The Setlist & The Script

Last night, I found myself in the heart of Manchester at the AO Arena, surrounded by thousands of fellow rock enthusiasts, eagerly awaiting a night with Black Stone Cherry. It was my fifth time seeing the Kentucky rockers, but from the moment the lights dimmed and the opening chords of Me and Mary Jane echoed through the arena, it was clear this would be their best performance yet.

Me and Mary Jane set the perfect tone for the evening—raw energy, infectious hooks, and a connection with the audience that felt immediate and genuine. The crowd surged with every beat, singing along passionately, and I knew we were in for something special right from the start.

As the night progressed, the band kept delivering hit after hit. Like I Roll was a standout moment, showcasing Black Stone Cherry’s signature blend of hard-hitting rock and heartfelt lyrics. The energy in the arena was electric as everyone joined in, creating a sea of voices united by the music. It’s one of those anthems that perfectly encapsulates what I love about the band—their ability to create songs that resonate deeply with their fans.

Blind Man hit like a freight train, with heavy riffs that shook the entire arena. It’s a track that never fails to get a crowd moving, and last night was no exception. Chris Robertson’s gritty, soulful vocals carried the song effortlessly, and the crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable. The floor seemed to vibrate with every beat, and I found myself lost in the moment, completely immersed in the music.

One of the night’s most electrifying moments came with Cheaper to Drink Alone. If the song wasn’t already a powerhouse, drummer John Fred Young took it to another level with an absolutely insane drum solo. His performance was a masterclass in showmanship—sticks flying, rhythms so complex they left the audience in awe. The crowd erupted in a standing ovation before the song even finished, a testament to John’s incredible talent and the band’s ability to captivate their audience.

A standout surprise of the evening was the band’s cover of American Horse by The Cult. If that wasn’t thrilling enough, Ayron Jones and John Cooper of Skillet joined Black Stone Cherry on stage, creating a supergroup moment that I’ll be talking about for years. Watching these three powerhouse acts jam together was pure magic. The energy was electric, and the chemistry between them was undeniable, making the performance one of the highlights of the night.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening came with Things My Father Said. The band dedicated the song to anyone who has lost a father, a deeply personal nod that resonated with me and many others in the crowd. As lighters (and phone flashlights) lit up the arena, the atmosphere shifted to something almost sacred. It was a beautiful reminder of the emotional depth Black Stone Cherry brings to their music, fostering a profound connection between the band and their fans.

Of course, no Black Stone Cherry gig would be complete without a memorable finale, and last night’s closer, Peace Is Free, was a showstopper. Chris Robertson left the stage and walked right into the audience, singing as he made his way through the sea of fans. Seeing him up close, pouring every ounce of himself into the performance, was a moment of pure, unfiltered joy. The song’s message of unity and hope resonated more than ever, and as the crowd sang along, it felt like we were all part of something much bigger than just a concert.

Reflecting on the night, it’s clear this was Black Stone Cherry at their absolute peak. The energy, the musicianship, the surprises—it all came together in a way that felt almost otherworldly. I’ve seen them five times now, but last night stood head and shoulders above the rest.

If you ever get the chance to see Black Stone Cherry live, don’t hesitate. They’re a band that not only plays incredible music but creates moments you’ll carry with you long after the last note fades. As I walked out of the AO Arena, surrounded by smiling faces and buzzing conversations, I couldn’t help but feel grateful to have witnessed something so special. Here’s to Black Stone Cherry, a band that truly knows how to leave their mark.