Naomi Weisman is a Canadian-Australian and mother of three, who loves to Ramble with her dog, cook for family and friends, and laugh whenever possible.
Seeing live music has always been one of my greatest joys—a love that started with my mother. Music filled our home, our weekends, and our summers at outdoor festivals and concert halls around Toronto.
Some of my fondest memories with Mom are from the Forum at Ontario Place. For those who never had the pleasure, the Forum was an outdoor venue with a revolving stage nestled within a beautiful park on Toronto’s waterfront. There wasn’t a bad seat in the house—unless it rained—because the stage turned, giving everyone a perfect view. As kids, we’d spend the day playing, then sprawl out on the grassy hill to watch acts like John Prine, Steve Goodman, Gladys Knight and the Pips, The Commodores, and The Temptations.
Today, that beloved Forum is known as the Budweiser Stage. It no longer revolves, but it’s bigger, more comfortable, and still offers that affordable grassy section. Despite all the upgrades, every time I’m there, it feels like summer—and it feels like Mom.
Spring always brings new beginnings—flowers, sunshine, and, best of all, summer concert listings. So when I saw Chris Stapleton was coming to the Budweiser Stage in August, I was all in. I managed to snag five tickets for myself, Brian, my son Max, his girlfriend, and my friend Rachel.
The evening began with Marcus King, a young Southern country-blues artist who often opens for Stapleton. He has a rich, soulful voice and writes songs that stay with you. Max loved discovering him—now we both have tracks like Sweet Mariona, Wildflowers and Wine, One Day She’s Here, and No Pain on repeat.
There’s something endearing about rough, scruffy men with long hair and denim jackets singing heartfelt love songs. Chris Stapleton—big, bearded, and every bit the road-weary troubadour—does it better than anyone. The crowd, filled with cowboy hats and full hearts, sang along to every word.
What I love most about concerts like this is the shared energy—being surrounded by people who love the music as deeply as you do. Stapleton fans are a joyful bunch. Picture hundreds of women in Daisy Dukes and cowboy boots, and men with wild beards and worn jeans, all belting out Tennessee Whiskey at the top of their lungs. Whatever you’re imagining—multiply that by ten.
The highlight of the night came during Fire Away. Thousands of phone flashlights lit up the dark, swaying in unison as voices filled the air. I looked over at Max, his arm around his girlfriend, and it hit me: big, burly guys love just as hard as anyone—and they’re not afraid to show it.
Chris Stapleton’s voice is pure soul, his guitar playing effortless, and his delivery unmatched. If you haven’t already, give Traveller, Tennessee Whiskey, Fire Away, You Should Probably Leave, and Starting Over a listen. You might just find yourself in the crowd next summer, singing along too.
Nomi’s Verdict: An unforgettable night under the stars with one of country music’s finest. Chris Stapleton delivers grit, heart, and soul in equal measure—proving that real emotion still has a place in modern music. If you ever get the chance to see him live, don’t think twice. It’s not just a concert—it’s a communion.
Here is a PLAYLIST just for you, Enjoy!
READ MORE > Nomi's Pics, Rambler Cafe Blog
Leave a comment