February 12^th Flint, Michigan – Tonight’s show makes concert review number three for me so far this year and as I was hoping would be the case, it did not disappoint. I’ve been hearing about Tyler Booth for several months now and I was really excited to see what all the hype was about. My buddy stopped by the house to pick me up, a highly appreciated gesture because I almost always end up driving to places, and we hit the road for the hour long drive up to The Machine Shop to catch the show. I had been talking to Tyler’s tour manager throughout the day and the plan was to get there a few hours before doors opened so that I had some time to hang out, get to know everyone, record an interview with Tyler and then head into the venue. We ended up having such a great time. Chatting with and really getting to know Tyler and the band members, knocked out a great interview and even had time to head next door to grab something to eat at Big John Steak and Onion, something that many out of town bands and concert attendees look forward to. I want to throw out a huge thanks to Jay Booth, Tyler’s father and tour manager, for buying us all dinner. It wasn’t at all necessary or expected but it was much appreciated. I got the next one.

First up tonight was The Family Tradition Band. These guys have been making a big name for themselves the last few years but especially this last 10-12 months. This was my first time seeing them and I was excited to check out their brand of country and watch them do their thing. Unfortunately, the drummer Ken, someone I’ve known for many years, had other plans that evening and wasn’t part of the show that night. They did however have someone with a beat box fill in so that at least helped keep the sound full. Great set from Kyle, Randy and the boys as they cranked out a few originals, some popular cover songs and a medley of classic country songs that was definitely a crowd favorite. I’m still looking forward to seeing the whole band live one day but this was at least a good taste of what these guys do and what they are all about.

It was just before 10 o’clock and it was time for Tyler Booth to take the stage. I was already excited about seeing what this guy can do but after getting to spend some time with him that evening before the show I was even more excited to see him live. Tyler and the guys did not disappoint. Every member of his band was extremely talented and they had a blast playing on stage together. I love when a band has that kind of chemistry and it makes it obvious how much they enjoy playing with him and how much they believe in this kid. So many great songs, originals and a few covers, and it was cool to see so many people enjoying the show and getting into what the band was doing. When you hear Tyler’s voice it’s hard to believe that’s the way this young dude sings. You can even hear it when he speaks, such a deep and soothing voice for someone so young. The night went on and those in attendance just couldn’t get enough. They loved what this kid was doing and the entertaining show the band was putting on. This was Tyler’s first time playing in the state of Michigan and to have just under 400 people come out to the show is something he should be very proud of. Top that off with his first Michigan show being at the legendary Machine Shop concert venue and it just doesn’t get much better. Highlights for me included the live performances of ’87 Octane’, ‘Hank Crankin’ People’, “Already Got One’ and ‘Palomino Princess’. All songs that I was looking forward to hearing and songs that the audience just ate up and couldn’t get enough of. At the end of the show more than half of those in attendance waited for a chance to meet Tyler and tell him how much they enjoyed the concert and praise him and the band for a great performance and an incredible night of live country music. That’s the kind of thing that everyone wants to happen to them when you’re a musician and/or singer trying to do what you love for a living

Words can’t really describe just how much I enjoyed the show, enjoyed getting to meet and hang out with Tyler, the band and crew and that whole night in general. It’s crazy to say how proud I was of this kid that I had just met a few hours before the show but I was. Tyler Booth is humble, polite, talented and it’s obvious that he comes from a great family and had a good upbringing. It’s not often that I say this, but I really think some amazing things are going to happen for Tyler in the years to come. He’s too talented, too driven and has way too much support from his family and band for it not to. Keep your eyes and ears open. Tyler Booth has something to say and if you’re fan of good, traditional styled country music you’re going to want to listen. I can pretty much guarantee it.

 – Howie