Walking into the Canadian Tire Centre, there were fans of all ages, cowboy hats side by side with casual concert‑goers, streaming in. The opening acts–Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen, and Karley Scott Collins–had already warmed up the crowd, laying down a mix of energy, charm, and strong vocals that primed Ottawa for what was to come.
By showtime, the arena was full, and when Keith Urban hit the stage, he hit the ground running.
You could tell right from the start why Keith Urban still sells out arenas—pure star power was on display, full of storytelling, big choruses, and expert guitar playing. He played a strong selection of both old favourites and newer tracks, giving fans what they came for while also showcasing where he is now musically.
The mix of hits: classics like “You Look Good in My Shirt,” “Days Go By,” “Cop Car,” and crowd sing‑along moments where you could feel most of the arena singing and up dancing with each other.
Urban made efforts to reach the crowd, whether through B-stage moments or simply talking with folks, asking for birthday shouts, and acknowledging signs, among other things. He was being mobbed on the floor as he walked through the crowd to his B-stage, as rabid fans looked for selfies, handshakes, and hugs, which he obliged them.
Urban’s guitar playing was sharp; solos felt meaningful and well‐timed, not gratuitous. His small fills enhanced the songs, along with the tight band; the pacing of the show balanced high energy with breathing room.
The transitions between big up-tempo numbers and ballads were handled well—the pacing kept momentum without exhausting the audience. Urban even did a cover of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” which had younger fans singing loudly. For the older generation, a short cover of Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues” got its moment just before the encore.
Keith Urban’s Ottawa High and Alive tour stop wasn’t just a greatest‑hits karaoke night, nor was it a concert full of untested material. It struck a strong balance: reminding fans why they’ve loved Urban for years, while also proving he’s still evolving and delivering.
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