Country music star Thomas Rhett recently announced his 2023 Bring the Bar to You tour, which kicks off in June. As one of the genre’s most popular artists right now, Thomas Rhett is sure to draw big crowds to his shows this summer. Fans are excited to see Thomas Rhett perform hits like “Die a Happy Man,” “Marry Me,” and “Slow Down Summer.”
However, before Thomas Rhett takes the stage each night, audiences will be treated to sets by opening acts Parker McCollum and Conner Smith. This has led many country music lovers to ask: Who exactly are Parker McCollum and Conner Smith? And what can Thomas Rhett fans expect from these up-and-coming openers?
All About Parker McCollum
Parker McCollum is a rising star in the country music world originally from Conroe, Texas. Growing up, McCollum listened to country greats like Willie Nelson, Randy Rogers, Pat Green, and Jack Ingram. After high school, McCollum began playing shows around Texas, building up a following as an independent artist.
In 2013, McCollum released his debut album “Limestone Kid.” He continued honing his live show and growing his fanbase around Texas over the next few years. Then in 2019, McCollum broke out with his album “Probably Wrong,” which included his hit single “Pretty Heart.” The song went viral on TikTok and helped propel McCollum into the national spotlight.
Since then, McCollum has continued his upward trajectory with songs like “To Be Loved By You” and his latest single “Handle On You.” His sound combines the southern rock and outlaw country influences of his Texas roots with a contemporary, crossover-friendly edge. McCollum’s heartfelt songwriting and high-energy live performances have earned him praise for bringing a fresh sound to the country genre.
Some key facts about Parker McCollum:
- From Conroe, Texas
- Broke out in 2019 with hit “Pretty Heart”
- Has opened for acts like Miranda Lambert and Dierks Bentley
- Nominated for 2022 CMA New Artist of the Year
- Latest single is 2023’s “Handle On You”
As an opener for Thomas Rhett, fans can expect an entertaining set from McCollum full of his chart-topping songs. His outlaw-meets-pop country style pairs well with Thomas Rhett’s danceable, good-time anthems. McCollum’s high energy and swagger on stage make him a great choice to get audiences pumped up for the headliner.
All About Conner Smith
Joining Parker McCollum as an opener on the Thomas Rhett tour is newcomer Conner Smith. Hailing from Nashville, Smith grew up playing country and gospel music. Before launching his solo career, Smith sang background vocals for artists like Luke Bryan.
In 2021, Smith released his debut single “I Hate Alabama.” The deeply personal song shot up the iTunes Country chart, thanks in part to its TikTok fame. Smith has followed it up with other well-received tracks like “Whiskey on You” and “Learn From It.” Throughout his songs, Smith weaves relatable storytelling with smooth vocals and contemporary production.
Though still early in his recording career, Smith has already shared the stage with big names like Jake Owen, Cole Swindell, and Morgan Wallen. Touring with Thomas Rhett will expose Smith to huge arena crowds and help grow his fanbase nationally.
Here are some key details on Conner Smith:
- From Nashville, TN
- Broke out with 2021 single “I Hate Alabama”
- Has opened for Jake Owen, Cole Swindell and others
- Known for blending traditional and pop country sounds
- Latest single is 2022’s “Learn From It”
During his opening sets, Smith will likely perform his handful of hit singles so far along with other original tunes. Fans can anticipate his soulful voice and cultivated songcraft on display. Like Parker McCollum, Smith’s dynamic performing style pairs naturally with Thomas Rhett’s high-energy brand of country music.
Why Thomas Rhett’s Tour is Highly Anticipated
As one of the most popular male vocalists in country currently, Thomas Rhett has cultivated a huge fanbase eager to see him live. Here are some reasons why his 2023 Bring the Bar to You tour is so highly anticipated:
- Hits for days – Thomas Rhett has amassed an impressive string of hit singles over his career so far, including 13 #1 country chart toppers. Fans are excited to hear their favorites like “Die a Happy Man,” “Crash and Burn,” and “Country Again.”
- High energy shows – Thomas Rhett is known for his lively, dance-filled concerts where he really connects with crowds. The party atmosphere will be enhanced by the tour’s name, encouraging fans to “bring the bar” to their city.
