Lasso Country Music Festival Day 1

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Lasso 2025 Day 1 ROCKS Montréal

Day one of the Lasso Country Music Festival in Montreal set the tone for a weekend filled with high-energy performances, hometown heroes, and rising stars in country music. From the very first note, fans were treated to a diverse lineup, ranging from intimate, heartfelt sets to explosive, larger-than-life performances. Quebec’s own Vince Lemire kicked things off with a hometown crowd in full support, while artists from across Canada and the United States brought their unique sounds, stage presence, and personality to the festival.

Whether it was a twangy Virginia band, a Georgia singer with a matching pink guitar, or Canadian talents bringing unmatched energy, the festival’s first day proved that country music has a wide-reaching and electrifying appeal. The crowd was alive, the stages were buzzing, and the first day of Lasso delivered exactly what fans had come to see: music, passion, and unforgettable performances.

Vince Lemire

Quebec native Vince Lemire opened the festival with a strong performance that immediately captivated the hometown crowd. Known for his relatable lyrics and warm stage presence, Vince was joined by fellow Quebec artist Francis Degrandpré, creating a dynamic collaboration that had fans buzzing from the start. The chemistry between the two performers was evident, especially when Francis joined Vince for a lively rendition of one of Vince’s popular songs, adding extra energy and interaction that delighted the audience.

Vince’s set balanced heartfelt storytelling with engaging melodies, giving festival-goers a full sense of his artistry. The hometown hero energy was palpable, with fans singing along and cheering for every note. Vince’s ability to connect with the crowd set a high standard for the rest of the day, proving why he’s a rising star in Quebec’s country music scene and establishing a memorable opening to the festival.

The Jack Wharff Band

Hailing from Virginia, The Jack Wharff Band brought a distinctly twangy, southern country sound to the festival. Their set showcased tight instrumentation and lively stage presence, keeping the crowd engaged throughout. The band’s chemistry was clear, with each member feeding off the energy of the others, creating a cohesive and enjoyable performance. Fans responded enthusiastically to the upbeat rhythms and catchy hooks, with many dancing and singing along.

While their music carried a traditional country flavor, it was infused with a modern sensibility that appealed to a diverse festival audience. The Jack Wharff Band’s set demonstrated both their technical skill and their ability to connect emotionally through music, providing festival-goers with a memorable experience. By the end of their performance, the crowd was fully immersed, appreciative of the band’s energy, talent, and dedication to delivering a strong, authentic country show.

Sully Burrows

Young artist Sully Burrows, from a small town in Ontario, brought a fresh perspective to the festival with his playful and relatable storytelling. Many of his songs focused on everyday experiences, including tales about liquor stores and small-town life, which resonated with the audience. Sully’s energetic performance and youthful enthusiasm made it easy for fans to connect with him, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

Despite being early in his career, he demonstrated impressive stage presence and confidence, holding the attention of a festival crowd that might have otherwise gravitated toward more established acts. His approachable demeanor, combined with catchy melodies and engaging lyrics, gave fans a glimpse into a promising career. Sully Burrows’ set was a reminder of the joy and relatability that small-town country music can bring, and he left a lasting impression that made many in the audience eager to follow his journey.

Francis Degrandpré

Quebec native Francis Degrandpré made a high-energy appearance during Vince Lemire’s set, instantly igniting the crowd with his infectious enthusiasm. Known for his vibrant performances, Francis delivered a memorable rendition of his hit song “Bang Bang,” which had fans singing and dancing along. His stage presence is magnetic, effortlessly commanding attention while interacting with the audience in a way that feels personal yet electric. Fans responded to his energy with loud cheers and waves of applause, highlighting his popularity in the local music scene.

Francis blends raw passion with skilled performance, creating moments that are both fun and emotionally engaging. By joining Vince Lemire on stage, he not only showcased his collaborative spirit but also added an extra layer of excitement to the festival’s opening acts. Francis Degrandpré’s performance reminded everyone why he’s considered one of Quebec’s most dynamic country artists and set a standard for the rest of the day.

Willow Avalon

Willow Avalon, hailing from Georgia, brought a visually striking and musically captivating set to the festival. Dressed in a pink outfit and wielding a matching guitar, she immediately grabbed the audience’s attention with both style and talent. Willow’s performance was polished, highlighting her skill as a musician and her confidence on stage. Her set combined heartfelt country melodies with energetic delivery, creating a balance that appealed to both longtime country fans and newcomers alike.

She engaged with the audience throughout, smiling, moving, and making the crowd feel connected to her music. While her stage presence was charming, her musicality truly stood out, demonstrating a level of professionalism beyond her years. Willow Avalon’s performance was not just a display of talent but also a showcase of personality, leaving the audience impressed and excited for what she’ll bring to future stages. Her appearance added a fresh, vibrant energy to the festival that was impossible to ignore.

Kevin Smiley

Kevin Smiley’s set was an intimate and emotional highlight of the festival. Known for his song “Paralyzed,” which first put him on the map, he delivered a heartfelt performance that resonated deeply with the crowd. Smiley’s calm stage presence contrasted with some of the more energetic performances of the day, creating a reflective and serene atmosphere. He also introduced new music, including the song “Hurricane,” which showcased his songwriting skills and musical growth.

Fans were drawn into his world through his expressive vocals and honest storytelling, hanging on every word. The simplicity and authenticity of Kevin’s performance made it clear why he has a growing fanbase, as listeners felt a personal connection to the music. By blending classic hits with new material, he struck a balance between familiarity and innovation. Kevin Smiley’s set provided a quieter but equally powerful moment on day one, demonstrating the range of talent at the festival.

