Billy Gilman - Country Music's Ultimate Showman
Photo: Dan Crowther Photography
Billy Gilman made his third appearance in the 'Close Up' series on Sunday, December 1, 2024 to a full and enthusiastic crowd at the Wood Theater in Glens Falls, NY. Best known as the child superstar that gave us 'One Voice' and 'There's A Hero', Gilman enjoyed a resurgence in his career as a finalist on NBC's 'The Voice', and more recently hit the Bluegrass charts with critically acclaimed recordings - including a duet with Bluegrass Queen, Rhonda Vincent.
Gilman is the consummate performer, an artist that can do it all! I've often said he should have his own residency in Las Vegas, as he reminds me of the showbiz legends that command a stage for fans of any age, sing any genre of music, and instantly connect with people and leave them in awe (and wanting more). Gilman has the 'It' factor, way beyond Country Music, that could make him one of those entertainment icons that could be performing in showrooms for decades- like Donny and Marie Osmond, Wayne Newton, Kenny Rogers or Michael Buble.
The lively crooner started his visit in Glens Falls by surprising attendees of the Center For Disability Services 'Festival of Trees' fundraiser. The delighted fans cheered as Gilman joined them on the dance floor for a few fun line dances and shook the hands of anyone that approached him - many of which already had tickets to see his appearance in the "Close Up" series at the Wood Theater the next day.
After the interactive "Live On Stage" interview - a staple of our 'Close Up' shows - Gilman took the crowd on an incredible journey of music from holiday favorites delivered in pure vocal perfection, to childhood hits updated to suit his adult voice and powerful performances that made him an international hit on NBC's 'The Voice'. There is a reason Gilman has made three appearances in our 'Close Up' series- the fans just leave wanting more! This man was born to entertain. Highlights included holiday standards complimented by classic snowy pictures of Glens Falls on the giant screen, story songs like 'Oklahoma' and 'One Voice', and 'The Voice' songs that captivated the crowd and brought them to their feet- 'I Surrender' and 'All I Ask'. The music was an absolute hit with appreciated banter between songs, and entertainment perfection that was worthy of being televised. (Click For Concert Pics)
Billy Gilman is a man who could do anything to entertain - whether it's singing Bluegrass, Country, Celine Dion or covering a Christmas Classic. I'd even state that the vibrant entertainer is poised for Broadway (if he ever desired a role). For now, he keeps gaining more and more fans, and earning more and more credit with every stellar concert appearance. More importantly, he's also good to his followers- which is a must for career longevity.
Click For More Billy Gilman Music
The 'Close Up' series started in Glens Falls, NY, as a companion to Kevin Richards' radio shows, with the mission of putting great singers back in the spotlight. Legends like Randy Travis, Kathy Mattea, Pam Tillis, Doug Stone, Billy Dean, Suzy Bogguss, Larry Gatlin and Crystal Gayle have made special appearances in the intimate and exclusive 'living room' style series. Kevin Richards will welcome Janie Fricke, the CMA's 1982 and 1983 Female Vocalist of the Year, on Sunday, March 16, 2025 followed by Georgette Jones' tribute to her parents, George Jones and Tammy Wynette, on May 18, 2025 and Dion Pride's tribute to his father, Charley Pride, on October 18, 2025. Click Here for more info on 'Close Up' shows.
Photo : Jeremy Little
Photo : Jeremy Little
Photo : Dan Crowther Photography
Photo : Dan Crowther Photography
