No amount of rain could deter country fans from witnessing a landmark performance by Kenny Chesney this past weekend. Already the genre’s top touring act, Chesney surpassed the previous 1983 record of most country tickets sold in the New York/New Jersey area, according to a representative for Chesney, when he played the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Saturday.
The previous title was held by Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard and Linda Ronstadt, who drew more than 51,000 in 1983. Chesney’s show Saturday with Zac Brown Band, Billy Currington and Uncle Kracker exceeded 1983’s record with 55,239 tickets.
Not an easy feat, Chesney proved just why he’s a must-see act for country fans. Performing for well over two hours, his electric live show impressed. Remarkably personable, he told many of the stories behind his songs and then dedicated each track to audience members in similar situations. There were songs about following your dreams, including the energetic “Big Star,” to every form of love imaginable. Love at first sight (“Anything But Mine”), love that’s not good for you (“You and Tequila”) and love of football (“Boys of Fall”).
For my complete review, visit Rolling Stone.