The Music Beat: Kane Brown Kicks Off Tour at John Paul Jones Arena

March 29, 2024 • By Alice Berry, aberry@virginia.edu Alice Berry, aberry@virginia.edu

March 29, 2024
Kane Brown on stage at John Paul Jones Arena

Country music singer Kane Brown got his start on social media. Now he’s making country music history.

Kane Brown set the stage on fire – literally – at the University of Virginia’s John Paul Jones Arena on Thursday night.

The pyrotechnics-filled show dazzled a crowd of thousands at JPJ, where the award-winning country musician kicked off his “In the Air” tour.

Brown, who made history last year when he became the first Black artist to sell out a headlining show at Boston’s Fenway Park, was joined by CMT Award-nominated band Parmalee and “5 Foot 9” singer Tyler Hubbard.

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Brown was the first musician to have simultaneous No. 1 hits on all five country music charts. But his fanbase doesn’t end with country music enthusiasts; Brown has collaborated with performers like Camila Cabello, Swae Lee and Marshmello, giving him cross-genre appeal. Another frequent collaborator, Brown’s wife Katelyn Brown, got up on stage with him for their song “Thank God.”

Missed the show, or already feeling nostalgic? Take a look at some photos from the concert.

Kane Brown appears with smoke around him on stage
The crowd at JPJ on Thursday screamed as Brown descended from the rafters.
Kane Brown alone on stage
"This place is completely different," Brown said during the concert.
Fans extend their hands out in excitement
The set list included some of Brown’s biggest hits, like “Used to Love You Sober” and “Good as You,” as well as a Ray Charles cover.
Kane walking on the stage with crowd in the foreground
Brown’s wife Katelyn, pregnant with their third child, joined him for a duet on their song, “Thank God.”
Smokey exit
Brown left the main stage at JPJ to sing “Whiskey Sour” on a platform closer to the upper deck of the arena.
Matt Thomas on stage
Parmalee singer Matt Thomas and his band have notched multiple platinum records.
Tyler Hubbard on stage
Tyler Hubbard, of the country music duo Florida-Georgia Line, performed music from his upcoming solo album, “Strong.”

Media Contact

Alice Berry

University News Associate Office of University Communications

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December 20, 2024

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