On Friday night, Neal McCoy delivered a high-energy performance that blended decades of hits with spontaneous charm and a deep appreciation for his Canadian fans.
McCoy, who made the 30-hour trek from Texas to Swift Current by bus, said the journey was smooth and well worth it.
"Anytime you get on a bus and go where you're trying to get to and you don't break down, it's always a good trip," he said with a grin before the show.
The veteran performer, known for hits such as Wink and The Shake, has a long history with Saskatchewan. He recalled playing Swift Current in the early 1980s alongside the late Charlie Pride, who was a staple of the local music scene.
"He used to come up here almost every year," he remembered. "I remember Crystal Chandelier. It was never even released in the U.S., but it was a massive hit in Canada.
"Every time we came up here, people would sing along."
McCoy's connection to Canada runs deeper than nostalgia. One of his longtime fiddle players hails from Prince Albert, Sask., and he credits the country's warm reception for keeping him coming back.
Now more than four decades into his career, McCoy says the secret to his longevity is simple: "I love what I do. I get the chance to bring joy to people, and when we do it right, we receive joy in return. And we get paid, so everybody's happy."
True to form, McCoy's show was anything but scripted.
"Expect the unexpected," he said. "We've never used a set list. I turn around and holler at the band what I think would work next. If we mess up, that's okay — we're all here to have fun."
The crowd was treated to a mix of fan favourites, a few surprise covers, and McCoy's signature stage banter that kept the energy high and the audience engaged.
For those who missed the show, McCoy had a message: "If you've never seen us, come give us one shot. Hopefully, we'll win you over for life."
Frontier Days wrapped up night Saturday with performances by Drake Milligan and The Brothers G, and fireworks.