- Production spectacle – As he’s graduated to arena headliner status, Thomas Rhett has ramped up the production values for an awe-inspiring visual experience. The tour promises flashing lights, video boards and more.
- Red-hot momentum – Coming off his 2022 album Where We Started, Thomas Rhett is riding high. Several tracks off the project have already raced up the charts.
- Critical acclaim – Beyond commercial success, reviewers consistently praise Thomas Rhett’s songwriting and ability to balance tradition with pop sensibilities.
The combination of Thomas Rhett’s hit discography, reputation for energetic sets, and current high profile in the country scene is driving huge interest in the tour. It’s sure to be one of the hottest country music events of 2023.
Set Lists Thomas Rhett Fans Can Expect
While Thomas Rhett will likely mix up his set lists as the tour goes on, fans can count on hearing many of his beloved hits. Here are some of the songs Thomas Rhett devotees are most likely to hear at the Bring the Bar to You concerts:
Likely Songs |
---|
Die A Happy Man |
Marry Me |
Crash And Burn |
Look What God Gave Her |
Life Changes |
Star Of The Show |
Craving You (feat. Maren Morris) |
Vacation |
Country Again |
Slow Down Summer |
What’s Your Country Song |
Center Point Road |
Sixteen |
Do You Love Me |
Beyond the hits, Thomas Rhett also consistently sings songs off his latest projects. So fans can expect multiple tracks from albums like Where We Started and Country Again: Side A to be mixed in.
Along with the sing-along hits and new material, Thomas Rhett is likely to sprinkle in a few carefully chosen covers. His soulful reinterpretations of songs like “Stand By Me,” “Purple Rain,” and “River Bank” showcase his versatility and chops as a vocalist.
Of course, Thomas Rhett is also likely to bring out one or more surprise special guests during his headlining sets. Previous tours have seen him welcome artists like Jon Pardi, Russell Dickerson, and Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard to join him on stage. Who he’ll invite out on the Bring the Bar to You tour remains to be seen!
How Parker McCollum and Conner Smith Enhance the Tour
While Thomas Rhett undoubtedly provides more than enough star power on his own, Parker McCollum and Conner Smith make strong openers. Here’s how they complement Thomas Rhett and enhance the overall Bring the Bar to You tour experience:
- Appeal to multiple fanbases – McCollum and Smith each bring their own growing fanbases to the table. This helps sell more tickets and allows the three acts to cross-promote to their respective followings.
- Showcase rising stars – It’s exciting for fans when a headliner like Thomas Rhett uses their platform to highlight up-and-comers like McCollum and Smith.
- Diversity of sounds – While all country artists, the three have distinct individual styles. This musical variety makes for an entertaining evening.
- High energy sets – Like Thomas Rhett, McCollum and Smith deliver lively, crowd-pleasing performances that will get audiences revved up.
- Strong complement as openers – McCollum and Smith’s music naturally pairs well with Thomas Rhett’s anthemic catalog, making for smooth transitions.
The combination of the headliner’s proven hits with the openers’ vibrancy and potential gives this tour package widespread appeal. It offers a little something for all types of country fans. Thomas Rhett chose two great acts in Parker McCollum and Conner Smith to kick off the shows and set the stage for his headlining sets each night.
How Fans Can Prepare for the Concerts
For country music lovers planning to attend the Bring the Bar to You tour this summer, how can they best prepare? Here are some tips for Thomas Rhett fans getting ready for the shows:
- Listen to the artists’ catalogs – Be sure to immerse yourself in Thomas Rhett’s, Parker McCollum’s and Conner Smith’s full discographies beyond just the hits.
- Check for pre-sale options – Don’t wait for the general public on-sale date. Take advantage of pre-sales through Thomas Rhett’s fan club or by pre-ordering his album.
- Join fan communities – Connect with other fans online through groups and forums to share tips and excitement.
- Decide on seating – Pick your perfect spot — go for lower bowl seats for proximity or get the full scope from upper decks.
- Book travel/hotels early – If traveling to a show, make arrangements quickly before prices rise.
- Follow safety policies – Review the venue’s rules on bags, entry requirements, etc. to have a smooth experience.
