The stage was set for this big country star, and by big, I mean in the country music industry, voice and stature. The place was filled with people waiting to see and hear the baritone singer. It was almost a saunter of a walk onto the stage as he teased the ladies that melted as they saw him for the first time. He flaunted his country apparel, wearing a light blue t-shirt that clung to his fit, lean torso and tight fitting jeans to show off his walk while giving a flirty smile to all the ladies that adore him.
His performance engaged the audience and it was easy to connect with the fatherly side of this artist, especially when he asked four quadruplet girls in the audience (approx 10 years old), to stand before singing “You’re Gonna Miss This.” Trace’s advice to the father of the these four adorably dressed girls, who were wearing matching red dresses, was not to let them wear those dresses in 10 years, followed by a chuckle. The song brought several to a standing ovation.
The tenderness changes to a sexy feel on “Hot Mama.” The mood changed in synch with the lighting on stage. As the lights dimmed to red, it provided a more “adult” feel as he started to move those hips. The motion of his arms, pulling them into him, then hitting those serious low notes that he is known for had everyone’s attention captured.
Not to disappoint the soul of the country fans, he had everyone clapping during “Marry Me for Money.” With lyrics of “She can be really ugly. I’m gonna marry for money,” the laughter in the audience seemed to confirm that Trace was not alone in appreciating the tongue in cheek sentiment on this song. The ladies went up front to touch the singers hand, which he graciously accepted. Some women were standing in front of the stage during songs as he sang to get their picture with the him the background. Elated with smiles going back to their seats, it appeared as if they just went to heaven and came back down to earth.
There were piercing whistles from fans as “Every Light in the House,” was performed. The soothing sound and mellow tune, combined with the ease of Atkins voice, calmed the pace. Apologizing for the abrupt change in tempo, Trace went on to perform “Maintenance Man.” The piano is so prominent on this song, it really gives it that rich full feeling.
The only disappointment to this show was how quickly after the encore of “Take It” was played that everyone was up and ready to jump out of their seats.
Setlist:
Thinkin Thing
Songs
Big Time
Love Song
Chrome
Miss This
Come to Papa
Hot Mama
Marry for the Money
Ladies Love Country Country Boys
It All Adds Up
How Long
Girl in Texas
Every Light
Turned On/House
Maintenance Man
Badonk
Ride
Take It
We would like to thank Tony Astran from the Seneca Niagara Casino for the credentials to review the show.
