Country music fans from all over Manitoba flocked to The Park Theatre in Winnipeg on November 6, 2023, for a remarkable night of live music, featuring Canadian country artists MacKenzie Porter and Griffen Palmer. The venue was packed to the brim, with an excited and diverse crowd ready to be serenaded by two incredibly talented artists.
Griffen Palmer. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Griffen Palmer, with his charming stage presence and soulful vocals, kicked off the night's performances with a setlist that immediately set the tone for a memorable evening. His set included fan favourites like "Small Town" and "Heart of Exes," and he masterfully covered iconic tracks like "Tennessee Whiskey" and "Tequila" -originally by Dan + Shay. The highlight of his performance was "Crying Over You," a song he co-wrote alongside The Band CAMINO and Chelsea Cutler. Griffen's voice was pure magic, and his rendition of "Second Guessing," a track he originally pitched on the hit TV show Songland, was met with a thunderous applause from the audience.
Following Griffen Palmer's electrifying performance, it was time for MacKenzie Porter to take the stage. The Canadian country sensation wowed the crowd from the get-go with a powerful rendition of "These Days." Her setlist was an emotional rollercoaster that showcased her incredible range and versatility as a performer. Tracks like "Rough Ride" and "Drinking Songs" had the audience tapping their feet and singing along.
MacKenzie Porter. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
One of the most unforgettable moments of the night was MacKenzie's unexpected cover of "Teenage Dirtbag" by Wheatus, where she surprised the audience by taking on the drums for the song's energetic finale. Her unique twist on this classic hit left everyone in awe. The artist also displayed her acoustic prowess by performing "If You Ask Me To" and "Pay Me Back," showcasing the raw beauty of her vocals.
MacKenzie Porter continued to impress the audience with her rendition of "Watermelon Sugar" by Harry Styles and delivered an outstanding medley of covers that included hits from Deana Carter, Avril Lavigne, TLC, Sheryl Crow, Destiny's Child, and Meredith Brooks. The crowd couldn't help but sing every word along to these iconic tunes.
The show reached its pinnacle when MacKenzie performed a major song in her discography that played a significant role in jumpstarting her career, "Thinking 'Bout You," a duet released with Dustin Lynch.
For the encore, MacKenzie Porter returned to the stage to perform her hit single "Pick Up," leaving the crowd on an emotional high and longing for more. The Park Theatre was filled with cheers, applause, and a standing ovation as the artists bid farewell to an ecstatic crowd.
MacKenzie Porter and Griffen Palmer's performance at The Park Theatre was a night to remember, filled with passionate music, captivating vocals, and a shared love of country music. The audience left the venue with their hearts full and their spirits lifted, a testament to the power of live music and the extraordinary talents of these Canadian country artists. It was a night of unforgettable performances and a testament to the thriving country music scene in Canada.