INDIANAPOLIS, IN | I recently attended Brooks & Dunn at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, and despite a few unexpected moments, it was a great night of country music.
The evening began with Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway, who delivered a fabulous set, blending bluegrass, folk, and traditional country. Having had the chance to photograph them a few years ago in Chicago, I can confidently say they’re a band worth seeing on their solo tour. Molly’s virtuoso guitar playing and the band’s tight harmonies really set the tone for the night.
Next up was David Lee Murphy, who gave an enjoyable set that had the crowd vibing. Murphy, a seasoned country artist and hitmaker, treated fans to a mix of his own hits, including the well-loved “Dust on the Bottle,” and some great songs he’s written for others, like “The More I Drink” for Blake Shelton. His easygoing stage presence and knack for connecting with the audience made his performance a nice transition to the headliners.
When Brooks & Dunn took the stage, the energy in the arena skyrocketed. They powered through their catalog of hits, with the crowd singing along to every word. However, during their final song before the encore, Ronnie Dunn had to leave the stage due to feeling ill. It was a bit concerning, but Kix Brooks truly stepped up in the moment, seamlessly taking over Ronnie’s vocals on the last couple of songs. His ability to carry the show without missing a beat was impressive, and he kept the energy high throughout.
Despite Ronnie’s brief absence, the concert was a memorable experience. With hits like “Neon Moon” and “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” Brooks & Dunn reminded everyone why they’re country music icons.
DAVID LEE MURPHY
MOLLY TUTTLE
