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Review: Chase Rice in Noblesville, Indiana, with Dierks Bentley

By Clarissa Darling on June 16, 2024

Chase Rice, the rugged country music maverick, took to the stage last Friday night in Noblesville, Indiana, as the supporting act for Dierks Bentley, and what unfolded was nothing short of a honky-tonk reverie. Rice, with his trademark blend of country pop and rock, delivered a setlist that was both fiery and introspective, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

File Photo: Chase Rice and his band performs in Noblesville, Indiana, June 14, 2024. (Copyright 2024 Larry Philpot,/ Soundstage Photography.com)

Born on September 19, 1985, in Ormond Beach, Florida, and raised on a farm in Asheville, North Carolina, Chase Rice’s early life was steeped in the ethos of country living. A former linebacker for the University of North Carolina and NASCAR pit crew member for Hendrick Motorsports, Rice’s pivot to music was as dramatic as it was successful. He first gained attention as a contestant on ‘Survivor: Nicaragua,’ finishing as the runner-up in a season that would set the stage for his subsequent music career.

Rice’s musical journey is punctuated with hits like “Eyes on You” and “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen,” which have become anthems in country music circles. His work, including the platinum-certified “Ready Set Roll” and the heartfelt “Gonna Wanna Tonight,” resonates with fans for its authentic storytelling and catchy melodies.

The setlist for the evening was a testament to Rice’s dynamic range. Opening with “Bad Day,” he quickly set a tone of gritty realism tempered with hope. “Way Down” and “Fireside” followed, enveloping the crowd in a warm, melodic embrace that speaks to Rice’s Southern roots. “Jack Showed Up” brought a raucous energy, while “Rock n Roll” and “Lonely” showcased his ability to blend genres seamlessly. “Nancy” and “Eyes” were standout moments, with the latter being one of his chart-topping hits, eliciting a sing-along that felt like a communal heart-to-heart.

“Oklahoma” and “Bench Seat” offered a narrative-driven reprieve, highlighting Rice’s skill as a storyteller. The set closed with “Drinking Beer,” a song that encapsulates Rice’s down-to-earth persona and the simple pleasures that define country living.

Beyond his music, Rice has dabbled in the world of television, not only through his ‘Survivor’ stint but also with appearances on shows like ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ and ‘Late Night With Seth Meyers’. While his film credits are not extensive, his presence in the entertainment world is undeniable.