picked Tremaine Aldon Neverson, known as Trey Songz.  Trey Songz was signed to Songbook Entertainment label, in a joint venture with Atlantic Records in 2005. Trey Songz has released eight albums, including I Gotta Make It, Trey Day, Ready, Passion Pain Pleasure, Chapter V, Trigga, Tremaine, and Back Home. He also has 59 singles, two EPs, and 29 music videos. His 2010 album, Passion, Pain, Pleasure, saw continued commercial success and reached number 2 on the charts.

Trey Songz walked out on stage wearing a purple shirt and pants, sunglasses, and hair braided. He paused at center stage and said, “Detroit, what’s up?” The crowd went berserk with overbearing screams. He sang “NaNa,” “Slow Motion,” “Heart Attack,” “Bottoms Up,” “Say Aah,” “Panty Droppa,” “I Invented Sex,” “Birthday,” and more. Trey Songz surprised Detroit with an appearance from Kash Doll, who came out representing Detroit and lit up the arena. She blazed the stage with her hit song, “Oh Boy,” but while she was performing, you couldn’t help but notice something different.

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Then it hit me, she’s expecting, and sure enough, she was. Congratulations on your blessing, Kash Doll. She also performed her new hit, “Pressin.” Kash Doll, keep representing Detroit like you’ve been doing. Much love. 

When Trey Songz exited, the ladies went crazy for him when he took off his shirt and walked off stage as the band ended. 

“Keisha Cole” first stepped on the scene on June 21, 2005, through A&M Records with her debut album, “The Way It Is,” that received Platinum certification. Keisha Cole has released 12 albums such as “Just Like You,” “The Way It Is,” “A Different Me,” “Calling All Hearts,” “Reset,” “Point Of No Return,” and “Woman To Woman.” Keisha Cole has also won many awards, including Vibe Award, NAACP Image Award, Billboard Music Award, Bet Award, American Music Award, Soul Train Award, Urban Music Award, Ascap, Grammy, and many more. She has accomplished so much, with many hits such as “Love,” “I Should Have Cheated,” “Heaven Sent,” “Let It Go,” “I Remember,” “Last Night,” “Woman To Woman,” and more. 

As you see the fog filling the stage and pictures appearing on the screen, the DJ says, “Give it up for Keisha Cole,” and she walks out in a black fur hat, black lingerie with see-through arms and stomach and legs, a platinum KC chain, and black boots as she enters the stage. Throughout her whole set, Keisha Cole basically showed how romance and love are supposed to be, step by step, from embracing your mate to holding to kissing and so on, giving you a fantasy. She tells a story with it, engaging you where you’re all in. She sang songs like “Love,” “Let It Go,” “I Remember,” “Heaven Sent.” Her outfit for “Heaven Sent” was fire, a white cowboy hat with rhinestone beads on the hat, a white bustier with strings hanging down with rhinestone beads at the end of the string, with a fur skirt wrapped around the bustier. She was just killing it all around. Keisha Cole, you have nothing but praise from me. I bow down. 10 stars. A special thank you to Tresa Sanders and Daylan Cole and BPC for giving me the opportunity to review that magical night.

Keisha Cole   Website | Facebook | YouTUbe | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram |

Trey Songz  Website | Facebook | YouTUbe | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram |   

Kash Doll   Website | Facebook | YouTUbe | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram |    

Mercury Ballroom

Louisville, KY

March 21, 2024

By Shrithik Karthik

Babytron came to the Mercury Ballroom on March 21st after previously being rescheduled to put on a show that led to fans wanting more.

The openers did their job to hype up the crowd but Certified Trapper not being there to perform at all and the entire show running substantially late was quite disappointing in its own regard. The DJ made sure to keep up the energy in the crowd but the loudest the crowd ever was the entire show was when he played “Fighting my demons” by Ken Carson one of the most hype songs in the underground rap scene. The Ken Carson effect if you will, but the energy was never the same.

Babytron was now finally up and after waiting for quite a while, the crowd was excited to see him. Slowly walking out he began to perform but the apparent lack of energy slowly affected the crowd as time went on. Barely smiling, barely moving around with substantial energy, it seemed as if he had zero interest in being there. I will say he did a good job of rapping a lot of the song, the backtrack was very minimal and it was nice to hear him rap his songs. Babytron with his rhythmic, but times-new-roman style of rapping was interesting to hear in person, but the lack of stage presence, production, and visuals made this not as intriguing of a performance as it should have been. The fans were disappointed by the short performance and the concert seemed to have ended much earlier than its stated time. Babytron has been on tour for a while already having performed more than 15 shows on the road and it has been affecting his performances. The concert while being short was by no means bad, it was just an experience that could have been executed differently. As Babytron continues to grow in the rap industry maybe he will come back to deliver a performance that will truly change the game, however, only time can tell.

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