Gary Allan Gives Intimate Performance At The Genesee Theater

Country music fans were treated to an incredible night of live music, at the historic Genesee Theater in Waukegan, IL. The theater, which opened its doors to the public in 1928, has a rich history as a community center and venue for high-quality entertainment. It was clear from the moment I stepped inside that this was going to be a special evening, as the theater was packed with fans eagerly anticipating the Ruthless Tour featuring Gary Allan.

Photos By: Nashville Is His Bride

Rising star Greylan James took the stage as the opening act. James, a talented singer, songwriter, and musician hailing from Knoxville, TN, has been making waves in the country music scene over the past few years. With hits like "Anything Cold" and "2 Years Back," James has already gained a loyal following and is well on his way. James got the crowd going with his unique blend of country and rock. The young musician had already made a name for himself in Nashville as a songwriter, penning hits for the likes of Jordan Davis, Kenny Chesney, Cole Swindell, Blake Shelton, and Chris Young. But tonight, he was here to showcase his own material.

James took the stage to thunderous applause from the audience, who were clearly excited to see him perform. He launched into a set filled with catchy tunes and powerful vocals, showcasing his skills as a guitar player, singer, and songwriter. One highlight of his performance was "Young Man” a heartfelt song about his grandpa.

James also treated fans to some of his most popular cuts, including "Happy Does" and "How Is She," both of which got the crowd on their feet and dancing along. The energy in the theater was electric during James' set, and it was clear that he had won over the audience with his impressive talent and infectious personality. One moment stopped the crowd in their tracks, Earlier in the day Greylan found out he was nominated for Song of The Year by the CMA’s. He was a co-writer on the smash Jordan Davis hit "Next Thing You Know". He then delivered his emotional & heartfelt rendition of what could be one of the truest songs of our time, You could hear a pin drop inside the Genesee Theater. As Greylan wrapped up his set, the audience rose to their feet in appreciation. He had definitely made some new fans tonight.

“'Cause next thing you know, you’re wearin' scrubs and a funny white hat, And the doctor's sayin', "How you doin' there, dad?" And nobody's ever called you that.”

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Check Out More On Greylan James!

We recently had Greylan James on the podcast.

The lights dimmed and Gary Allan, a country music legend with more than two decades of experience in the industry, took the stage to thunderous applause from the packed theater. He launched into a set filled with hits both old and new, showcasing his impressive vocal range and undeniable stage presence. With his gravelly voice and emotionally charged lyrics, Allan proved to be a true master of his craft. Each song he played was like a small snapshot of a moment in time, perfectly capturing the pain, joy, and heartbreak of the human experience.

Gary's setlist was a mix of old favorites and newer material from his latest album "Ruthless." They kicked off the night with "The Hard Way," a crowd favorite from Allan's latest album. From there, the hits kept coming, with Allan delivering powerful renditions of "Right Where I Need To Be," "Nothing On But The Radio," and "Man To Man." The energy in the theater was electric, and the crowd sang along to every word, proving that Gary Allan has one of the most devoted fanbases in all of country music.

Throughout the night, Gary's band was in top form, with each member showcasing their skills during extended solos. The lighting and sound design were also top-notch, adding an extra layer of atmosphere to the already electrifying performance. Songs like "Tough Little Boys" and "The One" showcased Allan's incredible ability to tap into the raw emotions that make us all human. And when he played "Every Storm (Runs Out Of Rain)," the audience sang along as if it were a hymn. Speaking of the audience singing along Gary needed them during his acoustic version of “SEX” when a few of the lyrics got him tongue-tied. Allan proved himself to be a seasoned performer with an incredible stage presence. His easy-going demeanor and confident swagger were on full display as he interacted with the audience, telling stories and cracking jokes.  

One of the standout moments of the night was Allan's performance of "Life Aint Always Beautiful," a heartbreaking ballad that had the entire theater swaying back and forth. Allan's voice was hauntingly beautiful, and it was clear that the song held a special place in the hearts of many of his fans. Allan closed out his set with “Songs About Rain”, and "Man of Me" from his 2001 album, "Alright Guy," the crowd sang along as Allan's rich baritone voice filled the venue, but the crowd wasn't ready to let Allan go just yet, and they cheered loudly as he returned to the stage for an encore. Allan performed two more songs, "Watching Airplanes and "It Aint The Whiskey," leaving the audience breathless with emotion and awe. Allan's performance was nothing short of electric, with each song building upon the last to create an unforgettable night of music.

As the lights came up and the theater emptied out, it was clear that the night had been a special one. Gary Allan delivered a masterful performance, proving that he is one of the most talented and respected artists in country music today. The Genesee Theater has once again proved that it is one of the premier venues for live entertainment in the Midwest, steeped in history and rich in tradition. Gary Allan is a true icon of country music, and his concert at the Genesee Theater in Waukegan was a testament to his skill and talent. For anyone who loves real, raw, emotionally charged music, seeing Gary Allan live is an absolute must.

Catch Gary Allan On Tour!  

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Gary Allan Set List Genesse Theater Waukegan, IL

The Hard Way

Right Where I Need to Be

Nothing on but the Radio

Man to Man

Waste of a Whiskey Drink

It Would Be You

Guys Like Me

A Showman's Life (Jesse Winchester cover)

Temptation

Her Man (Waylon Jennings cover)

Tough Little Boys

The One

SEX (Acoustic)

Smoke Rings in the Dark

Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain)

Life Ain't Always Beautiful

Best I Ever Had (Vertical Horizon cover)

Ruthless

Songs About Rain

Man of Me

Encore:

It Ain't the Whiskey

Watching Airplanes