Garth Brooks Opening Night Setlist
The road back to the nineties is calling, and Garth Brooks is answering with a full-throttle throwback. Recently, the legendary artist opened his Blame It All On My Roots tour in Indianapolis, pulling fans right back to the golden age of country music at the historic Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
This isn’t just a concert; it’s a meticulously recreated journey. The tour pays homage to Brooks’ massive 1996-1998 world tour, faithfully replicating the stage design, lighting rigs, and even the iconic spinning drum pod that defined those legendary performances. It’s a full sensory trip, designed to transport attendees directly into the era that shaped modern country music.
Opening night proved that the nostalgia was palpable. Brooks kept the setlist firmly rooted in the past, playing only hits from before 1997. The atmosphere was instantly steeped in history, setting the stage for an evening that felt less like a show and more like a time machine.
The magic extended beyond the music. As the performance began, the spectacle unfolded with attention to detail. A grand piano descended from the floor, introduced by pianist Dave Gant playing the opening strains of “The Old Stuff.” Brooks then rose through the instrument, launching into a heartfelt rendition of the 1995 hit “Fresh Horses,” recalling the song’s opening lines: “Whoa, I said a little prayer tonight/’fore I came on stage/as I came walking past the drivers and the locals on the union wage.”
The sound was perfectly balanced by a talented ensemble of musicians who have been integral to Brooks’ career. Alongside Dave Gant, the band included seasoned players like drummer Mike Palmer, fiddle player Jimmy Mattingly, and pedal steel guitarist Bruce Bouton and bassist Mark Greenwood, all contributing to the authentic, high-energy sound of the era.
While the stage décor and musical choices were steeped in history, Brooks offered a subtle shift in presentation. For this opening night, he opted for a simple black shirt, opting out of the usual colorful western wear, underscoring the timeless nature of his artistry over fleeting fashion.
The journey continues. Brooks is currently making stops across the country, with three more shows lined up in Indianapolis before heading to Denver’s Ball Arenas, Rosemont, Illinois’s Allstate Arena, and Washington, D.C.’s Capital One Arena. Fans can secure tickets for these dates, priced at $154.
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