Well cowboys and cowgirls, we have one more glorious day in the desert for the 2012 Stagecoach Country Music Festival, with Brad Paisley and Sheryl Crow on tap for tonight. But, if you're looking to remember what happened on Saturday, here are some of the highlights.
First, check out our photo galleries shot by yours truly and awesome photographer Rodrigo Pena, who has been shooting Stagecoach since the first one.
Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Steve Martin, Chris Isaak, The Mavericks |
Old Man Markley, J.D. Crowe and the New South, Sunny Sweeney and fans enjoy the fest
Actor who can really play: Steve Martin
Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers had the Mustang Stage overflowing with fans on Saturday evening. It was tough to hear if you weren't up front, but Martin cracked jokes during technical difficulties early in the set. It wasn't a comedy routine, though--the music is stellar.
Best set most fans missed: The Mavericks
Forget Coachella--The Mavericks staged a reunion at Stagecoach, but it was while Blake Shelton was on stage so most of the crowd missed it. However, those who were in attendance were treated to a special night of music and new tunes from the alt-country band. We're also happy to see Raul Malo look so happy.
Best non-traditional instrument: Old Man Markley
Old Man Markley wins first, second and third place in this category between an Autoharp, a washboard, and our personal favorite--a wash tub upright bass covered in punk rock band stickers.
Best fake-out: Blake Shelton
When Blake Shelton started talking about fellow coach on "The Voice" Cee Lo Green and covered Green's "Forget You," we thought for sure Cee Lo, his fluffy white cat or at least a hologram would show up. We were wrong.
Sweet farewell: J.D. Crowe and the New South
Crowe is hanging up music after his tour, which kicked off Saturday at Stagecoach.
Oddest set: J.D. Souther
Stagecoach got jazzy when the singer/songwriter brought out a piano, an upright bass and had a combo that was more fitting for New Orleans than Indio this weekend. Have you ever heard a jazzy version of Souther's song (and Eagles' hit) "Heartache Tonight"? You did if you caught this set.
Best duet: Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton, "Home"
Move over, Tim and Faith, it's all about Blake and Miranda when it comes to country power couples.
Hottest set: Chris Isaak
This was hot for a few reasons--Isaak and his band worked up a sweat in their wool suits with a fantastic performance. The ladies in the audience were swooning over the ever-charming Isaak. Finally, he set the piano on fire for a cover of "Great Balls of Fire." That was the most smoke we've seen on stage since Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg at Coachella the last two Sundays.
