From the beginning of Parker McCollum's career, touring has been ingrained in what he does — down to his very first single, 2013's "Highway," which was inspired by life on the road.
"Lord have mercy on a young man's soul/ There ain't nobody gonna love me livin' on this road," he sings in the first verse. "Gotta keep on moving/ Keep on traveling strong."
Luckily for McCollum, the lonesome tale of "Highway" hasn't become his touring life. Not only has the Texas-born country star found a lifelong partner to join him on the road — his wife, Hallie Ray Light — but he's continued to play bigger and bigger venues. And 2023 has marked his most remarkable touring year so far.
McCollum has headlined arenas and amphitheaters around the United States, played stadiums as direct support for Morgan Wallen, and most recently sold out Colorado's iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Aug. 10.
"Being out on the road this year has been one of the most hectic, challenging and rewarding years of touring I've ever done," the singer tells GRAMMY.com. "My album Never Enough is some of the best work of my career so far, and seeing fans respond to those songs is really special."
WIth three country radio No. 1s in a row — 2020's "Pretty Heart," 2021's "To Be Loved By You" and 2022's "Handle On You" — and his latest single, "Burn It Down," currently climbing, McCollum's unique brand of soulful, rock-influenced country music is clearly resonating. But in his eyes, the fans are the "driving force."
"Night after night they keep blowing me away with their support," McCollum adds. "Playing some of these massive venues with a sea of people singing the songs you worked your butt off on — man, that feeling really can't be put into words."
And McCollum isn't slowing down anytime soon. He has dates plotted all the way through the end of the year, closing out 2023 with a fitting return to Texas for New Year's Eve.
As McCollum continues his massive year, he shared photos and memories from some of his favorite shows. Take a look at the behind-the-scenes pics and hear from the singer/songwriter on why these shows were so special.
All photos by Chris Kleinmeier.
Feb. 28, Houston, Texas: Playing RodeoHouston has been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I was blown away being asked to perform in 2022, and having a sold-out crowd that night filled with family and friends was everything I always dreamed it would be. Then, being asked to come back this year for RodeoHouston opening day to kick off the season — man, life really does feel like a movie sometimes.
April 16, New Mexico: Shooting the music video for my current single, "Burn It Down," was a wild experience. Probably my favorite video I've done so far! We decided to head out to the New Mexico desert and blow some stuff up! I even set my feet on fire for this one. The whole day was awesome — my band being there with me, and Hillary Lindsey (background vocals and one of my co-writers) being on set brought it all together.
April 30, Indio, California: My first time playing Stagecoach Festival in Indio, CA earlier this year. It was a hot one that day, but the crowd showed up and was with me from start to finish!
May 12, Austin, Texas: This was a really special day. I was back home in Texas for the release of my album, Never Enough, and stopped by Waterloo Records in Austin for an in-store event with fans. Even got to play a few of my favorites from the record. Thanks for bein' there y'all!
June 3, Wilmington, North Carolina: Being lucky enough to travel the country and meet all the amazing folks who continue to support me and my music is incredible. I wouldn't be able to do this without them, and seeing your faces each night, singing back every word, is something special. Thank y'all! This was a hell of a show.
June 10, Dallas, Texas: Having the opportunity to get on stage night after night doing what I love is something I'll never take for granted. Especially those nights when you're playing a show alongside a country music hero of mine, Gary Allan — makes it even better when it's in Dallas!
June 23, Chicago, Illinois: The most beautiful woman in the world right here! My wife has been supporting me, pushing me and making me the man I've always wanted to be since the day we met. I love you Hallie Ray and thank you for bein' on this crazy ride with me.
July 6, St. Louis, Missouri: As a performer I'm always looking to keep pushing myself and growing. When I get to join tours with incredible artists like Morgan Wallen at this show in St. Louis, I learn so much about what makes them tick and watching them do their thing up there. I'm inspired by just how much they give and see how much that means to the fans.
Aug. 10, Morrison, Colorado: Selling out at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an incredible feeling. The venue itself is so iconic and makes for a really cool and unique concert experience for both the fans and the performers. Even had a legend on-stage with me that night! Thanks for coming out. Peyton Manning!
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