When Kentucky rockers Black Stone Cherry hit the stage at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, they didn’t just bring the noise—they brought the heart, passion, and a genuine connection with their fans that few bands can match. From the moment they opened with “Me and Mary Jane“, the crowd was instantly fired up. And with the added excitement of pyrotechnics, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be your average night at a rock concert.
The band’s stage production was impressive yet intimate, cleverly designed to make a massive venue like the Hydro feel more like a close-knit rock club. The multi-level setup, complete with a ramp and various platforms, allowed fans to see each band member in action, from the high-flying guitar solos to the thunderous drum beats. The rustic, rock ‘n’ roll vibe, created by large rigs on stage, added a perfect touch to the atmosphere, making the vast arena feel more personal.
Lead vocalist Chris Robertson spoke warmly of Glasgow, acknowledging the band’s long history with the city, and it was clear from the crowd’s reception that the feeling was mutual. At one point, he declared, “If there’s one city to play in, it’s Glasgow.” And the city responded with the kind of electric energy that only Glasgow can muster.
Mike Rodway
Audience interaction was a highlight of the evening. Chris expertly got the crowd to repeat “hey” during “Have You Seen The Blind Man”, creating a sense of unity that felt more like a jam session in a rehearsal room than a massive concert. And it wasn’t just Chris bringing the energy—each member of Black Stone Cherry contributed to the high-octane performance, from John Fred Young’s epic drum solo to Ben Wells and Steve Jewell tearing it up across the stage, mirroring each other’s movements and feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm.
📸Mike Rodway
The band’s connection with their fans was palpable. Ben Wells took a moment to share how much the Glasgow crowd meant to them, reminiscing about their early days playing smaller venues like The Cathouse and The Garage. “Whatever it took for you to be here in this room, we appreciate the shit out of every single one of you,” he said, and the crowd couldn’t have agreed more.
Songs like “Like I Roll” were a blast, full of upbeat energy and catchy hooks, while “Stay” was a rare treat, with the band playing it in full for the first time in ages. But it was the emotional moments that truly set this concert apart. Chris dedicated “Dance with My Father”—a deeply personal song he wrote in memory of his father—to the crowd, asking them to light up the room in memory of their own loved ones. The moment was beautifully poignant, as fans raised their phones in tribute, creating a sea of lights that filled the arena with a shared sense of connection and emotion.
📸Mike Rodway
Then there was their cover of “American Horse” by The Cult—an absolute highlight. The band nailed it, showing their ability to not only pay homage to their influences but also to inject their own unique style into the mix. It was a moment that left the audience buzzing, and Chris even jokingly asked, “How are we going to top that?”
The night wrapped up with an encore that was both inspiring and emotional. Chris spoke to the crowd about the challenges everyone has faced since 2020 and reminded them that “Peace Is Free.” He then walked into the crowd as he sang the final notes, closing the night on a hopeful, soul-stirring note that left everyone feeling uplifted and connected.
In a world where concerts can often feel like just another show, Black Stone Cherry proved that live music is about much more than just the music. It’s about the energy, the emotion, and the unspoken bond between the band and the crowd. Glasgow was treated to a night that felt not just like a performance, but an experience—one that will stick with fans long after the lights have gone down.
