On Thursday night, a star-studded lineup energized audiences in West Michigan as Chris Stapleton captivated a packed Van Andel Arena, kicking off a two-night performance. The Southern soul and country artist opened with his latest single, “Bad As I Used to Be,” delivering a playful nod to fans: “I bet you thought you’d seen the last of me.” This statement resonated with dedicated followers, many of whom were set to see him again during the weekend.
Chris Stapleton stands out in the music industry by offering a unique blend of genres that transcends traditional country music. His repertoire includes soulful tracks like “Think I’m in Love With You” and “Cold,” along with Southern rock anthems such as “Parachute” and “Arkansas.” With our current music landscape dominated by a more commercialized country-pop sound, Stapleton’s authentic style brings a refreshing authenticity that fans appreciate.
Backed by a talented six-piece band, Stapleton’s powerful voice reached emotional heights during songs like “Cold” and “Sometimes I Cry.” Among the audience was renowned Michigan rock artist Bob Seger, known for his own soulful vocals that bear similarities to Stapleton’s sound. Throughout the night, the enthusiastic crowd eagerly sang along to popular hits like “Nobody to Blame” and “White Horse,” eagerly participating in the electrifying atmosphere.
As the evening progressed, Stapleton reminded fans to let their worries go while performing “Worry B Gone.” The concert began with a powerful opening set from Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs. Campbell, famed for his work with Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, energized fans with his own tracks and notable covers from Petty’s catalogue, declaring, “You’re now all members of the ‘Knob Mob.’” The audience erupted in cheers as he left the stage, only to later return for a memorable performance of Petty’s “I Should Have Known It” during Stapleton’s show, adding to the night’s excitement.
This memorable concert not only showcased Stapleton’s exceptional musicianship and versatility but also solidified the West Michigan music scene as a vibrant hub for live performances. Fans left the venue uplifted, celebrating the night’s musical offerings and eagerly anticipating the upcoming second night of Stapleton’s run.