Quote:
For my money, of today's prominent performers, Keith Urban is the best performer going. He just barely edges out Brad Paisley, who is also absolutely amazing in concert. I slightly prefer a Paisley show just because I prefer his music to Urban's, but I'll jump at any chance to see either one in person.
Of the popular country acts today, I think the only ones I haven't seen in person are Tim McGraw, Lady Antebellum, and the Zac Brown Band. I don't care about Tim McGraw much at all, but I badly want to see Zac Brown given how great his band is on award show performances, and would definitely like to see Lady A also.
Zac Brown Band doing Devil Went Down to Georgia on the CMAs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QVWQTDoMr4
(I liked it better the last time I looked up that video and the top-rated comment was "My ears just came.")
I completely agree with the bolded. I'm not a huge Keith Urban fan myself, but I do know quite a few giant Keith Urban marks.
I've seen Paisley live 3 times, and every time he gets better. The interaction between the band and his fans is ridiculous, as well as the flash animations (which he does himself) that play throughout most of the show. As far as entertaining goes, he's clearly in the top tier in North America.
The last show I saw was Don Williams, and for being in his 70's, the man can still sing. The last two times I've seen Charlie Pride live he was a wreck and could barely sing. He basically just told stories for a few hours. George Jones was pretty terrible last time, as well, which is sad. He's so classic that I truly did not want to be disappointed, but I was.
Now, Stompin' Tom Connors is probably my all-time favourite. I've seen him live every chance I've been able to. I've caught him 6 times. It's the same show every time, but I just can't help and enjoy it.
Prairie Oyster is one band I miss and wish would keep putting out albums. Very obscure (nowadays), but still some classic bluegrass melodies.
Prairie Oyster:
Did You Fall in Love with Me
One Precious Love
One Way Track
One Kiss
Only One Moon
She Won't Be Lonely Long