Deana Carter a hit at Canyon Lake Lodge concert

BY Aprile McKinnon

Performing to a sold-out crowd, Deana Carter provided entertainment that was loved by all who were fortunate enough to have purchased a ticket to the penultimate concert of the Concerts at the Lodge Series Saturday.

As the concert began, Deana shared that the band had just flown in from Hawaii after playing a benefit concert for the victims of the Maui fire. After kicking off her shoes, she stated the name of her tour was “Barefoot Again,” which brought the crowd to laughter.

“The Deanna Carter concert was a family affair,” Doug Schultz, the Concerts at the Lodge producer, emcee and talent buyer said. “The three-piece acoustic band consisted of Deana, her husband Jim McPhair and her brother Jeff Carter all on guitar. Deana’s show was full of stories and jokes about the history of her songs, artists she has worked with, memories from her concerts, life on the road, family, and working with her husband and brother.”

Opening act David Maldonado wows the audience with his legendary guitar playing and strong vocals. His entertaining performance included quite a variety of genres.

The crowd sang along throughout the concert when Deana turned the microphone to the audience, encouraging everybody to sing. With six CMA awards, three ACM awards,  three Grammys and the 1997 CMA Single of the Year Award, she was a definite crowd pleaser Saturday night.

Deana, who has a five-time Platinum album and 14 hit singles, was down to earth and a delight to listen to.

Deana’s opening act by David Maldonado engaged the audience with his dynamic guitar playing and cool sound. His Spanish guitar and banjo playing was a pure delight.

The legendary guitarist started playing music at the age of eight. Classically trained, he demonstrated his gift that is unique and special. He performed a country music set under the name Vaquero. David had the audience in his hands as he performed cover songs that everyone knew and loved.

David also shared one of his originals with the audience leaving everyone wanting more. The Lodge was filled with legends who entertained the audience in legendary ways.

After the concert, friends, from left, Faro Trupiano, David Thompson, Diane Thielen, Tammy Thompson, Lori Blanchard, Todd Stover, and Julia Trupuano gathered to gush about the performances. Photos by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Saturday night’s concert was the 33rd of the Concerts at the Lodge Series.

“Another fabulous concert at the lodge. Deanna Carter was wonderful,” attendee Todd Stover said. “We are so blessed to have this venue in our community. Thanks Doug Schultz for another amazing artist.”

The final concert of the year on Nov. 4 will be the legendary Texas Roadhouse rock and blues band The Fabulous Thunderbirds. With 26 recorded albums and with past tours with Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stones, they are sure to be a hit. Tickets are available on the POA website.