Avery Anna at The Ritz in Raleigh, NC – Concert Review & Photo Gallery
Photos And Review by Dave Tesh
Raleigh, North Carolina, had the honor of being the starting point for Avery Anna's Blood Runs Thicker Tour on Friday night, October 16, as the rising country music artist kicked off her latest run of shows at The Ritz.
Opening the evening was Jaide Joice, who brought a gritty blend of country, rock, and blues, peppered with fiery vocals that delivered plenty of attitude and energy to the stage. Her performance set the tone for the night before Avery Anna took over the spotlight.
And Anna wasted no time getting things started.
She came out blazing with “Man Downstairs,” setting the tone for a performance that showcased both her powerful vocals and emotionally driven songwriting. She kept the momentum going with songs such as “Mr. Predictable,” giving fans a taste of the sound and attitude that have helped her carve out her own place in country music.
One of the night's highlights came when Anna introduced new material, including a song titled “Roadkill.” The new track explores the painful emotions of feeling broken, abandoned, and left behind. It's the kind of raw, personal storytelling that has become a trademark of Anna's music and a reminder of why her songs connect with so many listeners.
The Arizona native has built a loyal following by writing about subjects that aren't always easy to talk about. Heartbreak, relationships, self-doubt, and the struggles of growing up are familiar territory, and she has a way of turning those experiences into music that feels genuine rather than manufactured.
Her rise began on social media, but she's proven there's considerably more to her talent than viral videos. Songs like “Narcissist” and “Self Love” helped introduce her to country music fans, while her collaboration with Sam Barber on “Indigo” brought even greater attention to her music.
That momentum has continued to build, culminating in her win for New Female Artist of the Year at the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards in 2026.
What sets Anna apart is her ability to blend contemporary country sounds with honest, sometimes deeply personal songwriting. Her music doesn't always follow the traditional country formula, and that's part of its appeal. She isn't afraid to show vulnerability, but there's also an unmistakable confidence in the way she delivers her material.
From the fiery opening of “Man Downstairs” to the emotional debut of “Roadkill,” Anna delivered a high-energy performance balanced with moments of raw vulnerability, setting a strong tone for the Blood Runs Thicker Tour.
Avery Anna Concert at The Ritz in Raleigh, NC, on October 16, 2026, Photo Gallery:
