Old Dominion
In 2017, I was crazy excited to see the name Old Dominion come across my inbox for a concert to promote, market, and put up on sale as Director of Marketing & Box Office at Kitchener’s Centre In The Square. As a massive country music fan, I knew the significance of Old Dominion's songwriting credits and could see where their trajectory was about to take them. Being part of their Meat and Candy North American tour was an unforgettable experience.
Old Dominion, known for their fusion of modern country with pop and rock influences, has become one of the most sought-after acts in country music. The band—comprised of Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Brad Tursi, Geoff Sprung, and Whit Sellers—has been a powerhouse in both performance and songwriting. Before rising to stardom as a band, they had already made a significant impact behind the scenes, writing hit songs for some of the biggest names in the industry. Their credits include tracks for Kenny Chesney (“Save It for a Rainy Day”), Blake Shelton (“Sangria”), The Band Perry (“Better Dig Two”), and Luke Bryan (“Goodbye Girl”), showcasing their unmatched versatility and storytelling ability.
Their debut album, Meat and Candy, was a game-changer, featuring hits like "Break Up with Him" and "Snapback." By the time I was involved with promoting their tour, the band’s reputation for electric live performances and relatable lyrics had cemented their place in the hearts of fans across North America.
In 2020, I had the privilege of photographing Old Dominion for Sony Music Canada and Sakamoto Agency at Kitchener’s Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. It was incredible to witness their growth firsthand. The same band that had played to 2,000 people during the earlier days of their career was now selling out arenas. Their ability to connect with audiences, both through their music and their on-stage charisma, was on full display that night. The energy was electric, and it was clear the band was only getting started.
Currently, Old Dominion continues to push boundaries in the country music genre. They recently released their latest album, Memory Lane, which features the title track—a nostalgic, heartfelt anthem that has resonated with fans and critics alike. The album explores themes of love, loss, and longing while maintaining the band’s signature catchy hooks and polished production.
In addition to their studio work, the band remains a dominant force on the touring circuit. Their 2025 schedule includes headlining shows across North America and appearances at major festivals like Stagecoach, CMA Fest, and Country Thunder. Their live performances are known for their seamless blend of hits, storytelling, and audience engagement, making them a favorite for both die-hard country fans and newcomers.
Beyond touring, the band members are also involved in various collaborative projects, continuing to write for other artists while refining their own craft. Their ability to juggle songwriting for others while maintaining their identity as Old Dominion speaks to their incredible work ethic and passion for the art of music.
From their humble beginnings as behind-the-scenes songwriters to their meteoric rise as one of country music’s biggest acts, Old Dominion’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Having had the chance to be part of their story through promoting their shows and capturing their performances is a career highlight I’ll always treasure. Their evolution from small venues to sold-out arenas is a testament to their talent, dedication, and the power of connecting with audiences through authentic and memorable music.
April 2017 Photos at Kitchener’s Centre In The Square:
2020 Photos at Kitchener Memorial Auditorium:
