Joy of My life

Photo: Megan Coffey

Cincinnati never lets weather stop a good time. Despite a thunderstorms and a delay, Chris Stapleton fans at Paycor Stadium on Saturday night never thought “You Should Probably Leave,” one of the singer/songwriter’s classics.

Lainey Wilson’s set was moved up to 6:45 p.m., and she took the stage in her signature Wrangler jeans, white tank top, and cowboy hat. She energized the crowd with fan favorites including “Heart Like a Truck,” “Watermelon Moonshine,” and “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.”

The most memorable moment of Wilson;s set came when she stepped off the stage to perform “4x4xU” with a local 10-year-old fan, creating an emotional moment that had the entire stadium cheering.

As severe weather approached, Paycor Stadium was evacuated. Once the storms passed and the skies cleared, after lengthy delay, a visibly emotional Stapleton took the stage just after 10 p.m. He thanked the crowd for sticking it out.

“This place does not look like anyone left, and I love you all for it,” Stapleton said to the fans. “You guys are what keeps me going!”

Stapleton opened with “Bad as I Used to Be” before delivering a set packed with hits, including “Fire Away,” “White Horse,” “Millionaire,'“ and “Parachute.” He also performed “I Think I’m in Love With You” alongside his wife, Morgane Stapleton, with signature harmonies that are the heart of his live shows.

He closed the unforgettable night just after midnight with two of his biggest songs, “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Outlaw State of Mind,” rewarding the diehard fans who weathered the storm to see him perform that night.

– Megan Coffey