Old Dominion Kicks Off “How Good Is That” Tour with Unforgettable Fan Connections
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Despite an unexpected evacuation in Charleston’s Credit One Stadium due to weather, Old Dominion proved that nothing could dampen their spirit or the unwavering dedication of their fans as they kicked off their “How Good Is That – World Tour.” The band, a dominant force in country music with eight Academy of Country Music Group of the Year awards, delivered an “epic” performance that solidified the bond between them and their loyal fanbase, affectionately known as the “Odies.”
Lead singer and guitarist Matthew Ramsey, guitarist and vocalist Brad Tursi, keyboardist and vocalist Trevor Rosen, and the formidable rhythm section of bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers, were primed to deliver a setlist packed with hits and a few exciting surprises. The opening weekend showcased a new level of connection between the band and the Odies.
Beyond the usual vocal signs held high, fans brought multiple bouquets in anticipation of the live debut of “Water My Flowers,” a testament to their deep engagement with the band’s new material. There were even lookalikes of the cover model for their upcoming album, Barbara (due out August 22nd), and countless individuals celebrating personal milestones amidst the vibrant atmosphere. This “be-in-the-moment” energy was palpable and contagious.
Adding to their ongoing philanthropic efforts, Old Dominion has partnered with Save the Music. Fans who donate to the organization are given the incredible opportunity to watch part of the show from the iconic couch that graced the cover of their self-titled 2019 debut. As Ramsey noted, it’s more than just a fun gimmick; it’s truly the best seat in the house.
“We want to have fun and mix it up,” Ramsey shared. “The Odies not only know how to have a good time, they inspire us to come up with new ways to make them smile. Having seen more than a few Barbaras each night, they’re clearly up for the task.” He emphasized the band’s commitment to giving back, explaining, “There’s the moment in the show where we bring a fan up on stage to sit side stage and watch a few songs, that couch is now raising money for Save The Music, an organization that helps fund getting instruments and music teachers into our nation’s schools. To me, it’s win-win-win, because anything that gets young people playing takes all of us back to being kids who were so obsessed with music.”
The setlists during the opening weekend were a testament to Old Dominion’s eclectic range, with fan requests spanning their extensive catalog. From the laid-back vibes of “Hawaii” to the heartfelt “I Should Have Married You,” and the energetic “Stars in the City,” “Hot Again,” “Beer Can In A Truck Bed,” and “New York at Night,” the band delighted attendees with a diverse array of their hits. They also sprinkled in new tracks like “Making Good Time” and “Me Most Nights,” satisfying the Odies’ hunger for fresh material.
Whether it was the extended ovation following “No Such Thing As A Broken Heart” in Charleston or the thrilling Daily’s Place debut of “Water My Flowers” with the fired-up Jacksonville crowd, it was clear that fans were there to fully experience the songs. Old Dominion consistently delivers a sound where positivity meets “scandalously infectious hooks,” seamlessly merging elements of country, rock, and pop. This unique blend has captivated millions of country music lovers over the past decade.
Known for their enduring love of live performances—they were touring in a cargo van long before they landed a record deal—the opening weekend of the “How Good Is That – World Tour” was nothing short of awesome. And there’s much more to come!
“Feels good to get back out there,” Ramsey admitted. “We really missed playing for our people.”
Catch Old Dominion on Tour:
Here’s where you can experience the “How Good Is That – World Tour”:
- July 19: Canandaigua, NY – CMAC =+
- July 24: Terre Haute, IN – The Mill Terre Haute =+
- July 25: Bonner Springs, KS – Azura Amphitheater =+
- July 26: Oklahoma City, OK – The Zoo Amphitheatre =+
- July 30: Bend, OR – Hayden Homes Amphitheater +
- August 1 & 2: Lake Tahoe, NV – Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic =+
- August 7: Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater =+
- August 8: Pocatello, ID – Portneuf Health Trust Amphitheatre =+
- August 9: West Valley City, UT – Maverik Center =+
- August 17: Calgary, AB – Country Thunder
- August 21: St. Paul, MN – Minnesota State Fair
- August 22 & 23: Council Bluffs, IA – Harrah’s Stir Concert Cove
- August 29: Windsor, ON – The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor +
- August 30: Toronto, ON – Theatre at Great Canadian Resort Casino +
- September 4: Allentown, PA – PPL Center =+
- September 5: Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena =+
- September 6: Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena =+
- September 11: Austin, TX – Moody Center*^
- September 12 & 13: Durant, OK – Choctaw Casino*
- September 18: Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena =+
- September 19: Bakersfield, CA – Dignity Health Arena =+
- September 20: Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center at Fresno State =+
- September 25: Kennewick, WA – Toyota Center – Kennewick =+
- September 26: Everett, WA – Angel of the Winds Arena =+
- September 27: Airway Heights, WA – BECU Live at Northern Quest =+
- October 19: Copenhagen, Denmark – Vega
- October 20: Stockholm, Sweden – Cirkus
- October 21: Oslo, Norway – Sentrum Scene
- October 23: Hamburg, Germany – Docks
- October 24: Utrecht, Netherlands – Tivolivredenburg
- October 25: Antwerp, Belgium – Trix
- October 27: Belfast, UK – Ulster Hall
- October 29: London, UK – Eventim Apollo
- October 30: Manchester, UK – O2 Apollo
- October 31: Glasgow, UK – SEC Armadillo
- November 13 – 15: Miramar Beach, FL – Odie’s Beach Vacation
= : ERNEST + : Redferrin * : Ty Myers ^ : John Morgan
All dates are on sale now.
About Old Dominion:
Old Dominion’s consistent blend of clever lyrics, infectious melodies, and electrifying live shows has firmly cemented their place at the forefront of country music. Their ability to fuse country, rock, and pop has earned them a multi-platinum status, billions of on-demand streams, and numerous awards. Rolling Stone aptly described them as “one of mainstream country music’s most popular live groups.” With nine No. 1 singles at country radio and a dozen RIAA Platinum and Gold single certifications, they’ve proven their winning formula time and again.
In September, the band released their greatest hits compilation, Odies but Goodies, a 31-track collection that beautifully chronicles their journey from a promising act to a meaningful headliner, largely shaped by fan favorites. Old Dominion holds the distinction of being the reigning 8X Academy of Country Music and 7X Country Music Association “Group of the Year.” Their seventh successive win for “Vocal Group of the Year” at the 2024 CMA Awards broke the record for most consecutive wins in CMA history, a feat they celebrated with a seven-show residency at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium, raising over $1.25M for various charities. Most recently, they secured their historic 8th consecutive “Group of the Year” win at the 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards, shattering both the all-time and consecutive win records in the category.