Childers returns to play Knoxville
Thompson-Bowling Arena event part of ‘Mule Pull ’24’ world tour
After four years, bluegrass artist Tyler Childers is returning to Knoxville to play Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. Here’s what to expect.
Tyler Childers 2024 tour details
Childers’ stop in Knoxville on April 16 occurs as part of his “Mule Pull ’24” world tour, promoting Childers’ 2023 album “Rustin’ in the Rain.” This will be Childers’ 20th show in the tour.
Childers’ first round of tour tickets sold out quickly, according to American Songwriter, and due to the high demand, Childers released 24 additional dates in October to provide fans more opportunities to attend. However, Ticketmaster shows some tickets for the Knoxville show are still available.
According to Ticketmaster, $1 of each ticket sold for Tuesday’s event will be donated to The Hickman Holler Appalachian Relief Fund, established in 2020 by Childers and his wife, Senora May. The fund aims to “bring awareness and financial support for philanthropic efforts in the Appalachian Region,” with donations going toward “ongoing efforts in education, civil rights and addiction recovery,” according to its website.
How long is a Childers concert? What to expect
Childers will be playing alongside his band the Food Stamps Tuesday night.
In 2019, Childers performed in Knoxville for the Rhythm N’ Blooms festival, and in 2020, with Sturgill Simpson as part of their collaborative “A Good Look’n Tour,” according to Rolling Stone.
This is Childers’ first time playing in Knoxville since he’s stopped playing fan-favorite song “Feathered Indians.” He last played the song in March 2020, just a few days after performing in Knoxville, according to the website setlist.fm.
Based on recent setlists, it’s likely Tuesday’s show will feature songs from “Rustin’ in the Rain,” in addition to other historically popular songs like “All Your’n” and “Lady May.” The average length of a Childers concert is about two hours.
Who’s opening for Childers?
Alt-country band 49 Winchester will kick off Childers’ show at Food City Center. According to Childers’ tour announcement on Facebook, the group is scheduled to join the tour April 15 in Birmingham, Ala.
While they won’t be accompanying Childers at Thompson-Boling, Knoxville’s own Adeem the Artist is slated to open several of Childers’ shows during the tour this summer.
Where to park for Childers at Thompson-Boling arena?
Parking areas located near Thompson-Boling will be available for attendees to use. Nearby staff and commuter lots will convert to concert parking at 4 p.m. Tuesday.
Event parking will cost $20, and cash is no longer accepted, so be sure to take a card if you plan to utilize a paid lot.
Additional parking information is available on the UT website.
What can I bring with me?
Thompson-Boling Arena has a clear bag policy that allows guests to bring clear, plastic bags no bigger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. Small bags and wallets no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches will be allowed.
A full list of arena policies, including prohibited items, can be found on its website.
Hayden Dunbar is the storyteller reporter. Email hayden.dunbar@knoxnews.com.