Review and Photos by Nadine Swiger

Bret Michaels’ performance at the NY State Fair was a good ol’ night of rock n’ roll that left fans exhilarated. Known for his front man role in Poison, Michaels once again took command of the stage and uplifted the crowd. This time around, Michaels is with his own band – The Bret Michaels Band, as they embark on the Party Gras Tour. The tour was a way for him to show appreciation to his fans, friends, and family, and the NYS Fairgrounds was a perfect stop for the Marti Gras-themed celebration.

The evening was a barrage of hits spanning Michaels’ career, from the early days of Poison with classics like “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Look What the Cat Dragged In,” and “Your Mama Don’t Dance,” to later hits like “Ride the Wind,” “Unskinny Bop,” “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” and “Something to Believe In.” The audience was treated to a sonic journey through the evolution of his music.

One of the tour’s highlights is the surprise guest appearances, where Michaels invites his musician friends to join him on stage. The NY State Fair show was no exception. Brian West from Tesla took the stage with Michaels and his band for a special rendition of “Nothing But A Good Time.” Before they closed out the night with a cover of “Sweet Home Alabama” that injected an extra layer of Southern rock nostalgia into the mix.

The synergy between Michaels and his guest performers was magical, creating moments that resonated deeply with the audience. The show was a testament to the enduring power of Bret Michaels’ music and his ability to create an electric atmosphere that brings people together for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

The Party Gras Tour continues across North America until Dec 2023. Michaels is also scheduled to play on the Rock Legends Cruise (Feb 22-24, 2024). So watch for The Bret Michaels Band to play near you!

BRET MICHAELS BAND PHOTO GALLERY: