The Enduring Impact of Daughtry was on Display in Welsh, Minnesota

It is wild to think that it has been almost 20 years since Chris Daughtry was eliminated (many say prematurely) from the singing contest show American Idol—and that it was only the long-running program’s fifth season!

Chris Daughtry belts out a song. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Chris formed the band Daughtry in 2006 after his departure from American Idol and has never looked back. He turned down offers to be the frontman of a few groups because he was certain he could make it on his own. The persistence—and insistence—that led to that decision has paid off in a big way.

Daughtry just released its seventh full album and the five-member band continues to put out songs with meaningful lyrics and fantastic melodies. The musicians last visited Minnesota in December 2023 for the 93X Nutcracker. One year later, on December 20, Daughtry returned with a headlining stop at Treasure Island Resort and Casino for its “Adrenaline Gone Ballistic Holiday Tour.”

Josh Paul plays bass. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Chris also mentioned that the last time the band visited Welch, Minnesota, was April 18, 2018. “It looked exactly the same outside then as it does now,” referring to the blistering cold weather and huge snow piles out in the parking lot. You all are some tough mo fo’s!”

Opening for the band this Friday evening was Sleep Theory, which plays a balance of metal and R&B. The foursome started performing together in 2020 and has one full EP, Paper Hearts, released in 2023, as well as six singles that get regular radio play in Minnesota.

Cullen Moore of Sleep Theory. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

The Memphis-based band has been touring for all of 2024, save for taking a month-long break in August. The ensemble is unusual in that three of the four members sing some form of vocals on the majority of its tracks, which gives the group a unique and varied sound not found elsewhere.

Paolo Vergara playing bass for Sleep Theory. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Daughtry played to a packed house and showcased why it remains one of rock’s most beloved acts. Chris told fans that when they walked through the doors of the Treasure Island building, “you are now part of our tribe,” which got the crowd roaring.

The band has garnered many accolades over the years, including three Grammys and an American Music Award.

The first Grammy was for Best Rock Album for its self-titled record. The band also won Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for its song, “It’s Not Over,” which it treated fans to at Treasure Island. The last Grammy came in 2008 for the song “Home,” which the band also played on Friday, but this time, acoustically. The stripped-down version was a departure from the band’s other heavy, electric guitar–forward songs. It was a great way to connect with the audience since so many fans in attendance had seemingly followed the band for many years.

Chris Daughtry, lead singer. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Daughtry’s 2008 American Music Award was for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group. The band’s popularity continues today, and Chris told fans that 93X lists his band as being the most played rock music on its airwaves in 2024. The setlist was a blend of nostalgia and fresh energy, and featured fan favorites like “It’s Not Over” and “Over You,” alongside tracks from newer albums. Chris got the crowd involved in the song “Over You” by asking those in attendance to sing the different lines while he took over supporting vocals. He relayed that the song has taken on a different meaning over the years, and he now thinks of it as a way to move past a challenge. “Basically this song is a big f— you to whatever is holding you back,” he told the crowd. “Maybe it’s a sh-tty job. Maybe it’s a sh-tty person…. Let’s manifest some sh-t!”

Elvio Fernandes sings and plays keyboards. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

A good portion of the songs played came from the band’s latest album,, SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM (PART ONE), which was released earlier this year This begs the question: When will part two be released? Possibly in 2026 after two big tours wrap up in 2025.

Fans will be happy to learn that Daughtry is touring with Disturbed from March through May of next year. After a month-long break, the band will begin touring with Creed for the “Return of the North America 2025 ‘Summer of ‘99 Tour.’”

Brian Craddock rips the guitar for Daughtry. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Between songs on Friday, Chris shared heartfelt moments, engaged the audience with stories about song meanings, encouraged everyone to be kind and to care about others, and expressed gratitude for fans’ unwavering support over the years. His followers are likely aware of his messages about mental health, grief, and loss, which were sprinkled throughout the show. Before playing “NERVOUS,” he addressed the crowd.

“When you just feel like one thing after another is going wrong…. Have you been there, Welch, Minnesota? When you are just waiting for the next shoe to drop. Always watching over your back. It’s a terrible place to live. Maybe you’re going through that right now. If so, this song is for you.”

Chris Daughtry sings his heart out for those in attendence in Welch, MN. Photo by Wendy Nielsen

Before his acoustic set, Chris was on the stage alone with only his guitar and continued to engage the audience.

“I welcome you to sing this next song with me, if you know it. Hell, even if you don’t know it, just make some sh-t up. I promise you, Welch, I have heard the wrong lyrics to this song for 18 years. And they are usually quoted to me, which is even better,” he said with snark in his voice. “So, I’m just gonna clear that part up really quick so that we are all on the same page. It’s ‘I’m going home,’ not ‘I’m coming home.’”

The night came to a close with an encore performance of “THE DAM” from the band’s newest album, and then a big build-up for the song, “Artificial.” All night the stage lights and graphics were on point, but they were particularly beautiful for this portion of the show.

For fans who attended, it was a night to remember. Daughtry’s live show is a must-see experience. Good thing Minnesotans have two options in 2025. Go grab your tickets now!