Photos and Review by Renee Clark Quade
Lainey Wilson brought a mix of high-energy performances and heartfelt moments to the stage at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview in Syracuse, NY on June 21, 2024. The night was filled with surprises and connections that only deepened her bond with the audience.
She made an unforgettable entrance, perched on top of a truck, exuding her signature style and charm. With the crowd already buzzing, she grabbed her guitar and launched into “Dirty Looks,” setting the tone for a night that would be anything but ordinary.
The stage setup was as dynamic as Wilson herself. The truck, which played a central role throughout the night, rotated around as she moved effortlessly into “Things A Man Oughta Know,” delivering the poignant lyrics while sitting on the tailgate. This blend of visual storytelling and raw musical talent made the performance feel intimate despite the amphitheater’s size.
One of the night’s most touching moments came during her performance of “Dream Catcher.” Wilson invited a couple on stage to share their first dance, a gesture that highlighted her down-to-earth nature and genuine connection with her fans.
“Heart Like a Truck” took the concept of a live performance to a whole new level. Wilson climbed back into the truck, which was rigged with cameras, giving the audience the illusion that she was driving as she sang. Her energy was contagious as she expressed her deep gratitude for their support.
Wilson’s message to the crowd was clear: be proud of where you’ve been, but be even more excited about where you’re headed. This sentiment was beautifully underscored by her performance of “Live Off.”
The night wasn’t just about music; it was about shared experiences. Before performing “Bell Bottoms Up,” she celebrated a fan’s 21st birthday by doing a shot together, adding a personal touch that made the evening even more memorable.
A standout moment was when Wilson brought a young girl on stage for “Atta Girl,” allowing her to sing along and crowning her the “cowgirl of the night” with one of her signature hats. It was a moment of pure joy that resonated with the entire audience.
As the night drew to a close, Wilson’s performance of “Watermelon Moonshine” turned the amphitheater into a sea of lights as the audience lit up their phones, creating a starlit sky that was nothing short of magical. She took a moment to have everyone turn around and take in the breathtaking sight, a shared experience that left everyone in awe.
The concert hit a nostalgic note with a mash-up of 90s country classics, including “Hey, Good Lookin’,” “You Ain’t Woman Enough,” and “Forever and Ever, Amen,” with the crowd singing along to every word. During “Take This Job and Shove It,” Wilson brought out opener Zac Top, showcasing her collaborative spirit.
She then transitioned into an acoustic mash-up of songs she’s performed with other artists, including “Never Say Never” and “Wait in the Truck,” showing off her versatility and emotional depth. Wilson also shared a new song from her upcoming album Whirlwind, “Four by Four by You,” revealing that she’s in a happy and healthy place in her life right now.
Wilson closed the night just as she started—on the truck. She performed “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” before the truck backed into a digital barn backdrop, bringing the show to a fitting and memorable end. The concert was not just a performance; it was a journey through Lainey Wilson’s world, one filled with love, gratitude, and a lot of heart.
See photos from the show below:
