Canaan Smith - Lawton OK

Taste of Country has a Christmas tour that highlights current up and comers in country music. On November 21st that Taste of Country Christmas event brought Canaan Smith's first headlining tour Stompin' Grounds to Lawton, OK. 

Lawton OK #StompinGrounds

Smith's single "Love You Like That" hit number one and his debut album Bronco is loaded with incredibly heartfelt songs.  This includes the title track which is a touching tribute to his brother. Smith, in fact, contributed to the songwriting of 10 of the 13 tracks on the extended album. So some spotlight is well deserved for this talented artist. Before the Lawton show my concert buddy and I had only had the pleasure of seeing Canaan Smith in acoustic shows with his guitarist Stephen Whitfield.

Stephen in Lawton

I love acoustic shows and both gentleman were obviously extremely talented. However, I was very excited to see a full band show. During the VIP part, we were treated to a three song performance with just Smith and you could feel the excitement emanating off of him. After he finished playing, he took photos and signed autographs for us. He was extremely down to earth and very genuine.

My concert buddy and I, as well as our new friends from the VIP performance, were front row for the whole show. We were not only treated to the ENTIRE extended addition of Bronco, but a stunning duet. Opening act Russell Dickerson and Canaan Smith performed "Every Breath You Take" after the always moving performance of "Bronco". I have several songs I love off the album, but not much compares to hearing Canaan Smith perform "American Muscle" live. I loved seeing him bring an American flag on the stage and wave it amidst a
"U-S-A" chant. 

 The chemistry with his band was something to behold as well. One of my favorite things about live shows is watching the band perform along side the artist they're sharing a stage with. After hearing what just one of Canaan Smith's band mates (Stephen) could do with an acoustic guitar, I was very excited to hear the whole band. They were out of this world and Stephen officially became my favorite guitarist. Canaan Smith is an extremely talented vocalist and songwriter. He not only commanded the stage the entire night, but made the fans feel like they were a part of the show too. I highly recommend catching a show of his if the opportunity presents itself. He's currently taking everyone by storm with his Stompin' Grounds tour and then will be joining Brantley Gilbert's Blackout tour with opener Michael Ray.