Aaron Watson Promises Great Time At Antelope County Fair

With every album and every single, Aaron Watson has become more and more in style with country music fans.

And that’s just the way the 40-year-old Texan likes it. After all, his steady climb toward success has skyrocketed in the last year thanks to national hits like “Outta Style” and “Run Wild Horses.”

Watson will bring those songs and more — along with a high-energy show — to the Antelope County Fair on Friday night. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30 at the gate and just $20 in advance.

“We’re going to have a lot of fun. Everybody needs to come out and enjoy a Friday night at the Antelope County Fair,” Watson told the Antelope County News last week. “We love Nebraska. Nebraska has always been so good to us.”

Watson, who grew up near Amarillo, Texas, developed a cult following early in his career and took the national scene by storm in 2015 when his 10th studio album, “The Underdog,” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard country charts. The feat was a first for a male artist on an independent label.

His next album, “Vaquero,” debuted at No. 2 on Billboard and the single, “Outta Style” propelled him to national fame as it became a top-10 hit on radio.

With a traditional country sound mixed with a taste of red-dirt, Watson said he’s not chasing the latest flavors of the month or the popular sound of the moment. Instead, he’s staying true to himself and his music.

“Only God knows what the future holds, but I tell you what, I really feel like the best is yet to come. We’re fixin’ to put the pedal to the metal with the next album,” Watson said. “I really feel like I’m just getting started. I’m working on songs now that are the best I’ve ever written. We’ve taken the long road to get to where we are now, but it’s allowed us to stay independent and stay true to our brand of music. I think that’s something that’s given us longevity and loyalty from fans.”

Whether Watson is at his peak or still climbing, Antelope County fans will see an artist comfortable with himself as well as hear a slew of recognizable songs, including “July in Cheyenne” and “That Look.”

Watson promised to perform all of his hits, as well as his latest single, “Run Wild Horses,” which is a sultry love song he wrote for his wife.

“They say country music is three chords and the truth. I jokingly say this song is two chords and sexy,” Watson said with a laugh. “It’s just a fun song where I’m letting her know that after all these years, she’s still got it.”

He and his wife Kimberly have three children—Jake, Jack and Jolee Kate. As a husband and father, Watson said he works hard to balance his career and family. He flies home weekly and said it’s not uncommon for him to spend 10 hours flying home just to have eight hours with his kids.

“It’s worth it,” he said. “It’s an on-going formula with a lot of give and take.”

Watson, who played junior college baseball and shares that passion with his son, said he’s squeezed in a lot of family time this summer and will head to Neligh after a week at church camp with his kids.

Coming to Neligh fresh on a Friday night, Watson said fans should expect to have a great time at the Antelope County Fair. And if they brings the kids — that’s even better.

“If they can’t find babysitters, bring the whole family. It’s a family-friendly show,” he said. “I really do enjoy putting on shows for the kids, but sometimes moms maybe need a little time off, then get a sitter. I love putting on shows for moms, too.”

​Concert tickets are on sale at the Ag Society trailer in Riverside Park and will increase from $20 to $30 on Friday.