Fans were out in force and ready for a good time on November 2, 2015 – the Royals won the World Series and Jamey Johnson was playing at the Uptown Theater in Kansas City, MO.
Having played in the area several times before, openers Whiskey Myers have their own local following and it was apparent that their fans were there to offer their support. The seven piece band made great use of their short time on stage, ensuring that everyone got to hear a wide variety of what they have to offer. The band played a wise selection of their original hits mixed with a few covers guaranteeing they had something to offer everyone.
Whiskey Myers has unmistakable musical talent, the sheer number of different instruments on stage helps showcase this throughout their set. In addition to acoustic and electric guitars, bass guitars, drums, and piano, the band also features a fiddle, saxophone, harmonica, and everyone’s favorite “crazy tambourine man,” who is well loved amongst local fans. Doing exactly what is asked of any opening act, Whiskey Myers, got the audience enthused and engaged and left them wanting more as they prepared for headliner Jamey Johnson to take the stage.
Johnson took the stage with “High Cost of Living,” his 2009 single from The Lonesome Song album. As if that hadn’t already won the audience over, Johnson then congratulated the crowd of the Royals World Series win, joking that he wouldn’t have been there if they’d lost. From there Johnson went on to captivate audience members for well over two hours; belting out song after song with his soothing and unwavering voice.
Jamey had audience members singing along as he performed a variety of his own songs such as “In Color” and “The Dollar.” Fans could definitely see the story being painted in front of them as they connected to each of Mr. Johnson’s songs, many of them even bringing tears to the audience’s eyes.
In addition to his own music Jamey paid homage to many of the industries greats covering Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, George Strait, Patsy Cline, David Allan Coe, and Keith Whitley; each one done with great respect, and still allowing Johnson to add a bit of his own touch and flare.
Towards the end of the night there were a variety of patriotic songs covered, including a breathtaking cover of “This Land is Your Land,” leaving many commenting that it was the best they’d ever heard the song done.
After hours of performance Jamey closed the night with Hank Williams’ “I Saw the Light.” It was an amazing night of music, and there are few artists that can stand on stage for hours giving it their all the way Jamey does. His performance shows not only his remarkable musical ability, but also the value and joy he puts on music in his life. As he stood on stage his voice helped audience members paint a picture so each of them could see the story he was telling, and you could see Jamey’s pride swell as this happened song after song.
If you ever want to see someone stand on stage and let their talent speak for itself, Jamey Johnson is the one to go see. He is an amazing artist and song-writer, and there are few out there that could match his talent and dedication.