Dierks Bentley has officially kicked off his much-anticipated Broken Branches Tour, launching the 30-city journey on May 29 at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. This tour not only marks a significant milestone in Bentley’s career but also brings excitement to country music fans across the country, promising a blend of new music, lively performances, and unexpected surprises.
The Broken Branches Tour serves as a support mechanism for Bentley’s upcoming album, BROKEN BRANCHES, which is set to release on June 13. Fans can look forward to hearing a mix of iconic tracks from Bentley’s two-decade career alongside fresh material that showcases his evolving artistry. His setlist kicked off with the catchy tune "Well Well Whiskey," followed by a nostalgic journey through hits like "Drunk on a Plane," "5-1-5-0," and "Somewhere on a Beach." Touching emotional staples such as "I Hold On" and "Riser" also graced the playlist, resonating deeply with fans what they’re familiar with.
One of the highlights of the opening night was the debut of new tracks, particularly "She Hates Me," offering a sneak peek into what fans can expect from the forthcoming album. This album, rich in collaborations, features contributions from notable artists like John Anderson, Miranda Lambert, and Riley Green, creating a buzz of anticipation among listeners eager for fresh content from Bentley.
Concert-goers were pleasantly surprised by dynamic mashups during the concert, including a lively blend of "Free and Easy" with Alabama’s "Mountain Music," and "Am I the Only One" fused with Garth Brooks’ iconic "Callin’ Baton Rouge." This creativity kept the energy high and the audience fully engaged throughout the performance. Another special moment came when Bentley welcomed GRAMMY-winning artists Jon Randall and Jessi Alexander to the stage for a duet of "Bad Angel." The encore featured a fun surprise with Bentley’s nostalgic ‘90s-themed parody band, Hot Country Knights, providing an extra layer of entertainment to the night.
Opening for Bentley was Zach Top, who captivated the audience with a performance that paid tribute to traditional country music. He performed beloved covers such as Merle Haggard’s "Ramblin’ Fever" and George Strait’s classic "Amarillo by Morning," blending them with his originals like "Beer for Breakfast" and "Cold Beer & Country Music." Top’s enthusiasm resonated with the crowd, and he later joined Bentley and The Band Loula for a rendition of Del McCoury Band’s "Get Down On Your Knees," solidifying his presence as an artist to watch.
The emotional connection that Bentley has with his music and his audience was palpable as he reflected on the significance of the Broken Branches Tour. Bentley shared, “I’m 20(ish) years into doing this, and I’ve seriously never been more excited about a tour.” His partnership with Zach Top, who Bentley described as sharing a love for the same kind of country music and possessing "bluegrass chops," speaks volumes about the camaraderie and creative synergy underpinning this tour.
Aside from providing entertainment, the Broken Branches Tour extends its impact through the launch of the Broken Branches Fund, in collaboration with Music Health Alliance. This initiative is dedicated to supporting mental health resources for music industry professionals, acknowledging the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals in the industry. Bentley’s commitment to fostering well-being among his peers adds depth to the tour’s mission.
In efforts to keep fans updated, Bentley has embraced social media to share snippets from the tour, including behind-the-scenes moments, setlist reveals, and personal anecdotes that resonate with the core of country music culture. This engagement allows fans to feel part of the experience, further solidifying their bond with an artist who genuinely cares about his audience and the community around him.
As the Broken Branches Tour unfolds over the months, fans are guaranteed a memorable journey filled with heartfelt performances, camaraderie among artists, and a communal celebration of country music’s rich legacy. Each show will not only pay homage to Bentley’s established repertoire but will also highlight the growth and evolution of his music, making it an event that is both a retrospective and a forward-looking experience.
Looking ahead, concertgoers can expect an electrifying atmosphere at each venue, as Bentley’s passion for his music will undoubtedly resonate from the stage, inviting everyone to join in the festivities. The Broken Branches Tour is not just a promotional event; it’s a heartfelt celebration of life, music, and community, ensuring fans leave with cherished memories and a sense of connection.
In summary, Dierks Bentley’s Broken Branches Tour is shaping up to be an extraordinary experience for country music fans. With its blend of nostalgic hits, fresh tracks, and creative collaborations, the tour promises a journey that celebrates not just the music, but the unity it brings to fans and artists alike. For those attending, it’s an invitation to be part of something meaningful—a communal gathering of love for country music, friendship, and genuine passion that continues to thrive in every note.
