What Do You Get When You Mix Bluegrass Soul, ’90s Parody and a Lot of Beer? A Dierks Bentley Show for the Books in South Florida.

June 7th, 2025

Saturday night at iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach was a full-fledged celebration of country music’s roots, its rising stars, and its more ridiculous alter egos. Headliner Dierks Bentley brought a dynamic, heartfelt, and wildly entertaining show that proved why he remains one of the genre’s most reliable and respected performers. From heartfelt harmonies to rowdy anthems, the night delivered something for every kind of country fan.

The Band Loula: A Southern Opening with Soul

Kicking things off was The Band Loula, a South Georgia duo that’s quickly becoming a name to know. With a sound steeped in bluegrass, country-folk, and rich Appalachian storytelling, their set struck a perfect balance between homespun charm and powerhouse vocals. Their performance of “Can’t Please ‘Em All” resonated with the crowd, touching on the tension and tradition of the Bible Belt in a way that felt both personal and universal.

They gave a soulful nod to their roots with an “Alabama Murder Medley” that not only showcased their tight harmonies but allowed their instrumental talents—on harmonica, tambourine, and violin—to shine. A rousing cover of “Folsom Prison Blues” and an interactive final song kept the energy high and the audience thoroughly engaged. By the end of their set, it was clear: this band may be opening shows now, but they’re destined for bigger stages.

Zach Top: Vintage Vibes with Modern Edge

Next up was Zach Top, a rising star who blends bluegrass authenticity with smooth country charisma. From the first notes of “Sounds Like the Radio,” it was clear Zach has an old soul and a knack for melody. He slowed the tempo just enough to bring a warm, reflective tone to the amphitheater, while still keeping the energy alive with tight musicianship and witty storytelling—including a charming anecdote about his first performance at age five.

With standout tracks like “I Never Lie” and a rowdy rendition of “Cold Beer & Country Music,” Zach Top introduced his band one by one, spotlighting the collaborative spirit behind his sound. His covers of Merle Haggard’s “Ramblin’ Fever” and “Amarillo by Morning” (a Terry Stafford classic) paid homage to the greats while cementing his place in the lineage.

Dierks Bentley: A Masterclass in Country Connection

When Dierks Bentley took the stage, the amphitheater erupted. He launched into “Well Well Whiskey,” a new track that instantly felt like a classic. “Everyone is happier in Florida,” he smiled, and the crowd roared in agreement. Dierks is more than a performer—he’s a connector. His deep catalog of hits like “5-1-5-0,” “Living,” “Somewhere on a Beach,” and “Riser” reminded everyone why he’s been a Nashville mainstay for two decades.

He made the night feel personal—giving nods to his wife, son (a budding hockey fan), and sister, and sharing memories of playing South Florida over the years. His performance of “I Hold On” was especially powerful, as he dedicated it to his late father, tucking in his shirt for the entire tour in his memory.

With genuine enthusiasm, he introduced each member of his stellar band, highlighting CMA Musician of the Year (2024) Charlie Worsham before joining him on “Callin’ Baton Rouge.” Dierks’s reverence for musical heritage came through clearly when he invited The Band Loula back onstage for a moving rendition of “Get Down on Your Knees and Pray,” nodding to his love for bluegrass and his excitement about discovering new talent. Later, Zach Top returned for a fiery group cover of “Freeborn Man” that became one of the night’s standout moments.

The set ended—seemingly—with fan favorite “Drunk on a Plane,” but Bentley wasn’t done.

Hot Country Knights: Pure Mayhem to Close the Night

In a hilarious turn, Dierks and his crew reemerged in full parody mode as Hot Country Knights, his ‘90s-inspired alter ego band complete with mullets, short shorts, and painfully sincere backstories. The over-the-top chaos brought a dose of comic relief that had the crowd in stitches. It was a reminder that while Bentley can sing with soul and sincerity, he’s never afraid to poke fun at the genre he loves.

From heartfelt hymns to honky-tonk hijinks, Saturday night’s show was a reminder of why live country music matters. Dierks Bentley didn’t just play his hits—he built a night that celebrated the past, present, and future of the genre. With emerging stars like The Band Loula and Zach Top lighting up the stage beside him, the band became a torch-passing, beer-raising Southern night to remember.