Eddie Montgomery's solo debut Ain't No Closing Me Down channels the spirit of his late partner, Troy Gentry, who died in a 2017 helicopter crash. Despite the loss, Eddie made a promise to Troy: Montgomery Gentry's music would go on. This album, a mix of raucous honky-tonk and heartfelt moments, reflects that commitment. "Troy is always with me," says Eddie, who still feels his presence onstage. The Wild Bunch, the band that toured with MG, backs him up on the album, honoring their shared legacy.

Montgomery Gentry rose to stardom in the late '90s with hits like Tattoos & Scars and "Hell Yeah," collecting numerous accolades. Eddie credits his upbringing in Kentucky, where his family played in honky-tonks, as the foundation for his music career. Even after Troy's death, Eddie kept his word to continue the MG sound, tapping into his memories of their time together to create this album.

A major theme in the music is resilience, with tracks like "Ain't No Closing Me Down" reflecting Eddie's defiance in the face of loss and hardship. The song "Alive and Well" speaks to the personal grief of losing Troy and two sons, but also to the strength that comes from carrying on. Other tracks like "Ain't She Beautiful" and "Higher" with Tanya Tucker show Eddie's patriotism and love for his country, while songs like "My Son" reflect his deep connection to his family.

While the album touches on both painful and joyful moments, it remains true to the rowdy, honest sound that defines Montgomery Gentry. Eddie continues to find joy in life-whether it's grilling for friends during the pandemic or spending time with his wife, Jen Jen, who inspired the love song "She Just Loves Me."

Though he's slowed down with age, when Eddie puts on his hat and grabs his guitar, it's like old times, with Troy's memory always by his side. For Eddie, it's more than music-it's a promise to live life fully, no matter what, and to always keep the spirit of Montgomery Gentry alive.

Tickets are $57.50, $47.50, $37.50 or $27.50 plus tax and an online?phone ticketing fee (this fee is waived when tickets are purchased in the Gift Shop). Tickets in the ADA section are for patrons with mobility disabilities and up to three companions. If companion seating is not available because the ADA section is sold out, RCGR will offer other seats as close as possible to the accessible seat, if available, at the purchase price of the other section. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, November 22, at 10 AM. Tickets can be purchased in the Gift Shop, by calling 319-648-1234 or online.

Doors open at 7 PM for the 8 PM show.