- Scope out parking/transit – Have a transportation plan in place for getting to the show easily.
- Pack essentials – Bring must-haves like earplugs, chargers, comfortable shoes, rain gear (if outdoors), etc.
- Learn fan chants – Brush up on audience participation moments like “Thomas Rhett, Thomas Rhett!”
With the right prep, Thomas Rhett’s Bring the Bar to You tour is sure to be a can’t-miss summer highlight for country fans. It will be a party from start to finish, especially with excellent openers like Parker McCollum and Conner Smith setting the mood. Investing some time in planning ahead of time will help you make the most of Thomas Rhett’s return to the road.
Set Times Fans Can Anticipate
While the exact set times are still to be determined, based on typical tour schedules fans can expect the Bring the Bar to You shows to follow this general timeline:
- 6:00pm – Doors Open
- 7:00pm – Conner Smith set begins
- 7:30pm – Conner Smith set finishes
- 8:00pm – Parker McCollum set begins
- 8:45pm – Parker McCollum set finishes
- 9:15pm – Thomas Rhett begins
- 11:00pm – Thomas Rhett set ends
Of course, these are just estimations, with the real schedule varying slightly by city. Thomas Rhett’s team will release specific on-sale and set time information as each tour stop gets closer. Fans should be prepared to arrive early to catch all three acts and account for getting through security.
It’s smart to keep checking Thomas Rhett’s social media and the tour website for updates as the kickoff gets closer. Set times are sometimes refined right up until show dates. But fans can generally bank on Thomas Rhett hitting the stage around 9pm for a high-energy headlining set lasting at least 1 hour and 45 minutes with an intermission. Arrive ready to enjoy full sets from his talented openers too!
How Fans Can Learn Song Lyrics
Singing along is half the fun at a live country music show! Here are some ways Thomas Rhett fans can make sure they know the lyrics to maximize their enjoyment:
- Stream songs regularly on your favorite music apps like Spotify or Apple Music to familiarize yourself with the tracks
- Listen to albums and playlists in the car or while doing chores to memorize lyrics through repetition
- Pull up lyrics online through sites like Genius or AZLyrics to read as you listen
- Watch Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum and Conner Smith music videos to learn visual associations for lyrics
- Follow song lyrics accounts on Instagram that post short snippers you can screenshot for reference
- Sing loud and proud during the concert and don’t worry if you miss a few words!
Don’t stress about catching every single lyric – just soak in the experience! The most popular choruses will quickly become crowd singalongs. Focus on learning those hooky parts so you can chime in during the hits. With some preparation beforehand, Thomas Rhett fans can become part of the show and fully immerse themselves in the music.
How Early to Arrive
To make sure you catch all the tunes from Conner Smith, Parker McCollum and Thomas Rhett himself, fans will want to arrive early. Here are some tips on timing:
- If you want to be in the front/get the best parking or transit options, plan to show up 2-3 hours before the scheduled start
- To comfortably catch Conner Smith’s set, aim to be at the venue 90 minutes ahead
- If you just want to see Thomas Rhett’s portion, you can arrive 30-45 minutes before he takes the stage
- Add extra time for larger venues where lines and security screening may take longer
- Check venue websites ahead of time for specific policies on when parking lots open, doors open, etc.
Build some buffer into your timing, especially on the first few dates, while the tour is working out logistics. Patience and preparation will be rewarded. Arriving early allows you to get oriented, shop merch, grab drinks and find your seats before the music starts. Make a whole night of it by coming early and staying late to fully experience everything the Bring the Bar to You tour has to offer.
Conclusion
Thomas Rhett’s Bring the Bar to You tour is gearing up to be one of the hottest country music events of 2023. The arena tour will feature Thomas Rhett at the peak of his powers performing hits from his catalog of number one singles and beloved albums. He’s tapped rising stars Parker McCollum and Conner Smith to open the shows with high-energy sets priming audiences for a memorable night.
Country fans can prepare for singalong fun by listening to the three acts, buying tickets early, and learning the lyrics ahead of time. Arrive ready to enjoy the full concert experience! Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum and Conner Smith are ready to help fans bring the bar to each city and kick off summer in style. This is one country concert party you won’t want to miss.