Article and Photos by: Wendy Podmenik Woodell
NORFOLK, VA- Live music is back!! Venues in Hampton Roads are announcing schedules that are filling quickly, and music lovers are ready to return to live shows. Daughtry took the stage with openers Tremonti and Lyell as part of a full schedule at the NorVa leading into this spring.
Tremonti is touring in support of recent album, Marching in Time. Formerly of Creed, vocalist / lead guitarist Mark Tremonti decided in 2011 to start a personal project that would align with his desire to return to his metal interests. Not only does he also contribute to Alter Bridge, he is the force behind Tremonti- and this illustrates that with three bands under his belt, Mark Tremonti overflows with creativity. While Tremonti’s shows over the years have had a consistent appearance, (lighting, clothes, set)- Mark Tremonti and band always provide a solid level of musicianship and a seriousness in their delivery.
Daughtry is highlighting his 6th studio album and his setlist is heavy with his newest material. The “Dearly Beloved” tour originally kicked off in 2021, but due to an unfortunate family tragedy, the tour was canceled. Touring has now begun again with Norfolk, VA being the 4th date on the schedule. Engulfed within dramatic lighting and fog, Chris Daughtry and band roll through their inventory of radio hits and powerful rock ballads. Rising to fame as a finalist from American Idol, Daughtry capitalized on his momentum and name recognition to propel himself forward in his career.
With an audience anxious to return to the normality of live music and excited to see him, Daughtry propelled the show forward with his high energy. Taking a pause mid-set, he turned down the lights and encouraged the attendees to pull out their cell phones to beautifully light up the venue as he did acoustic performances of “Home” and “A Cry for Help”. Finishing out the evening with an encore containing “Over You” and “Asylum”, Daughtry proves that talent is timeless and his music feeds our souls.