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Concert Review: Randy Travis | |
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Reviewed by Mike A.
I go to a lot of concerts by some of the biggest names in the business. But it's not often you get to sit four feet away from one of Country Music's legendary performers and listen to him do all of the hits you know every word too. But it was my extreme pleasure to do just that Saturday night September 27th when Randy Travis took the WDRM Country 102.1 stage at Huntsville, Alabama's Big Spring Jam.
A crowd of at least 20,000 fans filled every inch of the road that served as the venue for this show, and many more crowded the surrounding park and parking lots to hear Randy Travis open his set with "Before You Kill Us All" one of his fun, upbeat songs that takes a unique look at loosing the woman you love.
Randy would go on to perform most of his biggest hits, while sharing funny stories with the crowd who were hung on every word. "So I was here about ten or fifteen years ago, and was staying at a hotel somewhere around here - I forget the name. Anyway, I was coming down out of the elevator and I saw a man carrying several suitcases who smiled and said 'We's gonna stay the night.' and all I could say is. 'Great. I did that last night, I think you'll like it.' "
Travis got a huge response to his recent No. 1 hit "Three Wooden Crosses" which he performs with passion and heart, seemingly on the verge of tears as he does it. He then introduced his latest single, "Pray for the Fish" a hilarious, yet heart-warming song about a man with a few too many sins to be washed away at his baptism. I love this song because it is just a lot of fun to hear and sing along with.
Randy returned to 'the oldies' which included "Too Gone, Too Long" and "Just a Matter of Time" before reaching his most recognizable hit "Forever and Ever, Amen." which earned him his first standing ovation of the night.
Closing the show on a high note, he performed his post 9/11 anthem "America Will Always Stand" to the roars of the crowd while a huge American flag rose from below the stage. Truly a great night, and a great performance.
It had been nearly fourteen years since the last time I had seen Randy in concert, and the time has taken nothing away from this very talented singing cowboy. I would gladly see him tomorrow if I could, and if you get the chance to do that you undoubtedly should!
Set List: