Photos by Renee Clark Quade and Review by Rebecca Clark
As the anticipation built in the venue on June 25th at Point of the Bluff Vineyards, the crowd held its breath in eager anticipation. When Josh Turner finally took the stage, the energy in the room was electric. The crowd’s collective excitement was palpable, and it was immediately clear that this was going to be a special night.
One of the first things that struck me was the depth and richness of Turner’s voice. In a time when much of country radio seems to have moved away from the traditional twang and depth of the old country sound, Turner’s voice was like a refreshing blast from the past. It was a reminder of the authentic, soulful sound that has been somewhat missing from the mainstream country scene. The industry truly needs more of this deep, resonant sound.
During his second song, “Firecracker,” the crowd began to come alive. Some of the initially reserved audience members finally stood up, caught up in the infectious energy of the music. The full band behind Turner added to the experience, filling the venue with a robust, dynamic sound that only a live performance can achieve.
“Deep South” was a standout moment of the night, with Turner’s endearing dance alongside his guitar and fiddle player. His engagement with the crowd was remarkable, and his banter between songs created a warm and intimate atmosphere. When he mentioned the 20th anniversary of “Long Black Train,” there was a mix of nostalgia and laughter in the air. Turner’s playful demeanor and witty commentary endeared him to the audience even more.
Turner’s setlist was a perfect blend of old and new, showcasing his versatility and range as an artist. Songs like “Left Hand Man,” “Country State of Mind,” and “Never Had a Reason” flowed seamlessly, each one adding a layer to the night’s musical tapestry.
A truly captivating moment came during “Me and God,” where the double bass was brought out and Turner’s band members gathered closely around him. The sense of camaraderie and musical synergy was evident, adding an intimate touch to the performance.
The renditions of “I Pray My Way Out of Trouble” and Hank Williams’ classic “I Saw the Light” were captivating. Turner’s ability to infuse new life into these timeless tunes was awe-inspiring, and the crowd’s energetic dancing during the latter song created a unique blend of gospel and dance club vibes, as he humorously dubbed it since he had never seen people dance to it until that night.
In a lighthearted interlude, Turner took the time to share details about his merchandise, injecting humor and charm into his “infomercial.” From his quirky remarks about hats looking “good on ugly and pretty people,” to a meaningful charitable initiative to provide bibles to the military from the proceeds of a t-shirt. His playful approach to discussing the merchandise added an extra layer of entertainment to the evening.
As the concert continued, the crowd’s enthusiasm showed no signs of winding down. With each song, Turner and his band effortlessly kept the energy levels high. Hits like “Would You Go with Me,” “Everything is Fine,” “Time is Love,” “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” and “Lights Down Low” had the entire venue swaying, clapping, and singing along.
As the night drew to a close, the unmistakable sound of a train filled the air. Turner returned to the stage for an encore, ending the evening on a high note with his iconic song “Long Black Train.” It was the perfect conclusion to celebrate the 20th Anniversary to that album and was a night filled with heartwarming music, engaging banter, and a sense of unity between Turner and his adoring fans.
In a world where musical trends come and go, Josh Turner’s concert was a reminder of the enduring power of true country music. With his soul-stirring voice, skilled band, and genuine connection with the crowd, Turner transported us to a place where the rich traditions of country music still thrive. It was a night to remember, leaving us with a renewed appreciation for the timeless sounds that continue to shape what country music is today.
Josh Turner Photo Gallery
