Prince George has had its fair share of superstar concerts. Many within the touring entertainment industry have suggested P.G. has actually punched above its weight, in that regard.
Well another belt will soon be cinched around this city's cultural hips. Few country music artists are as huge, right now in the collective consciousness, as Keith Urban and he bring his "ripCORD World Tour" here this fall.
"Simply...it is one of the biggest shows ever to come to Prince George and the CN Centre," said Glen Mikkelsen, manager of the venue.
Keith Urban has long been hailed as one of the music industry's best live performers who has always given his fans electrifying and unpredictable shows with eye-popping production and a set list that is saturated with many of his hit songs (20 have gone to No. 1 on the country charts, and he's one of those special breakout artists who get appreciated by pop crowds as much as traditional country fans). His on-stage presentation has been called electrifying and emotional, fast-paced and unpredictable, an explosive experience, a roller coaster ride.
Add in the fact he's married to film superstar Nicole Kidman, he was one of the judges on megashow American Idol (also on The Voice in its Australian version), and he's won more awards than any mantle has room to hold them all.
"Our Canadian shows have always been off the hook giant parties," said Urban. "From the very first shows I ever did, there was a synergy with the audience that's only grown stronger over the years. I can't wait to bring the 'ripCORD World Tour' to everyone this year."
Opening for Urban are two other bright lights in the country world.
The first name on the undercard is Texas folk-pop-country songwriter Maren Morris. She is more than a rising star. She has already been to the top of the Billboard Heat-Seeker Album Chart, her self-titled EP has was streamed more than 5 million times in its first two weeks, and she has made the "next big thing" lists by CMT, Rolling Stone Country, VEVO and other platforms.
But P.G. fans will pay particular attention to the main Canadian attraction on the marquee. Dallas Smith is coming along for this wild ride. The Vancouver-based national treasure has earned piles of Juno Award and Canadian Country Music Award attention, he already has plenty of gold in his record collection, and the best part of all is his taste in bandmates. Prince George musician Jer Breaks, a popular draw in this town all on his own, is one of his sidemen. Keith Urban may not get a cheer as big as the one the CN Centre audience may lay down for the return of homeboy Jer Breaks.
Breaks, Smith, Morris and Urban are all descending on CN Centre on Sept. 13. Ticket prices range from about $100-$150 (service charges and taxes are extra). Fan club members can purchase as of May 3, and the public on-sale date is May 6 at 10 a.m.
