The Crown Complex hosts a variety of events and entertainers from across the globe throughout the year. Its repertoire includes things like conventions, plays, concerts and ice hockey games. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy during any month. October is no exception this year. On Oct. 6, Thomas Rhett will perform as part of his 2017 Home Team Tour. This performance will be followed by REO Speedwagon on Oct. 7.

Rhett’s career in the music business started in 2009 in Nashville, Tennessee, when he was first hired to write songs. In 2013, he broke onto the scene with his first No. 1 hit “It Goes Like This.” Since then he has released eight chart-topping singles and has taken his unique sound and huge concert performances across the country and Europe. He is currently one of the most popular up-and-coming music stars in the business. The past few years, he has been adjusting to this new lifestyle. As he becomes more comfortable on the stage, the infectious energy of his performances grows.

Rhett’s music is known for an addictive mixture of country, pop hooks, rhythm and blues grooves, rock and soul. It is this sound that earned him numerous awards such as the title ACM Male Vocalist of the year and Grammy nominations. Because he is influenced by so many different sounds, his music is ever-evolving. A performance with Rhett is always innovative, engaging and exciting. Coming to a live performance is a way to experience the excitement and growth with him in a way that an album could never fully capture.

REO Speedwagon will take the stage at the Crown Coliseum Oct. 7 at 7:30 p.m. The group was first formed in the late 1960s in Champaign, Illinois, where audiences helped to build and define the Midwestern rock movement.

Like many bands, the group started playing small local gigs. Now, after decades of passion and hard work, they have cemented themselves as rock legends, having sold more than 40 million records with 13 Top 40 hits. Their most successful album, “High Infidelity” spent 15 weeks at No. 1 and is nearly 10-times platinum. In the 1990s, the group redefined touring by introducing the co-headline tour concept and touring with Fleetwood Mac and
Pat Benatar.

Kevin Cronin, the man behind the lyrics, will be joined onstage by Bruce Hall on bass, Neal Doughty on the keyboard, Dave Amato on lead guitar and Bryan Hitt on the drums.

The members of REO Speedwagon maintain their ability to fill large stadiums because their shows are incredible. The music is timeless, and they dominate the stage with energy and personality. Since the beginning, they have tirelessly demonstrated their talent, passion and creativity. This concert is an opportunity to have fun and see art 50 years in the making.

The Crown Coliseum is located at 1960 Coliseum Dr. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.crowncomplexnc.com/events. The Crown Complex has exciting events all year long.

Photo caption: Rhett’s career in the music business started in 2009 in Nashville, Tennessee. Photo credit: www.crowncomplexnc.com