What a super fun Sunday evening at Pridefest. A little more sunshine would have been nice, but otherwise the weather was perfect for a lakefront party. All of the rainbows helped to brighten things up. Leann Rimes concert was set to begin at 7:00. I got there plenty early and had nice seats picked out nestled in front of the Miller stage with a beer in one hand and camera in the other. My friend Barb & I took turns for beer runs to keep our selected spots.

Opening for Leann Rimes we had a great time with Chely Wright who was absolutely beautiful. She looked great in a pair of jeans with a white shirt and a blue jacket. She expressed how excited she was to be there and that it was nice to be herself, completely open and honest about who she is. The crowd applauded and showed a return of appreciation. Chely was very interactive with the audience and made the show feel very intimate. She sang many songs including “Jezebel”, “What If We Fly”, and oh yes “Single White Female”. She also sang “The Bumper Of My SUV” which got tremendous applause and a long standing ovation. That was the first time I heard that song and I enjoyed it completely. It was a lot of fun and had great meaning. I felt proud to be part of that moment. There was another song that I’ll call “The Positive Song”. I’m not sure if that’s the name of it but it was just a fun song that had the audience rolling in laughter. Chely Wright put on a good show.

Now for Leann Rimes who came out in a white skirt and black long sleeved top with sexy black high heels. She shared with us that she’s never received so many compliments on her shoes in one evening. The crowd soaked it up. Leann Rimes was also very personable, very engaging, open and honest. She was as proud to be there celebrating as the crowd was, a celebration of being colorful human beings. Leann was passionate about expressing her support for equality, and the audience seemed to feel she was genuine. She started the night with “This Way” and followed with her new single “Give” which was a really good song. She kept going with “Strong”, “Something’s Gotta Give”, “Tic Toc”, and John Anderson’s “Swingin”. By this point the audience is on fire and Leann feels it. She was so interactive with the crowd that it felt like she was singing to you. She gave us a taste of Adele’s “Someone Like You” which was awesome. Leann finished the night up with “Blue”, “Life Goes On”, “How Do I Live”, “Nothing Better To Do”, and “What I Cannot Change”. You’ll enjoy some nice close up pictures thanks to Colleen who sat 3rd row and took pictures. Thanks Colleen! It was a great show. Leann was high energy and very sweet. I’m so glad I was able to see her in concert and would love to see her again.