As fans are returning to their hometowns, we look back on the spectacular weekend we had in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island.
Tens of thousands of fans flocked in to experience the annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival which showcases the best in country music.
Having already spoken about Thursday’s opening night with Trace Adkins, it’s very important that I tell you what happened during the rest of the weekend. If you thought Trace was all the festival would have to offer, think again.
Friday saw appearances by legendary artists such as Ricky Skaggs and Johnny Reid, who took the crowd through their many hits.
Skaggs hit the stage around 7:30, performing several number one hits, plus some new gospel material. Skaggs is perhaps most well known for his hit “Honey (Won’t you open that door). As this song was sung, the entire crowd was erupting in applause and sing along.
Following Skagg’s appearance, Johnny Reid took the stage around 9:15.
Part way through his set, he brought a little girl who looked no more than age 4 up on stage and put a guitar in her hand as he sung a soft song. Once the song was over, he took the guitar from her, signed it, and sent her back to her waiting and excited parents with the guitar in hand.
I honestly have to say that is one of the nicest things I have ever seen from an artist at a concert. I’m sure that little girl will remember that for the rest of her life.
As Saturday approached, clouds rolled in, and fans were rushing wherever they could to find ponchos for what would be the biggest night, featuring Brad Paisley.
As rain continued to pour, fans were treated to the sounds of Corb Lund, Tanya Tucker, George Canyon and Rik Reese and Neon Highway to name a few.
At around 9:15, Paisley hit the stage to tens of thousands of screaming fans performing hits such as “Mud on The Tires”, “Welcome to the Future”, “Old Alabama”, “American Saturday Night and “Camouflage”.
After this amazing night, fans definitely found a lot of mud on their tires- and shoes too!
Rain or shine- it doesn’t matter, East Coast music fans are always the top breed!
What’s a music festival without a fourth night? On Sunday, fans retreated one final time to the world class Avonlea Concert Site for what would be one final bash.
As fans awaited headliner Toby Keith, the music of Chad Brownlee, Aaron Lewis, and Eric Church could be heard echoing through the entire field.
Chad Brownlee was one of those acts that really stuck out as a new artist with amazing talent.
Following the performance and a long lineup, I had the chance to speak with him and praise him for the show he put on- with a little autograph action, of course.
Again, by 9:15, headliner Toby Keith took to the stage performing hits such as “Whiskey Girl”, “I Wanna Talk about Me”. “Made in America”, “Get Out of My Car” and “How Do You Like Me Now”.
With CBMF once again behind us, it’s important to again note that this may be one of the best organized festivals in Atlantic Canada. The venue is awesome, the music is awesome and the crowd is awesome, not to mention the country girls!
The big question on many music lovers minds is, what’s next? Will the 2012 edition be all country? Could their be a rock element? Stay tuned. If there’s a rumour, you’ll hear it here first.
See you next year PEI! To everyone I had the pleasure of meeting up with, your all the best! See you at the next show!