Kelsea Ballerini has started her first arena tour , named Kelsea Ballerini Live with all new stops and unique performances. Fans have eagerly anticipated the tour to see what new changes and aspects she will introduce throughout her first headline arena performances.
Tour Kickoff and Album Support
The “Kelsea Ballerini Live on Tour” began on Jan. 21 2025 at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan which is in support of her recently released album "Patterns". The album earned widespread acclaim and also topped Billboard's Country Albums Chart. As part of this release her show at Madison Square Garden sold out in minutes which also shows the popularity that was quickly created with the success of this release.
New Opportunities and Appearances
In addition to the tour Kelsea will be featured as a coach on the NBC show “The Voice.” Her appearance there is highly anticipated by all who look forward to the popular singing competition. This gives a different platform to further elevate her brand to an expanded audience that was not reached by music alone.
Grammy Nomination
The song “Cowboys Cry Too" which features Noah Kahan was on the set list for her opening night. It was recently nominated for a Grammy as Best Country Duo/Group performance and continues to show her success by showing off unique collabs throughout her career.
Opening Night Setlist
The first show was very high energy and the list of songs are as follows:
- “Club”
- "Heartfirst”
- “If You Go Down (I’m Going Down Too)"
- “Doin’ My Best"
- “Miss Me More”
- “Penthouse”
- “Blindsided”
- “Homecoming”
- “Muscle Memory"
- “I Quit Drinking”
- "The Little Things”
- “Peter Pan"
- “Mountain With a View”
- "Legends"
- “Half of My Hometown”
- “Cowboys Cry Too”
- “Yeah Boy"
- “Love Is A Cowboy"
- "If You Go Down (I'm Goin' Down Too)"
- “This Feeling"
Opening Act: MaRynn Taylor
MaRynn Taylor is a rising country music star. As the opening act for the tour her perspective and her hometown journey from growing up in Michigan has been shared. She had strong ties to music before starting this adventure which continues to show in her stage presence.
A Full Circle Moment
MaRynn explained that she was very emotional at her home town performance due to her growing up watching the same tv stations for school closings and she got to give an interview with the same channel which was a full circle moment for the young star. The venue she was at was also a place she saw multiple country artists before beginning her journey into a musician.
Pre-Show Preparation and Inspiration
Her journey involved multiple aspects to her pre show routines which also highlight her talent. These rituals also showcased who has been in her life to impact the direction she has taken.
Stage Presence and Fashion Choices
She also makes sure to show who she is visually while preparing for the show such as choosing fun shoes and clothing. The styling choices create excitement and add sparkle while being also relatable to other female artists who do similar forms of self expression. She is fully dedicated to not just what fans see but also adding her own unique creative touch during the pre show moments.
Before Show Rituals and Spirituality
She does hair, makeup and paints during the pre show while also expressing her creative personality. Along with this MaRynn practices a before show ritual of prayer with her team who put in all their hands in while saying "Rock for the Rock." This process includes thanking God for their health, safety, journey and the community that she has found along the way.
Tour Engagement
Both artist show a genuine care in how they treat fans. MaRynn seeks out people in the crowd to give ticket upgrades for a special experience. They strive to create an authentic experience for the viewers creating real opportunities and giving back to fans who come to support.
Fan Appreciation and Gratitude
She goes on to also greet them with hugs, high fives, friendship bracelets, meet and greets and pictures. Also she mentioned that it felt surreal when people would know her songs lyrics while seeing them sing back to her. The love for a personal relationship with her fan base shows a priority in making people feel valued.
Local Connection
Kelsea Ballerini had last performed in her home town in 2023 during a special one night only concert which became her “big girl show”. That time at the arena gave her more confidence which then gave more for bigger events.
Hometown Influence
She credits Central High School for making her into the artist she has become today and the love from her hometown is what made her the woman who sold out multiple stadiums. Kelsea’s connection with her hometown community is more special to her after all of these accomplishments.
Future Dates
As of January 2025 her home town of Knoxville is not yet on the schedule for stops on this tour but the shows for now span 36 cities and many places in North America are expected. The nearest shows from Knoxville are to be found in Louisville Kentucky and Nashville Tennessee giving many of her local audience chances to view her up close at other locations.
Key Takeaways
- Kelsea Ballerini’s first arena tour began on Jan. 21 2025 at the Van Andel Arena.
- Her opening night playlist included her hit songs which spanned across all albums including her latest "Patterns."
- MaRynn Taylor served as the opener showcasing both her journey, gratitude and artistry on stage for first timers at big arenas.
- Her first arena show as a main act is what she previously prepared for in 2023 in her home town in Knoxville.
- Both women showed both authentic and humble personas as they were thankful for each journey, relationships with their community and were both a visual treat on stage.