By Mark Smiley
The Zac Brown Band brought its signature blend of country, rock, and Southern soul to Red Rocks Amphitheatre on M
onday night, October 19, delivering an outstanding performance filled with familiar hits, classic rock covers, and impressive musicianship.
With the spectacular red sandstone formations providing the backdrop, the Grammy Award-winning group demonstrated why it remains one of the most entertaining live acts in music.
Opening the evening was powerhouse vocalist Grace Potter, whose blues-infused rock sound and commanding stage presence provided a fitting introduction to the headliners. Potter returned later in the evening to join the Zac Brown Band for an electrifying rendition of the Rolling Stones classic “Paint It Black,” one of the night’s highlights.
The band delighted longtime fans with hits including “Chicken Fried,” “Toes,” and “Knee Deep.” The latter featured video footage of the late Jimmy Buffett on the venue’s large screens, providing a fitting tribute to the legendary singer whose laid-back musical style shared so much in common with the band’s own.
Another standout moment came with the band’s remarkable combination of its hit “Free” and Van Morrison’s classic “Into the Mystic.” The seamless blending of the two songs was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the group’s extraordinary musical versatility and ability to reinvent familiar material.
### An Encore to Remember
The evening concluded with an entertaining encore that gave individual band members an opportunity to step into the spotlight, each singing portions of classic rock favorites.
Among the selections were John Mellencamp’s “Pink Houses,” Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird,” and the Eagles’ “Heartache Tonight.” The rotating vocal performances demonstrated that the Zac Brown Band is far more than a talented frontman surrounded by backing musicians. Each member contributed a unique style and personality, turning the encore into a celebration of classic
American rock.
Frontman Zac Brown led the ensemble with his trademark easygoing confidence, while the band’s tight harmonies, instrumental versatility, and enthusiasm kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
Few venues complement the Zac Brown Band’s sound as naturally as Red Rocks. The combination of acoustic instrumentation, soaring harmonies, Southern rock influences, and the venue’s breathtaking surroundings made for a memorable concert experience.
Monday night’s performance was a reminder that great live music doesn’t fit neatly into musical categories. The Zac Brown B
and may be considered a country act, but its Red Rocks performance was every bit as much a rock concert.
From the collaboration with Grace Potter to the Jimmy Buffett tribute, the brilliant “Free”/”Into the Mystic” mashup, and the crowd-pleasing encore, the band delivered an unforgettable evening at one of America’s most iconic concert venues.
