Alondra Rosales, waiting with an umbrella and her boots off, reminisced about the early days of Morgan Wallen before he skyrocketed to country music fame. She recalled his appearance in 2014 on “The Voice,” where he made a lasting impression despite being eliminated.
Fast forward eleven years, Wallen is now a dominant force in country music, and his recent concerts at Camp Randall Stadium mark a significant milestone as these are the first concerts held there since 1997, ending a 26-year drought. This weekend’s shows not only kicked off Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” tour but also heralded the return of live music to the stadium, with Coldplay set to perform there in July.
Amid the bustling pre-concert atmosphere, fans adorned in cowboy boots and denim filled the streets surrounding the stadium, as bars hosted lively outdoor events and enterprising individuals offered parking for steep prices. Many fans, like Mallory Blabaum celebrating her birthday, expressed their excitement to be part of this historic event. The enthusiasm was palpable, with fans bonding over their favorite Wallen tracks.
Wallen’s latest album, “I’m the Problem,” released in May, has added to his impressive legacy, following a record 19-week run for his previous album atop the Billboard 200. Despite past controversies, including a guilty plea in 2024 for an unrelated incident, Wallen’s popularity only continues to flourish, fueling interest in country music.
As the crowd gathered, entrepreneurs like Natasha Clark, selling cowboy hats, noted the growing appeal of the genre, attributing much of this rise to Wallen’s influence. Fans eagerly awaited the spectacle, excited to see Wallen alongside other artists like Miranda Lambert and Ella Langley.
With the return of concerts to Camp Randall Stadium, Wallen’s performance represents not only his personal milestone but also a revival of live music in the region, bringing together fans to celebrate a shared passion for country music. The positive energy and excitement shared by those attending illustrate the bright future for live events in the area.