Blake Shelton's fan base has grown rapidly in the past few years. Shelton has just released his fifth album,"Pure BS," and with the success of singles off the new disc including "The More I Drink,' and "Home,' Shelton's audience has begun to grow. A little over 20,000 were at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds to see the country star perform.

The day began with newcomer Lee Brice. He has gained notoriety this year because of Garth Brooks smash single "More Than a Memory," which Brice co- wrote. The short set featured songs off of his upcoming album "Picture Of Me," including the current single "Upper Middle Class White Trash." Speaking to Brice before his set about his upcoming debut record and finally making a name for himself in the industry he said "I always knew in my heart that music is the bigger part of me, it was always music and football growing up. I'm the luckiest man in the world to be doing this. A lot of the songs on the album are really a picture of me. I do draw from personal experiences especially on this first album." Brice hit the stage and rocked the crowd, he made it clear that the country music industry will be seeing and hearing a lot more of him.

Next to grace the stage was Ashton Shepherd. The Leroy, Alabama native obviously connects with her fan base. The crowd loved every minute of her set, and it almost seemed as though the head liner had come out early. Shepherd's smash single "Takin' Off This Pain," has launched her career, she is definitely a performer to watch. Shepherd has a powerful voice and a very talented band behind her. Put that together with great songs and an entertaining live show and Shepherd may be a star in the making.

Andy Griggs hit the stage next and brought the crowd to a frenzy. The tour veteran Griggs mixed up past hit singles "She Thinks She Needs Me," as well as material from his new album such as "All About The Money." Griggs has incredible stage presence, as a member of the audience it is apparent the amount of time he has spent on the road. There was a genuine feel to his set, Griggs was having a good time on stage and that transferred into the audience.

It was finally time for the man of the hour, Blake Shleton. He rose up from beneath the stage and was welcomed by the audience chanting his name. Shelton kicked everything off with "When I Drink," and "Don't Make Me." Midway through the set Shelton's band left the stage and it was just him and an acoustic guitar. He performed hits"Home," and "The Baby." Like Griggs, Shelton has a genuine feel on stage. He's just being himself and having a great time with the fans. Whether it was drinking a beer between songs or having conversations with a few audience members toward the front, Shelton was out there to have a good time. Near the end of his set Shelton performed his biggest hit to date "Austin."It was a fitting end to a great day. New artists mixed with road tested country stars and gave the fans five hours of great music.

Concert Review Written By: Tyler Sobie