Friday, February 22, 2013
YOUNGSTOWN
On Friday night, Youngstown was the center of the country-music universe, as people traveled from places like Canton, Columbus and Meadville to see Rascal Flatts — the most awarded country group of the last decade — perform at the Covelli Center.
The arena was packed full of fans wearing cowboy hats and boots who greeted the band with enthusiasm.
Adding to the thrill of the sold-out show was a performance by The Band Perry, whose song “Better Dig Two,” has been the No. 1 country single the last two weeks.
Youngstown may not be known as a country-music stronghold, but with shows featuring Tim McGraw, Sugarland and Miranda Lambert under its belt, it’s on its way.
“We love Rascal Flatts,” said Joyce Fusco of Canfield, who went to the show with her husband, Joe, and 12 other family and friends.
“If it’s popular country, you can count us in,” she said as they walked along Boardman Street on their way to the show.
So far at the Covelli, she and her concert party has seen Sugarland, Eric Church, McGraw and Lamber.
Joyce’s friend, Mary Beth Sammartino, and Mary Beth’s husband, Larry, came from Columbus to attend the show.
For more on the show, and photos, read Saturday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.