CMT Blog: Archive

We had three shows with Jason Aldean this past weekend. The first was in La Crosse, Wis., where the crowd was noisy, excited, and the place was packed. We shared the stage with Gloriana, as well, in LaCrosse and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where we played the second night. It was a fun lineup to be sure. I can't think of a more fun group of guys to be on the road with than Jason and his crew, nor can I think of a better musical match. For a true blue country act, no one rocks harder than Jason, and I don't think it's any secret that there are rock and classic rock influences in our stuff, as well, so it's a lot of fun. We love talking shop and comparing musical notes and ideas with his players.

But the best thing about these shows (not to belabor the point) is the crowds! They are UNREAL! Pure, unbridled energy. Some of my other favorite things may be a little more unexpected: I LOVE the moment we're standing next to the stage right before we are announced. My heart is racing, my adrenaline is up -- I feel like an NFL player waiting in the tunnel before a game. I have to refrain from hitting people. ... OK, that's not true, but you get the point. It's a natural high that is greater than anything!

The third night of the run was in Muncie, Ind., on the Ball State campus. Although the room was a bit smaller than the other two, it actually was an eye-opening night for me. The response we got after the show was unbelievable! There were SO many people, and they were so excited, so supportive -- so into it! It was encouraging and gave me an even deeper appreciation for those who come out to these shows. While making our way out to the merch stand to meet everyone, we got lost in the halls of this building (the theater was attached to the music department, I believe) but when we finally found our way to the front, we were greeted warmly by an incredibly enthusiastic crowd. It was actually a bit unexpected to me. As the new kids in town, you never know who knows who you are -- or cares -- nor do you know just what they think of you. But we felt so loved and welcome, it be became, unexpectedly, one of my favorite moments yet! We always hang around afterwards to meet everyone who wants to say hi, take photos and sign autographs. And that's where things get fun. We meet so many cool people (I'm a compulsive people-watcher, so I'm like a kid in a candy store!) and it's a constant reminder that it's all about connecting with people. We are flattered by every single person who waits around to meet us. But what's more, in Muncie, the line went out the door and into the freezing cold! And people waited there just to say hi, to shake hands, take a few pictures and chat for a few seconds! What greater compliment is there?

Well, I'm in a hotel room right now. I'm off to pay exorbitant amounts to watch the movie Funny People in my hotel room. On Friday (Oct. 30), we share an evening in Murray, Ky., with Jason. Lookin' forward to tellin' you all about it!

-- Brian Bandas