Canada’s first glimpse of Luke Combs

 The line up started early and grew down the block filled with eager fans waiting to fill the Commodore Ballroom. Despite being new to mainstream country, Luke Combs captured the attention of Canadians with his first number one hit Hurricane quickly followed by When it Rains it Pours. These hits were all Canadians needed to sell out his first show in Canada featuring Drew Parker and Ashley McBryde.

Drew Parker’s solo performance set the stage for the energy to come revving up the crowd early in the night.

Despite spending 25 hours stranded in Washington due to bus troubles, Ashley McBryde and her band made it to Vancouver to put on an amazing set. The American artist seemed astonished that the North of the border crowd knew some of her songs as they began to sing along. Ashley’s honest sound is one we’re sure we’ll be hearing more of soon enough. Any artist endorsed by the Chief himself has a bright future and her grit and passion will be sure to capture mainstream attention.

Luke Combs came out swinging and the general admission floor quickly filled with eager fans of all ages. Luke was interactive with the crowd giving insight into the set list and connecting over common experiences. Even though he is young and has but two number ones in Canada he proved he can stand with the best of them by covering Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whiskey and show casing his soulful voice. Luke was humble throughout his set by highlighting his band members, thanking his fans and letting us know where he can from and how he has not forgotten his roots despite his recent rise to fame.

Last night’s lineup at the Commodore proves to be nothing less than the future of country music. Mixing new country themes and experiences with the soul, passion and raw talent of old country. It may have been the first Canadian show of Drew Parker, Ashley McBryde and Luke Combs’ careers but it will definitely not be their last and Canada should be excited for what is yet to come.

Review: Haley Campbell