Country Thunder Day 1 Delivers Stellar Performances in Calgary

Day one of the Country Thunder festival in Calgary on July 7, 2023, showcased a blend of established stars and emerging talent, captivating fans of mainstream country music. Headlining the evening, Texas singer-songwriter Cody Johnson impressed the crowd despite battling allergies. His pre-show routine included resting and sipping hot tea, a sensible approach for a performer who ultimately delivered a standout set.

Johnson’s performance at the Confluence was marked by his strong vocal abilities and engaging stage presence. He opened with the fiery anthem “That’s Texas,” accompanied by a medley of country songs that referenced the Lone Star State. Throughout his set, he shared personal anecdotes and motivational messages, making his connection with the audience feel genuine and heartfelt.

While Johnson is now a seasoned veteran with over twenty years in the industry, he retains a relatable charm. He emphasized themes of resilience, sharing his journey from early rejections to success, and offered songs such as “With You I Am,” “Dear Rodeo,” and “How Do You Sleep at Night?” which resonated deeply with the audience.

Supporting Acts Bring Energy and Variety

The lineup also featured Canadian artists Tim Hicks, Julia Vos, and Drew Gregory, alongside American singer-songwriter Avery Anna, who stood out for her refreshing style. Hicks, known for his energetic performances, kicked off his set with “Shake These Walls” and provided a light-hearted commentary on country music themes, including trucks and tequila. His hit “Stronger Beer” became a crowd-favourite singalong, highlighting his knack for engaging the audience.

Edmonton’s Julia Vos opened the main stage, stepping in as a last-minute replacement for Ashley McBryde. Despite the challenge, Vos captivated the audience with a mix of covers and original material. Her rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” and an energetic version of Brooks and Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” showcased her vocal range and stage presence.

Next, Drew Gregory brought his own brand of country music, blending hard-rock influences with traditional sounds. His performance featured tracks like “Better in a Bar” and “Neon Time,” supported by a talented backup band that elevated the overall experience.

Avery Anna Shines with Originality

A standout of the evening was Avery Anna, who leaned more heavily on her original songs. At just 21, she presented a mix of covers and self-penned tracks, including “Breakup Over Breakfast” and the emotionally charged “It’s Just Rainin’.” Her bold choice to cover Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” added a unique twist to her set, demonstrating her ability to innovate within the genre.

Overall, the first day of Country Thunder proved a successful blend of familiarity and new experiences. While some attendees may find the festival’s lineup predictable, the performances offered comfort and enjoyment for fans of country music. With a strong start, Country Thunder continues on Saturday with performances from Bailey Zimmerman, Jake Owen, and more, promising another day filled with music and camaraderie.