Parker McCollum Burns It Down in Boston
Friday night we found ourselves back at MGM Music Hall at Fenway. I love this venue so much. This state-of-the-art concert venue located right next to the iconic Fenway Park in Boston. Opened in 2022, it offers an intimate yet vibrant setting for live performances, with a capacity of around 5,000 guests. The venue features cutting-edge acoustics, stunning lighting, and tiered seating, making it perfect for both large-scale concerts and smaller, more personal events. With its prime location, just steps away from the historic ballpark, the MGM Music Hall has quickly become a go-to spot for music lovers in the heart of the city. Every time we cover a show here it’s a great experience and one we look forward to. On this night I would have the pleasure to experience our second Parker McCollum concert of the year.
Parker McCollum's journey to stardom is marked by an authentic connection to his Texas roots. Born in 1992, he grew up listening to a mix of classic country legends like Willie Nelson and rock icons like Tom Petty, influences that shaped his unique sound. He started performing in Texas honky-tonks while attending college and quickly built a loyal following in the regional scene. His debut album, The Limestone Kid (2015), was a turning point, drawing attention with standout tracks like "Meet You in the Middle." This album showcased his storytelling ability, blending personal experiences with a sense of wanderlust that resonated with fans. McCollum followed this up with Probably Wrong in 2017, an album full of raw emotion that explored themes of heartbreak and self-discovery. McCollum’s career took off on a national level with his 2020 EP Hollywood Gold, which included the breakout single "Pretty Heart." The song catapulted him to the top of the Billboard Country Airplay charts, earning him accolades and a growing fanbase across the country. His success continued with his 2021 album Gold Chain Cowboy, which featured hits like "To Be Loved by You."
In 2022, McCollum won the Academy of Country Music's New Male Artist of the Year award, cementing his place as one of the brightest new stars in country music. Known for his introspective lyrics, blend of country-rock, and high-energy performances, Parker McCollum continues to carve out a distinctive space in modern country, while remaining true to his Texas roots.
His appeal lies not only in his compelling songwriting but also in his relatable persona—someone who writes honestly about life’s ups and downs, making him a voice for a new generation of country fans.
Continuing to sell out venues across the country, McCollum's live performances are known for their energy and connection with the crowd, blending personal storytelling with anthemic moments. As his career continues to unfold, Parker McCollum is poised to become one of the defining artists of modern country, combining the authenticity of traditional country with a fresh, modern sound that appeals to both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
This being my second concert of the year experiencing the Burn It Down tour I knew what to expect. That was not the case. This show very similar to the BankNH show we went to earlier in the year. That isn’t a bad thing. Not even close. This show was just as spectacular as the first show. McCollum’s energy rivals that of a HARDY show. The energy level is through the roof. Your blood immediately starts to boil and you realize you are in for an unforgettable experience. The concert has everything you want. The production features a large stage with elevated drums and a massive screen showing projections that fit perfectly with the songs. You want pyrotechnics? You are getting that as well. Most importantly what you are getting is someone who loves their craft. An entertainer to the fullest. He comes out right off the bat and knocks you off your feet opening the show with “Hurricane”. From that point you never set down. Why would you?
We cover lots of genres of music so I get to experience the different types of artists or bands and how they interact with their fans. Nothing competes with country acts. McCollum continues this trend and takes it a notch up. He is constantly calling out fans in the stands and interacting with them. He doesn’t stop there. McCollum will sign just about anything he can reach from the stage or you can reach when you toss it. Got a phone and want a selfie? He is your guy. He will take your phone and click away. I love when artists do this. On the surface it seems like “what a nice guy”. If you dig deeper it’s more than that. Americans hold stars on a pedestal and have become more than just regular people. When McCollum takes time out to address specific people he may be changing people’s lives. It really is shocking to think that but I see it first hand at these shows. Girls crying because McCollum simply looked right at them making eye contact. It’s just an overall great experience. Seeing the crowd interactions are the biggest take away from the show.
Personally I love when McCollum slows it down and plays “Rest of My Life”. This track just hits me every time. This song is my favorite by McCollum. Despite the high energy of his show it’s these moments that really stand out to me. Everyone calms down and lets their guard down listening to these introspective lyrics. Don’t worry you don’t stay in slow motion mode for too long. McCollum and the exquisite band will bring that energy back up before closing out the show with his massive hit “Burn It Down”. The pyro comes back and everyone can go home happy from an absolutely fantastic show. I am sure you guessed it by now but you need to BUY.THE.TICKET. next time Parker McCollum is in down.
Click HERE to see more photos from this show!
October 17, 2024: Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley, AZ
October 18, 2024: Tucson Arena, Tucson, AZ
October 19, 2024: PH Live at Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas, NV
October 24, 2024: Honda Center, Anaheim, CA
October 25, 2024: Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre at SDSU, San Diego, CA
October 26, 2024: Tahoe Blue Event Center, Stateline, NV