Review: Tyler Childers Shines at CU Boulder’s Iconic Folsom Field

Tyler Childers brought his global "Mule Pull '24 Tour" to the University of Colorado Boulder's iconic Folsom Field on Saturday, August 17, and he put on an incredible show for all in attendance. The turnout was nothing short of astounding--there was hardly any room on the floor, and the stands were no exception. 

Shakey Graves (born Alejandro Rose-Garcia) opened for Childers with his impressive one-man band setup. Some of his songs got the energy flowing, others didn't. Frankly, Childers has had stronger opening acts. For instance, Childers previously had Wynonna Judd open for him back in 2023. While she may be what some describe as a "has been", her performance was strong, and the audience was enthralled.

2024 Setlist

1. Whitehouse Road

2. Old Country Church

3. Can I Take My Hounds to Heaven?

4. Country Squire

5. Bus Route

6. I Swear (To God)

7. Cluck Ol' Hen

8. Rustin' in the Rain

9. All Your'n

10. In Your Love

11. Angel Band

12. Lady May

13. Nose on the Grindstone

14. Follow You to Virgie

15. Percheron Mules

16. Two Coats (Jubilee Version)

17. Shake the Frost

18. Honky Tonk Flame

19. Way of the Triune God

20. House Fire

21. Universal Sound

22. Heart You've Been Tendin'

In between songs, the fans got to hear Childers express many personal sentiments, both to his fans and his bandmates. In particular country-hospitality fashion, Childers even set up for three acoustic songs without his band. These were the best parts of the show. Childers' voice paired with the sound of an acoustic guitar rang throughout Folsom Field and there was hardly a dry eye in the house. 

As his performance went on, he showed great emotion himself, as he discussed the amazing year he has had. Despite his best efforts, Childers shed a few tears when his own music brought him back to his life that inspired the lyrics. 

Part of the appeal of live music and performance is seeing artists truly get lost in their craft. Tyler Childers did not disappoint, and it was very evident that he is right where he belongs on stage, in front of as many as 50,000 loving fans. 

Although the venue may not have been the most enjoyable setting for fans, the music and energy definitely made up for the gaps that Folsom Field could not fill.