March
10
BY
BILL BROWNLEE
Special
to The Star
Scotty McCreery demonstrated that
he's much more than a personable singer with an enormous voice Saturday at the
Uptown Theater. The winner of the 2011 season of the television competition
American Idol gave a remarkably mature performance that belied his age. The
concert was a benefit for the Medicine Cabinet, a locally-based charity that
provides emergency medical assistance for people who can not otherwise afford
such services. About 1,600 people attended the event
McCreery, 19, was a suitable match
for the upbeat tone of the fundraiser. The wholesome demeanor and lustrous
singing that propelled the North Carolinian to victory on “American Idol” were
readily apparent. Many of the teen-age girls and young women that dominated the
audience screamed in delight each time McCreery's deep rumble of a voice struck
an improbably low note. “You are so cute!” -- the shouted proclamation of one
woman during a momentarily lull between songs -- summarized the gist of the
fans' enthusiasm.
McCreery gracefully acknowledged the
fawning attention as he worked the stage with the expertise of a seasoned
veteran. The charming teen told self-deprecating stories and shared
behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
He suggested that the production of
his popular 2011 album -- he noted that “in 13 weeks y'all helped make that
platinum” -- was rushed. In spite of its success, the project contains an
alarming lack of substance. McCreery satisfied the audience with faithful
renderings of the wispy hits "The Trouble with Girls" and “I Love You
This Big,” yet he seemed determined to prove that he's much more than a twangy
version of Justin Bieber.
Abetted by a sturdy five-piece band,
McCreery sounded substantially more vital Saturday than on his inconsequential
recordings. Surprisingly rough Southern rock shadings served as a complementary
backdrop for McCreery's magnificent voice. In addition to three selections from
his forthcoming album, McCreery filled out his 75-minute set with several cover
songs. Readings of two Garth Brooks hits stood out. "Papa Loved Mama"
was delivered with rowdy enthusiasm. An appropriately deft rendering of “The
Dance was similarly effective. An interpretation of the traditional “Man of
Constant Sorrow” proved that McCreery is capable of singing with palpable soul.
In his introduction to a credible
medley of material associated with Hank Williams, Johnny Cash and Elvis
Presley, McCreery said that he “grew up listening to that old stuff.”
The admission is unusual for a
teenager and is an encouraging signal that McCreery possesses a broad
perspective that should serve him well as he strives to sustain his fledgling
career.
Another apparent former skeptic had to change his tune about the relevancy of Scotty as a bona fide country artist and singer. Like I have said in the past, winning new fans one concert at a time. You did again, Scotty!! So proud of you!!
ReplyDeleteScotty you rock my boy . Im so blown away by this guy everytime he steps on stage pure magic .
ReplyDeleteYes I think he is working like non other and he does deserve this recognition that he is getting everywhere else but on the radio. He is a very humble young man with a heart and a voice that goes beyoud his years and an Artist that is doing what all these other artist are doing and going to school at the same time and is getting new fans everywhere he is performing. Scotty I am so proud of you staying in your own lane and doing what you said all along just going out there and performing what you do best, singing Country songs that you love and entertaining your fans that you can tell you love. You are giving us what we love and what you love at the same time. Well I think myself you have gone way and above working your way up the ladder and I hope Radio and Nashville will see what you are accomplishing everyday and night because honey you are nailing it and this article is a great one to see that. ILYTB Scotty
ReplyDeleteYes I think he is working like non other and he does deserve this recognition that he is getting everywhere else but on the radio. He is a very humble young man with a heart and a voice that goes beyoud his years and an Artist that is doing what all these other artist are doing and going to school at the same time and is getting new fans everywhere he is performing and Scotty I am so proud of you staying in your own lane and doing what you said all along just going out there and performing what you do best, singing Country songs that you love and entertaining your fans that you can tell you love. You are giving us what we love and what you love at the same time. Well I think myself you have gone way and above working your way up the ladder and I hope Radio and Nashville will see what you are accomplishing everyday and night because honey you are nailing it and this article is a great one to see that. ILYTB Scotty
ReplyDeleteOOPS, sorry I thought I messed up but it double this comment, sorry!!!!!
ReplyDeleteTruer sentiments have never been spoken that those from the above fans. We would all like to hear more of Scotty on the radio, and we WILL. His talent and ability is undeniable and it is inevatible that he will receive the recognition that he deserves even by the radio community. I used to think that Garth Brooks was the king of marketing himself, but I now think that Scotty is fast catching up to him, and it won't be long until he takes that throne as well. The time is fast approaching when we will no longer refer to Scoty as "Prince Scotty" and begin referring to him as "King Scotty." And, I am sure that the King himself, Elvis, would be more than proud to pass succession of this title to Scotty.
ReplyDeleteTHIS WAS A GREAT ARTICLE OF SCOTTY. SCOTTY HAS GROWN SO MUCH AS AN ARTIST. I AM SO PROUD OF SCOTTY EACH AND EVERY DAY.
ReplyDeleteYES! Scotty is truly is a great performer, and that is a fact. He always remembers what his LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST HAVE DONE FOR HIM. Like Scotty say I got here because of him. This young man is really blessed. I thank God for Scotty. Now you can get some rest now, that you are on spring break. God Bless you Gabi and you lovely family and the Band and Mr. Todd Cassidaty.
ReplyDeleteGREAT ARTICLE ON OUR SCOTTY!!! I AM SO,SO,PROUD OF YOU. YOU ARE TRULY REMARKABLE ENTERTAINER THAT WE ALL KNOW ALL ALONE. IT'S ALL BECAUSE OF THE LORD. YOU ARE ON SPRING BREAK ENJOY IT AND GET SOME REST. ILYTB FOREVER SCOTTY!!!
ReplyDeleteSo happy for our Scotty. I have been to a Garth Brooks concert many years ago and it was fantastic. But guess what? I went to Scotty's concert in Niagara Falls and it was even better! I would definitely go again! I thought he was fantastic on American Idol but after seeing him in concert he is even better (if that's possible). This young man has a great future ahead of him. He is perfect now with a fantastic stage performance. I don't think it is possible to get better because he is perfect now! His new songs definitely have to be played on radio when they become singles. Rock this night, Gotta see you tonight and Suntan should all be hits. Just wait and Scotty will make us all proud (like we aren't already)!
ReplyDelete