Kelowna-based country artist Mitch Zorn took the stage at Prospera Place on Thursday night to open for the legendary Nitty Gritty Dirt Band after receiving a last-minute call to fill in for Kathleen Edwards, who was unable to perform due to an illness.
With only a couple of hours’ notice to perform, Zorn delivered a standout performance that quickly won over the crowd, commanding the stage in his arena debut solo. The Nakusp, BC native showcased his raw vocals and heartfelt storytelling, drawing cheers from the audience gathered for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s iconic final tour.
“I’ve played a lot of shows and it’s usually… playing four or five hundred [capacity],” said Zorn. “Coming in through the back, sitting in the green room, and seeing the lineup full of people, it’s something I’ve dreamed about my entire life. So this is such an amazing experience, and I was definitely fighting some tears out there.”
Currently a finalist in the SiriusXM Top of the Country contest, Zorn’s debut album “Back To You” (604 Records) continues to gain momentum as he solidifies his place in Canada’s country music scene.