Winnipeg's Canada Life Centre was buzzing with excitement on a crisp September night as two of country music's brightest stars, The Chicks and Maren Morris, took the stage for a night of unforgettable music. The air was charged with anticipation, and the crowd was ready to witness a musical spectacle, and they weren't disappointed.
Maren Morris kicked off the evening with a bang, immediately captivating the audience with her powerhouse vocals and undeniable stage presence. Her setlist was a mix of her chart-topping hits and heart-touching ballads, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Starting with "Circles Around This Town," she had the audience singing along from the very first note. "80s Mercedes" and "I Wish I Was" followed, keeping the energy high.
One of the standout moments of Morris's performance was her rendition of "The Bones." The song's emotional depth resonated with the crowd, and the venue was filled with an intimate atmosphere as fans swayed to the music. Maren Morris closed her set with the anthemic "My Church," leaving the audience on a high note and eagerly awaiting the main event.
All photos by Samuel Stevens.
The Chicks made a triumphant return to the stage, and their performance was nothing short of spectacular. Opening with "Gaslighter," they immediately made a statement and set the tone for an electrifying evening. Their setlist was a well-curated blend of classics and newer material, showcasing their enduring talent and musical evolution.
"Sin Wagon" and "Texas Man" had the audience dancing along, while the poignant "Travelin' Soldier" brought a hush over the arena, highlighting The Chicks' ability to convey deep emotions through their music. A surprise highlight was the "Daddy Lessons/Long Time Gone Medley," seamlessly blending their own hit with Beyoncé's "Daddy Lessons."
Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer's harmonies were pitch-perfect, and their camaraderie on stage was palpable. The emotional high point of the evening was their rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide," which received a standing ovation from the crowd. The Chicks also paid tribute to their musical influences, both past and present, by covering Miley Cyrus' "Rainbowland" and Patty Griffin's "Don't Let Me Die in Florida," both performed with heartfelt sincerity.
As the night drew to a close, the crowd was treated to a rousing rendition of "Not Ready to Make Nice," which remains an anthem of resilience and empowerment. The Chicks ended the night on a high note with "Goodbye Earl," leaving the audience buzzing with excitement and appreciation for the legendary trio.
In the end, The Chicks and Maren Morris delivered a night of music that will be etched in the memories of Winnipeg's country music enthusiasts for years to come. It was a celebration of exceptional talent, powerful lyrics, and the unifying force of music. Winnipeg was indeed lucky to have been part of such an extraordinary concert experience.