Dierks Bentley’s “Broken Branches Tour” Kicks Off Summer with Roots, Hits, and Raw Energy
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The summer concert season has officially burst into full bloom, and multi-Platinum entertainer Dierks Bentley is leading the charge with his highly anticipated 30-city BROKEN BRANCHES TOUR, produced by Live Nation. Kicking off with wall-to-wall crowds in Austin, TX, Dallas, TX, and Tulsa, OK, Bentley delivered an electrifying performance that showcased the breadth and depth of his two-decade-long career, blending beloved hits with exciting new material and heartfelt tributes to country and bluegrass legends.
From the moment Bentley stepped onto the stage, the energy was palpable. Fans were on their feet from start to finish, immersed in a setlist that masterfully wove together his chart-topping anthems like “What Was I Thinkin’,” “I Hold On,” and the crowd-pleasing “Drunk On A Plane.” But the real treat for the faithful came in the form of brand-new tracks from his forthcoming 11th studio album, BROKEN BRANCHES. The album’s lead single, “She Hates Me,” resonated strongly, already climbing the charts, while the fan-favorite “Well Well Whiskey” proved to be an instant sing-along, hinting at the rich storytelling and raw authenticity to come.
Musicianship was front and center throughout the evening, a testament to Bentley’s commitment to his craft and the talent of his touring band. The seamless integration of covers and mashups kept the audience captivated. Openers The Band Loula joined Bentley for a swampy, soulful rendition of Del McCoury Band’s “Get Down On Your Knees,” adding an unexpected layer of bluegrass grit. The creative mashups were a highlight, with “Free and Easy” flowing effortlessly into Alabama’s iconic “Mountain Music,” and “Am I the Only One” blending seamlessly with Garth Brooks’ “Baton Rouge” and Jimmy Martin’s “Freeborn Man.” For the latter, Bentley was joined by Zach Top, who also stuck around for a high-energy performance of “Lot a Leavin’ Left to Do,” showcasing a fantastic synergy between the two artists.
A special moment in Austin on Friday (5/29) saw GRAMMY-winning singer/songwriter/producer Jon Randall and four-time GRAMMY nominated singer-songwriter Jessi Alexandra surprise the audience with a powerful, one-night-only performance of “Bad Angel.” These spontaneous collaborations underscore the genuine camaraderie and deep musical roots that define Bentley’s circle, making each stop on the tour feel unique and special.
The upcoming BROKEN BRANCHES album, set to be released via MCA, features 11 songs that celebrate the outliers of small-town life and the untamed spirit of country music itself. Bentley has distilled his essential sound to its most rooted and resolute form, embracing unruly characters and finding beauty in their unconventional paths. The album promises exciting collaborations with country legends and rising stars, including John Anderson, Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, and Stephen Wilson Jr., further cementing Bentley’s role as a bridge between generations of country music.
After more than 20 years on country’s family tree, Dierks Bentley remains a multi-Platinum superstar, with eight Number One albums, 22 Number One songs, and over 9.5 billion global streams to his name. His 15 Grammy nominations and membership in the historic Grand Ole Opry speak volumes about his enduring impact. A global headliner and a true torchbearer for country’s organic roots, Bentley will continue his 30-city BROKEN BRANCHES TOUR with Zach Top and The Band Loula through August, stopping at amphitheaters across the country and iconic venues including New York City’s Madison Square Garden.
Beyond the music, Bentley’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his ventures, including four locations of the gastropub and live music venue “Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row,” his Flag & Anthem lifestyle collection “Desert Son,” and the recently released ROW 94 – a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey crafted with only “three ingredients and the truth.” On tour this summer, fans will even have the chance to interact with the ROW 94 Truth Booth, an interactive content creation experience inviting them to share “two truths and a rye.”
In essence, the BROKEN BRANCHES TOUR is more than just a concert; it’s a comprehensive experience that celebrates Dierks Bentley’s past, present, and future. It’s a testament to his unwavering connection to his roots, his dedication to authentic storytelling, and his ability to deliver a live show that leaves fans feeling invigorated and deeply connected to the heart of country music. This tour is a must-see for anyone looking to kick off their summer with raw talent, timeless hits, and the genuine spirit of country.
Photo Credit: Zach Belcher