Concerts

Concert Review: Vince Gill at the Lexington Opera House

by Jessica Blankenship
Vince Gill – by Jessica Blankenship
On Friday night, Vince Gill conducted the perfect orchestra of musical blends at the Lexington Opera House in Lexington, Ky. Clocking in just over 2 1/2 hours, audience members took a musical journey of what Vince Gill is composed of.
Opening up the show with East Virginia Blues and Lonesome Wind Blues, it was evident that bluegrass was front and center. Coming to the state where bluegrass originated, you would think Gill would be hesitate to cover tunes by Bill Monroe, The Osborne Brothers, and others from Kentucky that make bluegrass home. Instead, he honored them with his renditions.
One way of honoring the tradition of bluegrass music was playing “Earl’s Breakdown” in memory of the late Earl Scruggs. He also spoke many stories over time of the late Bill Monroe, as well as those on Del McCoury and others. He would even go on and play “Blue Moon of Kentucky” much to the delight of audience members.
Midway through his set, Vince Gill allowed his band to take a break so that he could showcase the tunes that made him famous. During each tune, he told the story of how it was written and tidbits that you would not find anywhere else.
During “Look At Us,” you could see couples wiping tears from their eyes as they reminisce of their married years. Gill’s high tenor vocals soared to feel the room with emotion with “When I Call Your Name” and “Whenever You Come Around.” The heartfelt “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was sung with power with each note.
At the end, the band rejoined Gill for more bluegrass music fun. Ending the night was the Bill Monroe classic, “My Rose of Old Kentucky.” Whether it is bluegrass or country music, Vince Gill showcased his musical talents with ease. The fans all agree that he is welcomed anytime back to Kentucky for more fun.