An eclectic mix

Uncle Kracker will headline GIE+EXPO this year on Oct. 18, kicking off three nights of music at Fourth Street Live! Adhering to a simple, yet timeless philosophy of just having fun, his chart-topping hits include “Follow Me,” “In A Little While,” and “Smile.” Country superstar Kenny Chesney tapped him for “When the Sun Goes Down,” which impressively spent five weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart.

The solo artist will be joined by opening act Runaway June, a vocal trio that’s bringing back the organic harmony that The Dixie Chicks made popular. Their debut single “Lipstick” catapulted into the Top 25 at Country radio, and the group was recognized on nearly every “One to Watch” list for 2017. The group is made up of lead singer and guitarist Naomi Cook, singer and mandolin picker Hannah Mulholland and singer/guitarist Jennifer Wayne, the granddaughter of Hollywood legend John Wayne. 

The concert series, sponsored by BOB-CAT Mowers, continues Thursday, Oct. 19, with opening act Alaska and Madi and headliners The Crashers.

“We jumped at the opportunity to have BOB-CAT sponsor the concert series and Dealer Resource Center at this year’s GIE+EXPO,” says Pat Cappucci, president and CEO of Schiller Grounds Care, parent company of BOB-CAT. “We can’t wait to showcase our brand and our new products to the best professionals in the green industry.”

Alaska and Madi have been singing together for over a decade – since they were preteens. After being members of Team Blake on season six of NBC’s “The Voice,” they moved their music to the next level. Their self-titled debut album, which features five original songs and five covers, was released in late 2014.

Back at GIE+EXPO for a third year by popular demand, The Crashers have established themselves both regionally and nationally as the band to see. They've performed all over the country, from the Super Bowl to rockin’ it out as the backing band for national artists like Luke Bryan and Kid Rock.

Closing out the concerts will be V-Groove on Friday, Oct. 20. Since 1998, V-Groove has established itself as one of the premiere bands in the Southeast/Midwest. Their energy-packed performances range from blues, soul and R&B to funk and rock. V-Groove has shared the stage with nationally renowned artists, including Buddy Guy, Slash (of Guns ‘n Roses), Tinsley Ellis, Delbert McClinton, Ian Moore, Kid Rock and Travis Tritt.

The series will take place on the Benz Vans stage. “Mercedes-Benz Vans is extremely excited about the partnership with GIE+EXPO to sponsor the concert stage starting in 2017!” says Chris Martin, assistant communications director for Mercedes-Benz Vans. “This venue provides great exposure for Mercedes-Benz Vans, introducing customers to our brand.”