George Strait drew a record-breaking crowd to College Station, Texas, for the largest ticketed concert in U.S. history. The previous record was set by the Grateful Dead, who performed before 107,019 people at Raceway Park in New Jersey in 1977.
On Saturday, June 15, 110,905 people filled Texas A&M University's football stadium to see the country music icon perform.
According to Setlist.fm, Strait opened with Rodney Crowell's "Stars on the Water." He performed an impressive 31 songs, including five hits during his encore. His set included memorable hits like "Check Yes or No" and "Here for a Good Time."
“We got some Aggies out there? Oh yeah! I’m ashamed to say this, but this is my first time to ever be in Kyle Field… damn,” he told the crowd. “Just invite me back, I’ll come!”
Texas natives Parker McCollum and Katie Offerman opened for Strait at Kyle Field, home of Texas A&M University. McCollum, who is soon to be a father, celebrated his birthday backstage with his wife Hallie Ray, family, crew, and friends.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott commented on the event, writing on social media, "Unbelievable concert by the King, George Strait. Largest packed house for a concert in America. Ever."
This milestone is another achievement in Strait's storied career. According to Billboard, he has the most No. 1 hits of any artist in any genre, is the only artist to chart a Top 10 hit every decade for 30 years, and holds the record for the most No. 1 albums, gold albums, and platinum albums in country music.
