Friday, May 5 marked the inaugural concert of Luke Bryan’s Huntin’, Fishin’& Lovin’ Every Day Tour. Luke kicked the tour off in style playing the first of two shows in Nashville in front of a sold-out crowd at Bridgestone arena. As expected, the crowd went wild when the curtain dropped and Luke emerged between flames shooting from the floor to start the show. Luke charmed the crowd with hit singles, a surprise collaboration, and some well-known cover songs.
Bryan thanked openers Adam Craig and Brett Eldredge, as well as giving a special salute to all of the troops in the United States Armed Forces, security guards, teachers, and fire fighters. Bryan then took part in some friendly banter with a local teacher in the audience. This was the first of many interactive moments with the crowd, some light-hearted, and some more seriously expressing deep gratitude for selling out the arena, and making his dreams come true as an artist.
Sentimental moments and photo slide shows became more common as the show went on. While performing “Fast,” the jumbotron displayed images from Luke’s childhood. “All My Friends Say” was also accompanied by a photo slideshow of Luke and friends. Another emotional moment in the show was when Luke had the crowd sing along to “Drink a Beer” in remembrance of friends and family they had lost.
Half way through “Play It Again” a piano surfaced from under the stage, and Luke used it to finish the song. The band accompanied Bryan at center stage to cover “Mountain Music” by Alabama, and “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond.
Towards the end of the show Luke brought out special guest Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town. The two played their duet “Home Alone Tonight.” In the spirit of the duet, and Cinco De Mayo, Luke and Karen took shots of tequila on stage between songs. After the shots, they played Grammy-nominated “Girl Crush.”
Staying consistent with the theme of the tour, and a great night, Bryan finished his set with, “Huntin, Fishin’, and Lovin’ Every Day,” “I Don’t Want This Night To End,” and finally “Country Girl (Shake It For Me).” Bryan closed the show with more theatrics and fan interaction, signing hats and throwing them into the crowd. In addition to passing out memorabilia, Bryan also cracked a few cold ones, and passed out half drank beers into the crowd before exiting the stage.
