On a picture-perfect late September evening in Ann Arbor, over 100,000 fans gathered at Michigan Stadium for a sold-out concert by Zach Bryan, marking the venue's first-ever concert and potentially breaking records for the highest attended ticketed concert in U.S. history. While final attendance figures were not confirmed at the end of the show, ticket sales reportedly exceeded 112,000, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
The 29-year-old country music sensation from Oklahoma delivered a spirited, two-and-a-half-hour headlining set that captivated the massive audience. The concert featured special guest appearances from John Mayer and the Michigan-based duo The War and Treaty. "Thank you so much for the best night of my life!" Bryan exclaimed during his emotionally charged performance of "East Side of Sorrow."
Adding to the atmosphere, Bryan donned a maize and blue University of Michigan football jersey, proudly displaying his nameplate. Accompanied by a large band of at least 16 musicians, including fiddle and horn players, his songs transformed into fervent sing-alongs that rivaled the energy of any Saturday football game.
As the evening progressed, Bryan took a moment to reflect on his remarkable journey, which saw him rise from performing in 1,000-capacity clubs to selling out the iconic Big House. "I can't believe we're here," he said before diving into his hit song "Starved." The previous record holder for the largest concert attendance in the U.S. was George Strait's concert at Texas A&M, which attracted 110,905 fans to Kyle Field.
The inaugural concert at the 99-year-old Michigan Stadium was not without its challenges, including crowded concourses and long lines for food, bathrooms, merchandise, and traffic. However, the vibe among the fans was overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees sported cowboy boots, 10-gallon hats, and fashionable tiered mini-dresses, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
As the concert kicked off around 9:20 p.m., the crowd erupted in cheers, performing the wave while waiting for Bryan to take the stage. He entered to the familiar sounds of "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers, a song that has become an anthem during University of Michigan football games. The production setup featured a stage in-the-round, allowing for an immersive experience with 5,700 seats on the floor and massive video screens providing excellent views from all angles.
During his set, Bryan humorously stumbled when he introduced a bandmate from Ohio, drawing immediate boos and playful anti-Ohio chants from the crowd. "Whoops," he laughed, acknowledging the friendly rivalry. Later, he engaged the audience with football chants, shouting "Go Birds!" after performing "28," which was met with enthusiastic responses, including chants of "Ja-red Goff!"
John Mayer, a headliner in his own right, opened the concert with a laid-back set that highlighted his bluesy guitar skills. "Good evening, Ann Arbor! It's good to see y'all. I'm Zach's friend John," he said, captivating the audience with hits from his album "Sob Rock" and closing with the fan-favorite "Gravity." Mayer joined Bryan on stage for a rendition of the Grateful Dead's "Friend of the Devil" and their duet "Better Days," showcasing their musical chemistry.
The evening also featured performances by Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentleman, who energized the crowd with their lively set. Bingham humorously noted, "Let's get this party started," as he and his bandmates shared a celebratory moment on stage. The opener, Joshua Slone, took the stage just before 6 p.m. and candidly admitted to feeling nervous, expressing, "I could probably throw up right now."
Prior to Mayer's set, a flyover occurred above the stadium during the singing of the National Anthem, adding to the grandeur of the event. With temperatures in the lower 70s, the early fall evening provided ideal conditions for the concert, making it a memorable night for all.
Saturday's concert not only marked a historic moment for Zach Bryan but also opened a new chapter for Michigan Stadium as it welcomes touring acts. Stadium officials announced that the Big House is now officially open for business, paving the way for more exciting events in the future.
For fans and concertgoers alike, the evening was a testament to the power of music, community, and shared experiences within the storied walls of Michigan Stadium.
