See Intimate Backstage Photos From Frankie Ballard’s Indy Gig
Michigan native Frankie Ballard began his climb to country music stardom back in 2008, winning a competition to open for Kenny Chesney when the established singer played his home state. Two years later, Ballard's "Tell Me When You Get Lonely" broke him onto country radio, and in 2013 his "Helluva Life" briefly became the format's most played song. Now "Sunshine & Whiskey," an upbeat tune in which he attempts to describe the feeling he gets when smooching his "sweet Georgia peach," is Top 10, and Ballard is on the road, headlining a fall tour and prepping to open for Florida Georgia Line in 2015. Here, check out backstage and live photos from his recent Indianapolis date. Photos by Drew Reynolds
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Marquee Moon
The welcoming glow of the Old National Centre.
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Ring of Fire
Ballard flashes his bling.
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Walk the Line
Ballard waits in one of the venue's hallways, ready to make his way to the stage.
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Guitar Pickin’ Man
Up close and personal with Ballard's fretboard.
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Thinking Country
Finding a place where he can sit down and play off the pre-show jitters, Ballard improvises a tune.
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Inspection
Ballard himself takes a closer look.
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With the Band
The band gets ready for the show.
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Set List
Ballard opens with "I Came to Get Down" and progresses toward his biggest hit, "Helluva Life," before closing with the lighter "Drinky Drink."
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Southern Comfort Zone
Now in his comfort zone, Ballard cuts loose.
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Piano Man
Ballard's keyboardist, Billy Justineau, gets busy.
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Helluva Life
Ballard plays guitar.
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In My White Tee
Ballard's other guitarist, Eddie Robinson, approaches the edge, giving front-row fans a close look at his finger-work.
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Full Band
Positioned front-and-center, Ballard sings to the crowd.
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Young and Crazy
All smiles, Ballard heads off the stage – retiring to his dressing room for a drinky drink of his own.