Rascal Flatts - They just do not do it for me. I can't get past the lead singer. To me, they're like the Foreigner of country - good chops but just no soul at all.

Darius Rucker - An up-and-comer in country, which is weird since he already ruled the world for awhile in rock. I think he's going to have a long career in country if he wants it, but for my money, he'll never write a better song than "Let Her Cry". He nailed that one last week.

Jonas Brothers - I don't like their brand of rock, but at least they play their own stuff. They are infectious and the kids love them. If someone teaches them real rock chords and convinces them play through a Stratocaster, their pop career can be much longer.

Trace Adkins - I didn't even want to be there that night, but I was, and what a pleasant surprise! This cat can REALLY sing and he is as effortless as anyone I can think of. The sound just drips out of his mouth. I am now a fan of this guy and HIGHLY recommend you catch his act.

Keith Urban - Wow, was he great! I confess I don't follow country all that much, and I know this guy has been around, but I just never hooked up with him. My bad! His show was absolutely on-point. Great voice, catchy songs and he's an excellent guitarist. But none of that compared to his level of showmanship. Top-notch, and he's another you need to catch live if you can.

Taylor Swift- Genius. This young lady is a true talent. She knows how to write a song. She owns the stage. She's only 19 but there is no limit to how high she can go. Get ready, world. She's taking over.

ZZ Top - Best show I've ever seen them put on. Billy Gibbons was en fuego. My respect for his talent went WAY up. Both his and Dusty Hill's vocals have never sounded better, either. It's amazing what clean living will do for you! Their stage presence is just so great. Billy G and dusty sway and tap their feet in time with each other and do it with so little effort but oh so much cool. That little ol' band from Texas is on the top of their game.

I missed a few acts I wanted to see - Brad Paisley, Clay Walker - but it was a good run for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

RodeoSchro said:

Just got tickets for them for one of my nieces (she requested them).