Despite a sudden thunderstorm rolling in around 6 p.m., thousands of enthusiastic fans remained undeterred as they eagerly awaited Darius Rucker's performance at Kidd Brewer Stadium on Saturday, July 29. The rain and lightning caused a slight delay, with the gates opening an hour later than planned. But, the resilience of the fans paid off as the show went on!
Around 7:30 p.m., once the lightning cleared the area, the stadium welcomed the eager fans inside. The evening's entertainment began with the talented Lindsay Ell taking the stage at 8:30 p.m., setting the tone for an unforgettable night. Then, at 9:15 p.m., the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as Darius Rucker, the frontman of Hootie and the Blowfish, took center stage to mesmerize the crowd.
The occasion marked the grand finale of the 39th season of An Appalachian Summer Festival, making it all the more special. Rucker's performance lasted for over an hour and a half, and he captivated the audience with his incredible talent and charisma.
During the show, Rucker shared a nostalgic sentiment, declaring that this summer was a throwback to the '90s. He delighted the crowd by playing classic hits like TLC's "Waterfalls," evoking memories and emotions from the past.
Amidst the euphoria of the night, Rucker expressed his gratitude, stating, "I can't believe I get to play in this stadium." The connection between the artist and the fans was palpable, making the evening truly memorable.
And, of course, what would a Darius Rucker concert be without his a North Carolina favorite and Old Crow Medicine Show cover, "Wagon Wheel"? The crowd erupted in joy as he closed the show with this beloved tune, leaving everyone with a sense of fulfillment and joy.
Approximately 13,000 people witnessed this unforgettable performance, proving that even a little rain and lightning couldn't dampen the spirits of true music lovers. It was an incredible night filled with passion, talent, and an unstoppable spirit that will be remembered for years to come.
