Country music has taken a bit of a backseat in Wolf Trap's summer lineup during the past couple of seasons. No real rhyme or reason for it; mostly because a lot of the musicians that cater to our size venue (7k seats) weren't actively touring. The Filene Center has welcomed its fair share of country musicians throughout the years. Travis Tritt, Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson, Toby Keith are just a few huge names that have passed through, and likely will again at some point during their careers. Country music has seen a massive resurgence in the past few years. Heck Taylor Swift is almost on the level of being the current face of American music. We've also heard and responded to our fans who, after noticing the hiatus, have politely inquired about the possibility of slotting more country into our summer schedule. So, with 74 shows booked thus far for summer 2012, country music is back on the docket.
Martina McBride w/ Special Guest: David Nail - June 13, 2012 @ 8pm
It must be a prerequisite for a country star to be gorgeous. Aside from the fact that she's a total knockout, Martina McBride is a born entertainer. If you've ever seen videos of her performing in front of her usual crowd of thousands or tens of thousands, she possesses the innate ability to whip people into a total frenzy. And when she's not dashing back and forth on-stage hollering "COME ON!" or leading a massive clap-along to hits like "Independence Day," she's got you in the palm of her hand with heartfelt ballads that showcase her bond to the common American woman. No chance this show doesn't sell out, so become a member now for advance ticket access or set your smart phone calendars to wake you up with a Martina McBride song on the morning of the March 24th on-sale.
Mary Chapin Carpenter with Special Guest: Loudon Wainwright III - August 18 at 8pm
Mary Chapin Carpenter is the perfect cocktail of part country, part folk-rock, and part pop. This blend of sound keeps her songs eternally interesting and engaging for an audience that likes country, but appreciates other influences in song-writing. MCC is a local gal who has made somewhat of a home away from home here at Wolf Trap. Her 2011 summer performance was cancelled as a concession to unfortunate weather circumstances, which split the difference on public opinion. We don't like cancelling shows and hardly ever do, but felt it was in the best interest of everyone's safety to have folks remain indoors. This year, I predict 85 degrees, no humidity, and a beautiful bed of stars. Even if not, she'll be back and fired up to satisfy her fans who had to wait an extra year to see her at Wolf Trap.
Alan Jackson - August 19 @ 8pm
Alan Jackson is a superstar among country superstars. He's been one of the stalwarts within what has become a pretty saturated country market over the last two decades. IMHO, his success stems from his unique hybrid sound of honky-tonk, mainstream country, and neo-traditional country. There are not many like him out there. He's sold over 50 million albums (WOW) and racked up 35 No. 1 hits. Like McBride, Jackson is an artist who has built his career largely on the strength of his voice and showmanship qualities, so the pristine sound and intimacy of the Filene Center will make it seem like he's performing in your backyard. This is one of the can't miss shows of the summer.
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