By: Dr. Steve Bettner
If you’re looking for something fun to do this summer — whether it’s date night, a family outing, or a full-on road trip with friends — here’s an idea you won’t regret: check out Old Dominion on their “How Good Is That” World Tour.
Now, maybe you’re thinking, Old Dominion? Not ringing a bell. But here’s the twist — you probably do know them. Start singing “Hotel Key,” “One Man Band,” “On a Boat That Day”, or “Snapback,” and suddenly it clicks. They’re that band whose songs are on every summer playlist, whose lyrics you know by heart even if you never learned their name. In other words, Old Dominion is probably the least-known famous band out there — and one of the most fun to see live.
Why See Them Live? Here’s the Magic.
Old Dominion doesn’t just perform — they connect. Their concerts are more than music; they’re a party. Tailgating with the “Odies” (their ultra-loyal, always-up-for-a-good-time fanbase) is half the experience. Think laughter, good vibes, and impromptu singalongs before the show even starts.
Once the music kicks off, the energy is off the charts. The band’s known for being humble, real, and totally in sync with the crowd. They take audience requests mid-show. They’ll try out brand-new songs on stage. They mess around with impromptu covers and jam sessions. And this year? They’ve taken it up a notch.
They brought the couch — yep, the one from their album cover — on stage, and they’re inviting a few lucky fans to sit on it during the show. My two teenage daughters and I had the chance to watch the concert from that couch earlier this year, and let me tell you — it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime, “we’ll talk about this forever” kind of moments.
Meet the Odies
Old Dominion fans, lovingly called Odies, are a community. They’re the kind of people who’ll hand you a drink in the parking lot, make room in the crowd, and remember your name next time. You’ll spot familiar faces at shows across the country — even Hawaii, a nod to one of the band’s most requested songs. The vibe is always welcoming, always a good time.
A Band with Heart — and Hardware
Old Dominion isn’t just a great live act — they’ve earned their place in country music history. With a perfect mix of clever lyrics, catchy melodies, and authentic storytelling, they’ve scooped up 8 consecutive CMA Vocal Group of the Year awards (and counting). They’ve won multiple ACM Awards, including Song of the Year and Group of the Year. And their list of chart-toppers just keeps growing.
The band got its start in Nashville, where a group of talented songwriters — Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Whit Sellers, Geoff Sprung, and Brad Tursi — came together to make their own kind of music. And it stuck. Since then, they’ve gone from writing for stars like Kenny Chesney and Blake Shelton to being the stars themselves.
Live Like José
Their song “Make It Sweet” reminds us not to wait for the perfect moment — just get out there and make some memories. Or, in the words of their hit “Life Is Short (Live Like José),” lean into life, love hard, and have fun. That’s exactly what an Old Dominion concert is all about. And honestly? That’s what this summer should be about too.
So grab your crew — family, friends, or just that one person who gets you — and find a stop on the “How Good Is That” tour near you. You might show up for the music, but you’ll leave with something way better: a memory that sticks.
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