Experience the Unexpected: Bentley's Musical Odyssey Awaits

Unveiling the 'Off the Map' Tour: More Than Just a Title

Country music sensation Dierks Bentley is gearing up for his highly anticipated "Off the Map" summer tour, a 12-city spectacle that promises an extraordinary lineup of talent. Beyond being a recent song title, the tour's name signifies a deliberate choice to explore diverse musical landscapes. Bentley, known for his mainstream country hits, also possesses a deep-rooted passion for bluegrass, a genre he's championed throughout his career. This tour reflects that duality, bringing together both established legends and promising newcomers who share his artistic vision.

The Art of Curation: Handpicking Tour Companions

Bentley's meticulous selection of supporting acts is a testament to his dedication to showcasing exceptional talent. He consciously chooses artists he genuinely admires and enjoys watching, transforming his tour into a personal musical journey. This summer's lineup includes the venerable Country Hall of Famer Ricky Skaggs and his band Kentucky Thunder, providing direct support for almost every date. This collaboration highlights Bentley's respect for his musical predecessors and his commitment to offering audiences a rich and varied experience.

A Deep Dive into Bluegrass Roots and Playful Alter Egos

Bentley's profound connection to bluegrass is well-documented. His 2010 album, "Up on the Ridge," was a pure bluegrass offering, and his concerts often feature string-band interludes. Interestingly, Skaggs, a former mainstream country star who transitioned to bluegrass, is now re-embracing some of his country roots live, creating a fascinating dynamic. Adding another layer of entertainment, Bentley and his band often transform into the "Hot Country Knights," a '90s country tribute act that provides a humorous yet musically sharp contrast to his more serious bluegrass endeavors.

Spotlighting Emerging Voices and Esteemed Collaborators

The tour also introduces audiences to captivating emerging artists. Kaitlin Butts will grace the stage for three nights, while Cole Goodwin, Owen Riegling, and Mountain Grass Unit will open other shows. Bentley expresses immense admiration for these rising stars, highlighting their unique contributions to the country and bluegrass scenes. He also reflects on past collaborations with artists like Kacey Musgraves and Maren Morris, noting his ability to identify talent before they achieve widespread fame.

The Enduring Appeal of Live Music in a Digital Age

Bentley views live performances as a vital escape in a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions and artificial intelligence. He believes a concert offers a precious opportunity for audiences to momentarily detach from their everyday concerns and immerse themselves in the transformative power of music. He aims for his shows to be a rejuvenating experience, providing a "vacation from oneself," much like the movie "What About Bob?"

The Joy of Performance: From Bluegrass Jams to 'Hot Country Knights' Antics

Bentley cherishes every moment on stage with his band. He particularly enjoys the bluegrass segments, where guitarist Ben Helson's virtuosity shines. However, his favorite part remains the "Hot Country Knights" performance, which now closes every show. What started as an incognito opening act has evolved into a fully professional, high-energy medley that allows the band to embrace playful absurdity and connect with the audience on a different level. Bentley even speculates about recruiting Ricky Skaggs and Kaitlin Butts to join the Knights for some lighthearted stage antics.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Musical Exploration

Bentley consistently seeks out opportunities to uplift both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming artists. His latest album, for instance, features collaborations with John Anderson and Stephen Wilson Jr., demonstrating his commitment to bridging generational gaps in music. He praises Wilson Jr.'s unique songwriting style, citing his song "Gary" as an example of creativity that artificial intelligence could never replicate. Bentley sees himself as fortunate to have an instinct for discovering promising talent, fostering a vibrant and evolving musical landscape.

An Eclectic Lineup for an Unforgettable Summer

The "Off the Map" tour boasts a diverse array of supporting acts across its dates:

Rogers, AR; Kansas City, MO: Featuring Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Owen Riegling

Bonner, MT; Airway Heights, WA; Colorado Springs, CO; Wilmington, NC; Charleston, SC; St. Augustine, FL: Featuring Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Cole Goodwin, Mountain Grass Unit

Gilford, NH; Bridgeport, CT; Canandaigua, NY: Featuring Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Kaitlin Butts