Fair organizers thinkin’ smart in landing Dierks Bentley

By MARGARET HOBBS Staff Reporter for the Southern

Dierks Bentley

Growing up in a non-musical family, Dierks Bentley got his country music education on his own, listening to records. The popular artist is being hailed by critics and fans alike for bringing new energy to country music.

He will be bringing that new energy to Warren County in his performance at the fair this Monday at 7 p.m. It’s a sure bet the grandstand will be packed with fans of all ages, as his appeal is widespread.

Bentley’s first single “What Was I Thinkin'” spent weeks at the No. 1 spot on Music Row’s Country Breakout singles chart. His latest single “My Last Name” is working its way up the Hot Country Singles chart. The award-winning artist is nominated for the CMA Horizon Award Artist of the Year.

Fair representative Carol Grandey said organizers are pleased to bring another top-flight singer to Warren County after Trace Adkins was a rousing success last year.

“We are very tickled to have Dierks this year,” said Grandey. “We booked him early and are proud that his career is doing so well. He is very well liked and we are expecting to have a good crowd at the grandstand. Many people are asking me if his dog, Jake, is coming. I don’t know, but he goes everywhere with him.”