The stars were aligned over Conroe, Texas on a cool October evening, as the Cajun Catfish Festival welcomed an electrifying double bill featuring the Southern rock juggernaut Blackberry Smoke and the gritty honky-tonk sounds of Whitey Morgan and the 78's. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the stage lit up, and the crowd was in for a night of unforgettable music.

    Kicking off the night, Whitey Morgan and the 78's took the stage with their distinctive blend of outlaw country. Morgan, donned in a short sleeve black t-shirt and denim vest, oozed authenticity and raw talent. His gravelly, emotionally charged voice captivated the audience from the first note, transporting them to a smoky, dimly lit honky-tonk. With tracks like "Cocaine Train" and "Buick City Blues," the band evoked the spirit of legends like Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard. It was a perfect warm-up for what was to come.

    The anticipation in the air was electric as the stage transitioned for the main act. Blackberry Smoke emerged in a blaze of glory, immediately launching into the high-octane, riff-heavy "You Hear Georgia." Lead vocalist and guitarist Charlie Starr led the charge with his soulful voice and masterful guitar work, instantly igniting the crowd.

    What made this performance stand out was the band's effortless ability to blend rock, country, and blues into a harmonious concoction. "One Horse Town" and "Pretty Little Lie" showcased the band's songwriting prowess, while songs like "Waiting for the Thunder" and "Run Away From It All" delivered thunderous, foot-stomping rock 'n' roll that kept the entire audience on their feet.

    The camaraderie and chemistry among the band members were evident as they traded licks and engaged in spontaneous jam sessions that had the crowd cheering in approval. Blackberry Smoke's deep connection with their fans was undeniable and it created a sense of unity that's rare to find at a concert.

    Throughout the night Blackberry Smoke kept the energy level high, their enthusiasm infectious, and the crowd responded with unwavering enthusiasm. The band's dedication to their craft was evident and it felt as though they were playing as if their lives depended on it.

    As the night drew to a close Blackberry Smoke returned for an encore that included "Sunrise in Texas" and "Ain't Much Left of Me." Their performance was a heartfelt tribute to Southern rock heritage paying homage to those who inspired them while leaving their indelible mark on the genre.

    In conclusion, the Blackberry Smoke and Whitey Morgan and the 78's concert at the Cajun Catfish Festival in Conroe, Texas was a musical journey that transported the audience to the heart of Southern rock and honky-tonk. With a perfect blend of rock 'n' roll, country and blues, both bands delivered performances that were nothing short of spectacular. The night was a testament to the enduring power of live music and the unifying force of Southern culture. If you missed it, you missed a show for the ages.


Blackberry Smoke:
You Hear Georgia
Live It Down
Good One Comin' On
Like I Am
Pretty Little Lie
Living in the Song
Let It Burn
Hey Delilah
Crimson Moon
Sleeping Dogs (With "You Don't Know How It Feels" interlude)
Ain't the Same
Lonesome for a Livin'
Waiting for the Thunder
Ain't Got the Blues
Run Away From It All
Dig A Hole
One Horse Town
Little Bit Crazy
Old Scarecrow

Encore:
Sunrise in Texas (Michael Tolcher cover)
Play Video
Ain't Much Left of Me (With "Boogie Chillen'" interlude)