Brantley Gilbert concerts are known for their high-energy performances, onstage and in the famous “pit” in front of the stage. His loyal fan base is wide-ranging—from blue collar to high rollers—it’s one of the reasons he keeps ticket prices affordable for all audiences. Over the course of 90 minutes, Gilbert connects with his audience, reading their reactions and adjusting his setlist to ensure everyone has a great time. “It’s really cool,” he shares, “I can see the faces in the pit, and it’s super easy to interact with them.”
In the latest Country Muscle Podcast, the “Bottoms Up” singer tells host Jeff Tomko touches on topics such staying as staying alcohol free for over a decade, with the help of fellow country artist Keith Urban. He goes over the meaning of each tattoos, and the significance of each title of his albums, including his latest, Tattoos. He also goes over what he’s doing to stay in shape for his current tour as well as the help he’s getting from a famous MMA nutritionist, who’s worked with stars such as Conor McGregor and even Jelly Roll.
Life at a Brantley Gilbert Concert
While crowd engagement is essential, the environment can still be unpredictable; Gilbert recalls that his shows once averaged three to four fights in the pit, though this has since diminished, with only one or two scuffles happening on a given night.
The intimacy of the concert setting allows Gilbert to witness the genuine emotions of his fans, some of whom have been attending his shows for years. To enhance safety for younger attendees, he encourages parents to position their children on the barricade, allowing for quick action in case of any unexpected incidents during the performance.
Adding to the concert’s unique atmosphere is Gilbert’s signature mic stand—adorned with brass knuckles. The design is a throwback to his early days playing in rough biker bars and clubhouses. Gilbert recalls his journey into music, saying, “When I was younger, I was a pretty little dude.” He experienced firsthand the necessity of protecting his equipment, which included two speakers on sticks and a mic stand. “If any of that got hit, I was out of work,” he explains.
The brass knuckles, creatively attached to his microphone by his late monitor engineer Alan Ditch, have evolved into a comforting prop that keeps Gilbert engaged while performing. “I have a little ADD, so sometimes I need something to do with my hands,” he admits. The knuckles not only serve as a physical reminder of his roots but have also transformed into a staple of his performances, adding an extra layer of personality to his shows.