GALLERY: Josh Turner Wows in First-Ever Fayetteville Concert
Despite a career that has taken him all over the world, Josh Turner somehow had never managed to visit Fayetteville. He’s done shows in Robeson County, and at Fort Liberty, but never actually here in Fayetteville.
Saturday night, Turner righted that wrong, as he celebrated the 20th anniversary of “Long Black Train” at the Crown Theatre in Fayetteville.
Turner sang his biggest hits including “Your Man,” “Would You Go With Me,” and “Firecracker.” Fans swayed and twirled in the aisles during “Why Don’t We Just Dance.” Some of Turner’s bandmates decided they weren’t going to miss out on the fun and gave their best shot at a short-lived kickline.
The “Deep South” singer switched between high-energy hits like “Time is Love” to well-known worship songs, “Me and God” and “I Saw the Light.”
Turner saved the best for last and closed his show with “Long Black Train.” The crowd sang along loudly, nearly drowning out Turner’s smooth, deep voice. Turner stepped away from the mic and took in the sight before him, seeming equally appreciative and impressed.
A special guest took the stage prior to Turner, one who is personally close to the Grand Ole Opry singer. Missouri native, Jared Harder, got the night started by playing a mix of originals and covers. Harder works on the road for Josh Turner, usually behind the scenes. He enjoyed being on stage and sharing his work with Fayetteville’s country music fans.
Turner reminded fans to consider buying from his merchandise table outside of the show which included t-shirts, bags, and vinyl records. One item, a black shirt with an ACU camo American flag on the back, helps raise money to supply military members with their own Bibles.
He also founded the “Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts” in 2008. This scholarship was created to give music students a better chance at having more opportunities, especially those from small rural areas, like him. More information about this scholarship and ways to donate can be found here.
Editor’s note: Guest writer Cate Russ contributed to this story.
