Country music superstar Sara Evans and her band performed at Tioga Downs on Thursday evening, July 2, electrifying the summer concert stage and captivating the audience with her hit songs, and a new mix of Evans’ favorite tunes.
Country music superstar Sara Evans and her band took the outdoor summer concert stage at Tioga Downs on Thursday evening, July 2. Evans performed several of her hit songs “Born to Fly,” “A Little Bit Stronger,” and “Slow Me Down,” among others, to a nearly sold-out crowd. (Photos by JoAnn R. Walter)
Following a lovely sunset cradled by peaceful clouds at Tioga Downs on Thursday, July 2, country music superstar Sara Evans and her band took the outdoor summer concert stage to perform to a nearly sold-out crowd.
The audience cheered as soon as they heard the familiar first few notes of what is considered Evans’ signature song, “Born to Fly.” Evans emerged from behind the stage and instantly engaged the audience with the tune that skyrocketed her to stardom.
Highlights of the concert showcased love-and-relationship hits such as “As If,” “Perfect,” and “I Keep Looking.” After the heart-filled fifth song of the set, “Back Seat of a Greyhound Bus,” Evans took a quick break and spoke to the audience.
Standing in front of a wispy-draped backdrop adorned with her first name, Evans shared, “I’m from Alabama,” then paused to say, “And I love your weather here tonight.” Comfortable temperatures accompanied by a slight cool breeze were welcomed during Evans’ electrifying show.
From her most recent album, “Slow Me Down,” of which Evans received high accolades as one of the “10 Best Country Albums,” she performed the title track to the delight of the audience, among other selections. “Can’t Stop Loving You,” a from-the-heart duet which was originally recorded with Isaac Slade, leader singer of the rock band The Fray, was exceptionally sung by Evans and band member, Billy McClaran.
During a phone interview with Evans in June, she shared that her Tioga Downs show would include not only her hit songs, but also a new mix of some of her favorites. During the show, Evans explained that she chooses songs that move her lyrically and emotionally.
The foot tapping, “Every Little Kiss,” a Bruce Hornsby classic, was performed with a twist that showed off Evans’ country flair.
Country music superstar Sara Evans performed at Tioga Downs on Thursday evening, July 2, part of the 2015 summer concert series. Evans’ distinctive and powerful voice makes her one of the most recognizable female vocalists in country music.
Evans opened up to the audience about her family, and explained, “My husband and I got married seven years ago. He has four children and I have three.” Chuckling, she added, “And together we are absolutely exhausted.” Evans also commented that her three children are traveling with her on the road.
Evans explained that she had taken a break from music at one point, but knew it was time to record again when approached by Lady Antebellum vocalist, Hillary Scott, about a piece she had written. “She asked me if I wanted to record it,” said Evans.
The song, “A Little Bit Stronger,” became a number one hit for Evans, and was well-received by the Tioga Downs fans.
During another break in the show, Evans introduced her talented band – Shane Smith (guitar), Jim Bloodgood (drums), Matt Evans (her brother and bassist), Adam Hampton (piano), Billy McClaran (acoustic guitar/fiddle and harmony vocals) and Brent Wilson (guitar and harmony vocals).
Evans grabbed the attention of the audience when she shared that her daughters will soon be teenagers, and joked, “Maybe even running off with a boy from Nichols, N.Y.”
The crowd cheered as Evans then performed, “Suds in the Bucket,” and it didn’t take long for a group of audience members to gather at the front of the stage. Evans shook the hands of fans as she led into another number one song, “A Real Fine Place to Start.”
“Grab someone you love,” Evans announced, which led into the emotional tune, “I Could Not Ask for More.”
Evans departed the stage just before 9:30 p.m., but quickly returned and finished her concert with an encore of her personal favorites. She then left the stage with a wave and a smile.
Prior to the show, Jeff Gural, CEO of American Racing and Entertainment and owner of Tioga Downs, welcomed the audience and announced that the Request for Application, for the fourth gaming license in New York State, had been sent to Schenectady that same morning.
In recognition of his upcoming birthday on July 6, the audience sang “Happy Birthday” to Gural.
For more information about Tioga Downs, visit their website, tiogadowns.com, or find them on Facebook or Twitter.
