Eric Church To Open Nashville’s Newest Amphitheater

You need a big act to open a big venue.  That’s why country star Eric Church will be the very first act to play the in Nashville this summer when he walks out on that stage for a rare solo performance.

Photo: Arnold Wells
Frank Erwin Center, Austin, TX

It will just be a man and his guitar when Church walks out on the brand spanking new stage at the Ascend July 30. Named as one of the “50 Greatest Live Acts Right Now” by Rolling Stone, Church set a new attendance record at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville in January when 18,441 fans filled the venue.

The Ascend Amphitheater is located at Nashville’s Riverfront Park.  Church’s opening night show was announced this week by Live Nation and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.

“The newest addition to Music City’s live music scene will get off to a great start with a concert from Eric Church, who represents what’s great about Music City,” Dean said.  “His songs can’t be confined to just one genre; he draws from country, rock and other types of music that help make the scene here in Nashville so vibrant and eclectic.”

Hizzoner’s words could also describe the amphitheater’s lineup for the remainder of the summer.  The Ascend’s schedule includes Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire, (Aug. 1); Phish (Aug. 4); Jill Scott (Aug. 5); Counting Crows (Aug. 7); and Steely Dan and Elvis Costello (Aug. 8).  Other acts appearing at the new venue include The Smashing Pumpkins with Marilyn Manson; Needtobreathe; Peter Frampton with Cheap Trick; Sublime With Rome; and with Sugar Ray, Better Than Ezra, Uncle Kracker, and .

Tickets for CMA and four-time ACM award-winner Church go on sale April 30 at 10 a.m. CDT.  Visit AscendAmphitheater.com for more information.