Deep-rooted country
Golden memories rekindled as country stars stomp onto the stage in Roots and Boots concert
It’s often been said that good things come in threes and Saturday evening at the Credit Union Place was no exception as three country legends, sticking to their roots with true grit, performed together on stage.
The East Coast Production Group show, Roots and Boots, raised fans’ spirits as Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye entertained in tandem and respectfully stepping back during the others’ solos.
Harold Green and his wife, Darlene, nabbed front row seats for unimpeded views of the country singers, who performed a string of hits from the 1990s, ranging from rowdy to romantic.
“We purchased our tickets right away when we heard that our two favourite country singers, Sammy Kershaw and Aaron Tippin, were coming to Summerside,” said Darlene, who is from Wood Islands.
“Country music is a big part of our life. I sing, play and listen to it,” added Harold.
“My age would tell a story because I was born in the ’50s, and our radio was always tuned to the Saturday Night Hoedown, so I have many memories connected to these songs.”
Each artist proved his true talent as he strummed acoustic versions of the songs that gave him his top successes, before joining together in perfect harmony.
“Our favourite song by Kershaw is ‘Yard Sale.’ It’s a sombre song about divorce, but we like the lyrics. In the song, this guy is having a home yard sale and he has a golden memory attached to each item as it’s taken away,” Harold said.
Also among the fans in the audience were John MacDonald and his friend Randy Campbell. “Collin Raye is my favourite,” said MacDonald, from Charlottetown.
“His song, ‘Little Rock’, stands out because when we were growing up it resonated. The song is about a guy struggling and he’s trying to get better, and I guess everyone’s trying to improve.”
“It’s the struggle of the underdog,” added Campbell.
“There will be memories that will come alive with their songs throughout the night, and we will be foot-stomping along. And we don’t expect our hats will even make it back home tonight, so there you go,” said MacDonald, as his face lit up.
Concert doors opened at 7 p.m. and the show kicked off under dimmed lights at 8 p.m.