UNIVERSITY PARK — On Thursday, Nov. 7, country artist Sam Barber took to the stage at Eisenhower Auditorium.
Barber began his singer/songwriter journey at just 16 when he wrote his first single “Straight and Narrow.” This is still his most listened to song today.
The artist grew to fame through his covers of country songs on TikTok and his short stint on American Idol in 2022. Barber did not make it past the auditions, but fans grew to love his voice and songs nonetheless.
The performance started at 6:30 p.m. with an opening act by Logan Halstead. Halstead is a singer/songwriter from West Virginia. His songs are primarily about Appalachia.
During the opener, Barber arranged free food and drink in a conference area for anyone attending the show. Pasta salad as well as pulled pork were served alongside two fully operational bars.
When it was his turn to take the stage, the 21-year-old started the show with songs from his new album “Restless Mind.” The album released on Friday, Nov. 1, with 28 songs, a few of which included a collaboration with Avery Anna, a singer who rose to fame via TikTok. Anna was also present at the show.
Towards the end of the concert, Barber pivoted to his older songs, such as “Straight and Narrow,” “Till I Return” and “Tear Us Apart.”
The last song of the night was “Dancing in the Sky.” Similar to Zach Bryan’s performance of Revival, Barber left the stage allowing a moment for the fans to think the show was over. He then rushed back on and played the last song of the night.