Tyler Braeden

Nashville-based Tyler Braeden delivered a powerful and memorable set that highlighted his vocal strength and command of the stage. Known for his emotive performances, Tyler captivated the audience with his ability to convey raw emotion through song. His vocal range and dynamic delivery stood out, impressing both longtime country fans and newcomers. Throughout his performance, Tyler’s presence felt commanding yet approachable, drawing in the audience and maintaining their attention from start to finish. His combination of stage charisma and musical talent positioned him as one of the rising stars of the country scene.

Each song was delivered with intention and passion, leaving the crowd engaged and energized. Tyler Braeden’s set reinforced the festival’s commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent, proving that he is a performer capable of holding his own on a major stage while making a lasting impression on every listener present.

Savannah Jade

Canadian singer Savannah Jade brought an infectious energy to the stage that captivated the audience from the first note. Her performance was both powerful and polished, a testament to her extensive vocal training and stage experience. Known for her ability to command attention, Savannah combined precise singing with lively dance moves, creating a visually engaging and entertaining set. Her connection with the crowd was undeniable, as fans responded enthusiastically to every move and note.

Beyond her stagecraft, Savannah’s musicality stood out—her voice effortlessly carried emotion and nuance, showcasing her versatility as an artist. The energy she brought was contagious, with audience members dancing, singing along, and fully immersing themselves in the performance. Savannah Jade’s set demonstrated both her technical skill and her charisma, leaving a lasting impression that highlighted why she is quickly becoming a standout figure in the Canadian country music scene.

Rick Duff

Montreal’s Rick Duff dominated the small backyard stage with a performance that fully showcased his talent and stage presence. He opened his set by throwing branded Rick Duff shirts into the crowd, immediately creating a sense of connection and excitement among his fans. Backed by an energetic band, Duff’s performance was high-octane and engaging, leaving no doubt about his ability to command a stage. The combination of his vocal talent, charisma, and crowd interaction made him one of the day’s standout performers.

Fans were fully immersed, singing along to every song and responding enthusiastically to his stage antics. Rick Duff’s ability to engage with both the music and the audience created an electric atmosphere, making his set one of the most memorable moments of the festival. By the end, it was clear that he had not only met but exceeded fan expectations, solidifying his place as a beloved local artist.

Wyatt Flores

Wyatt Flores, a rising star in the country music world, delivered one of the most impressive sets of the day. Drawing the largest crowd so far, he captured the audience’s attention with both his vocals and stage presence. Wyatt’s set included a mix of his original hits and a cover of The Fray, showing his versatility and willingness to engage with different musical styles. His interaction with the audience was warm and engaging, creating a sense of intimacy despite the large crowd.

Wyatt and his band maintained high energy throughout the performance, keeping fans engaged and entertained from start to finish. The combination of his popularity, musical skill, and charisma ensured that his performance left a lasting impact. Wyatt Flores’ set proved why he is considered one of the most exciting up-and-coming country artists, leaving fans eager for his next release and solidifying his reputation on the festival stage.

Shaboozy

Returning to Montreal for the second time this month, Shaboozy brought a unique blend of hip hop and country to the main stage. His energetic performance was met with a massive and enthusiastic crowd, reflecting his growing popularity in the city. Shaboozy performed an extended version of his hit “Tipsy,” even taking the song into the audience for a more intimate connection with fans. His visible emotion on stage, combined with his evident joy at returning to Montreal, created a memorable moment that fans won’t soon forget.

Blending genres seamlessly, Shaboozy demonstrated both musical creativity and stage presence, taking the festival experience to new heights. His set stood out as one of the day’s most memorable, highlighting his ability to connect with the audience and leave a lasting impression, proving that his energy and talent resonate across diverse musical styles.

Sheryl Crow

Country music legend Sheryl Crow delivered a performance that reminded the audience why she has had such a lasting impact on the industry. Her set was filled with iconic hits, including “If It Makes You Happy” and “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” performed with energy and precision. Crow’s guitar solos were a standout, demonstrating her technical skill and musical artistry, while her stage presence engaged fans of all ages. The audience sang along enthusiastically, bridging generations with shared appreciation for her music.

Crow’s ability to combine charisma, vocal talent, and stage command made her set unforgettable, highlighting her continued relevance in the country music world. It was a true honor for fans and photographers alike to witness such a legendary performer, and her appearance provided a powerful, nostalgic, and energizing moment within the festival’s first day.

Bailey Zimmerman

Bailey Zimmerman closed the day with an unforgettable performance that combined theatrics, energy, and musical talent. He opened with a dramatic entrance, swinging down from a rope to the catwalk, immediately captivating the packed audience. Backed by flames and CO2 blasts, his set was visually striking and full of adrenaline, reflecting his reputation as a performer who knows how to put on a show. Bailey maintained relentless energy throughout, engaging the audience while performing his hits.

Fans eagerly sang along, and he was joined on stage by Cameron Whitcomb and Shaboozy for an extended celebration, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement. Bailey Zimmerman’s performance demonstrated his ability to captivate and energize a large crowd, ending the festival day on a high note. The combination of spectacle, talent, and audience connection made his set a highlight of the entire weekend.

Day 1 of Lasso Closes with a huge SWING

As the sun set on day one of Lasso, it was clear that the festival had delivered an unforgettable start. From the intimate storytelling of Kevin Smiley to the crowd-commanding antics of Bailey Zimmerman, each performance offered something unique and memorable. Legendary artists like Sheryl Crow reminded fans of the lasting impact of country music, while rising stars such as Wyatt Flores and Shaboozy proved that the genre’s future is bright and full of talent.

Montreal’s backyard stages were alive with energy, laughter, and sing-alongs, leaving fans buzzing with excitement for what was still to come. Day one was more than just a series of performances—it was a celebration of country music, artistry, and community, setting a high bar for the rest of the weekend at Lasso.

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