From cowboy boots to bell bottoms with a flare, country music is in full swing this summer, getting people on their feet and ready to whoop and hollar! With country music on the rise, live music events are drawing crowds from all over, with stadiums and amphitheaters filling with fans eager to enjoy some down-home music. Country music concerts, known for their lively atmosphere, are a popular choice for many looking to kick off the season with energy and excitement.
From rising new artists to country songs dominating the Billboard charts, there is truly never a dull moment in the industry. Country music concerts have seen a noticeable rise in popularity, indicating a shift in the genre as a whole. The growth in popularity can also be attributed to country artists experimenting with various sub-genres and collaborations, recreating what is traditionally considered “country music.” This evolution has not only regenerated the genre but also made it more accessible to listeners and an inclusive concert environment. Lyla Brown, a junior and a huge country music fan herself, shared, “I think some country music has evolved to a more pop-music vibe, which is cool, because it is giving it a different perspective and adds a new element to original country music.”
As summer concert season approaches, venues are welcoming both new and established country artists. The Anthem, located in Washington, D.C., is hosting Megan Moroney’s “Am I Okay” tour May 21 and 22 at 8:00 p.m. Another venue, Nationals Park, will feature Post Malone on Monday, June 2 at 7:30 p.m. A popular destination, Jiffy Lube Live in Gainesville, Virginia, has many country music concerts coming up. Dierks Bentley will perform on Friday, July 11 at 7 p.m. Lastly, Thomas Rhett has his “Better in Boots” tour on Friday, August 22 at 7:30 p.m., with rising star Tucker Wetmore, whose hit single “Wind Up Missing You” peaked No. 11 on the Billboard Hot Country songs and No. 31 on the Hot 100 in 2024, opening for him.
Brown also shared, “This summer, I plan to see Lainey Wilson in concert. I am really excited and looking forward to seeing her. She always puts on a great show. My favorite country artists are Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, and Chris Stapleton.” According to Billboard’s 2024 rankings, these artists are in the top ten for hottest country songs.
Summer country concert season is more than just music—it is about gathering with your family and friends, making memories, and enjoying the pure joy of live performances from your favorite artists. Maria Kakorus, a junior who shares her passion for country music, concluded, “I love listening to country music. It makes me feel a rush of adrenaline and makes me excited for summer. I love being able to drive with the windows down, enjoy a summer day at the pool, have barbecues, and late summer nights that I always want to remember.”
In considering your entertainment options this summer, you should think about seeing a country music concert. It is a great way to expand your musical horizons and fully experience the depth of country music.