Jo Dee Messina, the iconic country artist, transported fans on a journey through her life at a sold-out performance at the legendary Ryman Auditorium on Saturday night. The electrifying event was a culmination of her “Road to the Ryman” retrospective, where she shared the musical influences and pivotal moments that shaped her career.
From her upbringing in Massachusetts to her move to Nashville, Messina’s performance was a heartfelt tribute to the songs that have defined her journey. Hits like “Baby, I Lied,” “Break It To Me Gently,” and “Whoever’s In New England” resonated with the audience, showcasing Messina’s remarkable talent and enduring appeal.
The evening took a poignant turn as Messina shared her personal testimony and faith journey with the crowd. Joined by a Gospel choir from Three Oaks Church in Gallatin, Tennessee, she delivered soul-stirring renditions of songs like “My Jesus” and “Reckless Love,” touching hearts and inspiring all in attendance.
Photo ID (L to R): Wasserman Music’s Nate Ritches, Vanderbilt’s Stuart Dill, Red Light Management’s Bryan Frasher, Jo Dee Messina, Curb Records’ Benson Curb, Jen Swirsky, 117 Entertainment’s Zach Farnum
Prior to the show, Messina was honored with five plaques commemorating her certified RIAA Gold, Platinum, and Double Platinum statuses, further solidifying her legacy in country music history. Hits like “I’m Alright,” “Bye Bye,” and “Heads Carolina, Tails California” were celebrated, underscoring Messina’s enduring impact on the genre.
Looking ahead, Messina’s Heads Carolina, Tails California (HCTC2) Tour promises to captivate audiences around the country, with a special homecoming leg in New England. With her upcoming performance at Fenway Park for the Boston Red Sox game and a show at the House of Blues, Messina is poised to reconnect with her roots and thrill fans old and new.
Jo Dee Messina’s remarkable career is a testament to her passion, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to her craft. With a string of chart-topping hits and numerous accolades, she continues to inspire audiences with her honesty and openness on stage. As she embarks on the next chapter of her musical journey, Messina remains a true icon of country music, beloved by millions of fans worldwide.
Heads Carolina, Tails California (HCTC2) Tour Dates:
- May 16 – Shipshewana, Ind. – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
- May 17 – Rosemont, Ill. – Joe’s Live
- May 18 – Troy, Ohio – Hobart Arena
- May 31 – Stamford, Conn. – Palace Theatre *
- June 1 – Webster, Mass. – Indian Ranch *
- June 2 – Boston, Mass. – House of Blues *
- June 6 – Sidney, Maine – The Bowl in the Pines *
- June 7 – Hampton Beach – N.H. – Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom *
- June 8 – Hyannis, Mass. – Cape Cod Melody Tent *
- June 14 – Santa Rosa, Calif. – Country Summer Music Festival
- June 15 – Corona, Calif. – Dos Lagos Amphitheater
- June 28 – Redwood Falls, Minn. – Vicki’s Camp N Country Jam
- June 29 – Fargo, N.D.Outdoors at Fargo Brewing
- June 30 – Dauphin, Man. – Dauphin’s Countryfest
- July 6 – Petoskey- Mich. – Great Lakes Center for the Arts
- July 10 – Nashville, Ill. – Washington Country Fairgrounds
- July 11 – Fort Loramie, Ohio – Country Concert
- July 13 – Pendleton, Ore. – Pendleton Whisky Music Festival
- July 19 – Dam Jam Music Festival
- Aug. 1 – Regina, Canada – Conexus Arts Centre
- Aug. 2 – Camrose, Canada – Big Valley Jamboree
- Aug. 4 – Sioux Falls, S.D. – Sioux Empire Fair
- Aug. 16 – Centre Hall, Penn. – Centre Country Grange Fair
- Aug. 17 – Winston-Salem, N.C. – Winston Salem Fairgrounds Annex
- Aug. 24 – Mason, Wisc. – Concert In the Corn
- Sept. 6 – Albuquerque, N.M. – New Mexico State Fair
- Oct. 26 – West Chester, Ohio – Lori’s Roadhouse
- Feb. 8-13, 2025 – Miami Gardens, Fla. – Boots on the Water Cruise
*denotes New England Homecoming dates