Old Dominion to Perform at John Deere Classic 2024 | Tickets & Details
The John Deere Classic is adding a significant dose of country music to its summer lineup. Old Dominion, the acclaimed band known for hits like “One Man Band” and “Hotel Key,” will perform immediately following the trophy ceremony on , organizers announced this week.
While the John Deere Classic is primarily known as a PGA Tour event, the “Concert on the Course” has become a popular tradition, drawing both golf enthusiasts and music fans to East Moline, Illinois. This year’s selection of Old Dominion signals a continued effort to broaden the event’s appeal and create a more festival-like atmosphere.
Old Dominion’s inclusion isn’t a surprise to those following the band’s trajectory. Formed in Nashville in 2007, the group – comprised of Matthew Ramsey, Brad Tursi, Trevor Rosen, Geoff Sprull, and David Church – has steadily built a reputation for energetic live performances and a blend of traditional country instrumentation with contemporary pop sensibilities. Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut album, Meat and Candy, in 2015, which spawned multiple chart-topping singles.
The band’s success is particularly notable in a country music landscape that has seen significant shifts in recent years. While “bro-country” dominated the airwaves for a period, Old Dominion has carved out a niche with songs that often explore themes of love, loss, and everyday life with a relatable honesty. They’ve managed to appeal to both established country fans and a younger demographic, a feat that has solidified their position as one of the genre’s leading acts.
Beyond their musical achievements, Old Dominion has also garnered attention for their work ethic and commitment to their fans. They consistently tour extensively, playing both headlining shows and opening for larger acts. This dedication to live performance is likely to translate well to the John Deere Classic, where they’ll be performing in an outdoor setting for a large crowd.
The timing of the concert, immediately following the golf tournament’s trophy ceremony, is strategic. It allows attendees to celebrate the culmination of the sporting event with a high-energy musical performance. This format has proven successful for other similar events, creating a seamless transition from athletic competition to entertainment.
Tickets for the Concert on the Course will go on sale , according to organizers. The announcement comes at a busy time for the band, who are currently promoting their latest album, Time, Tequila & Therapy, released in 2023. The album showcases a more introspective side of the band, exploring themes of personal growth and resilience. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, demonstrating their continued popularity and critical acclaim.
The John Deere Classic’s decision to book Old Dominion reflects a broader trend in event planning: the convergence of sports and entertainment. Increasingly, major sporting events are incorporating concerts and other forms of entertainment to attract a wider audience and enhance the overall fan experience. This strategy is particularly effective in attracting younger demographics who may not be solely interested in the sporting aspect of the event.
The Quad Cities region, where the John Deere Classic is held, has a strong tradition of supporting both golf and country music. The event’s organizers are hoping that Old Dominion’s performance will draw fans from across the Midwest, boosting tourism and economic activity in the area. The concert is expected to generate significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.
Looking ahead, the John Deere Classic’s success with Old Dominion could pave the way for similar collaborations in future years. The event’s organizers are likely to explore other opportunities to partner with popular musical acts, further solidifying its position as a premier sporting and entertainment destination. The challenge will be to find artists who appeal to a broad audience and complement the event’s overall brand.
Old Dominion’s performance at the John Deere Classic is more than just a concert; it’s a strategic move by event organizers to enhance the fan experience and broaden the event’s appeal. It’s a testament to the band’s growing popularity and their ability to connect with audiences across a variety of platforms. As the concert date approaches, anticipation is building among both golf and music fans in the Quad Cities region and beyond.
The band’s continued success also speaks to the evolving nature of the country music industry. Artists like Old Dominion, who are willing to experiment with different sounds and push creative boundaries, are finding success in a market that is increasingly open to innovation. Their ability to blend traditional country elements with contemporary influences has resonated with a wide audience, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in the genre.
