Slick Rock Entertainment Magazine

The Woods at Fontanel in Nashville, TN were very proud to be the host of Willie Nelson’s Country Throwdown Tour. This is the second year that country legend Willie Nelson has hosted a 24-city outdoor amphitheater concert tour. This year’s lineup was full of different styles, genres, and unbelievable talent. Willie along with Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, Craig Campbell, Luke Nelson & The Promise of the Real Deal, Drake White and many others performers gave the fans who came out despite the grueling heat , a show they will never forget! All of these artists rocked the stage for thousands of fans from all over the United States to watch one unbelievable show!

We had the opportunity to speak with two of Country Music’s fast rising Newcomers, Craig Campbell and Brantley Gilbert. Both of these artists have singles that are rapidly climbing the country music charts. Craig’s lead single “Family Man” was a Top 15 hit for him, and his new single “Fish” has the promise of doing the exact same thing. He is no stranger to the country music industry, he started out as a demo singer and then played keyboard in Luke Bryan and Tracy Byrd’s bands. Craig recently had the honor of playing at the Grand ole Opry’s 85th birthday celebration. When we asked him what that was like he said “it is an honor to play at the Opry anytime but this was extra special, to stand in that circle where your musical hero’s have stood, it’s just unbelievable.” Craig is definitely doing what he loves to do and that shows in his writing and when he steps out on the stage to perform!

Brantley Gilbert who has written many hits for Jason Aldean such as, “The Best of Me”, My Kinda Party”, and Dirt Road Anthem”, is no stranger to the music industry. Brantley has been on the road for several years playing shows and building his fan base, now known as the “BG Nation”. Brantley’s new single “Country Must Be Country Wide” is climbing the charts and gives us just a sample of the great music on his sophomore album “Halfway To Heaven”. We asked him what it was like being on the Country Throwdown Tour he said” there is never a dull moment and he is honored to be associated with such a fine group of artists.” With his southern rock style the “BG Nation” is spreading like wildfire, when he takes the stage to perform his fans sing along with every word of every song. The energy displayed when he performs gets everybody out of their seat. Whether you are 2 or 92 you will love the show that Brantley and his band put on!

From the moment the very first performer takes the stage until The “Red Headed Stranger” ends the night you are most definitely going to leave with great memories of a one of a kind country music experience.

Lori …

Photos by: Lori and Brandi