Keith Urban

Thursday September 25,  2025

@ United Center in Chicago, IL

(Review Written By: Tami Pierce)

When you think about various artists that become “classic powerhouses” in country music, one might immediately think of George Strait, Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn and Brad Paisley to name a few. And yet another that should always be noted with high regard is none other than Keith Urban. He definitely proved that on Thursday night in Chicago with his latest “High and Alive World Tour”.

On September 25, 2025, the United Center was transformed into a vibrant arena of musical celebration as Keith Urban took the stage for a concert that was equal parts nostalgia and pure country bliss. Fans filled the venue with anticipation and were rewarded with a setlist that both honored Keith’s classics and showcased his ongoing evolution as a performer.

After three very impressive opening acts, the stage was darkened and a massive curtain covered the front of the stage. Moments later, the music was cued and the anticipation of the main act came to a high as the view on the big screens and stage was the silhouette of Keith and his guitar to the opening riffs of “Straight Line”.  The crowd roared as the curtain fell and the velvety voice that can only be Mr Urban began to sing. His smooth guitar work and charismatic stage presence were on full display, and it was clear from the outset that this would be more than just a greatest hits showcase.

That was immediately followed with “Where the Blacktop Ends”, a fun number that had the crowd cheering and singing along. As the song ended Keith took a few minutes to speak with the audience, welcoming them and thanking everyone for spending the night with him and his band, “Chicago!! We made it back!! It’s Thursday night and we're kicking ass!!” Keith talked about how  - for the night- Chicago needs to just dance and enjoy the night.

The party continued with favorites like, “Long Hot Summer”, “Messed Up as Me” (from his latest studio release) and “Better Life”. As the crowd settled in and settled down, Keith moved seamlessly into a well blended duo with, “Somewhere in my Car” and “Cop Car”. At this point, Keith definitely had the arena captivated and enthralled as we all listened to his smooth and silky voice. "Days Go By" was delivered in a medley with "I Had Some Help," giving fans a fresh twist on familiar tunes.

One of the night’s most poignant moments came during "'Til Summer Comes Around" and "Heart Like a Hometown," where Keith’s storytelling prowess shined, drawing the audience into the narratives of each song. Keith talked about growing up and his beginnings in Australia. He talked about how his band would perform without him during the week because he had to go to ‘friggin school’ when he was 15. But his parents let him leave school to be with the band and history began, and still goes on to this day. The mid-set medley of "Kiss a Girl," "Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me," and a reprise of "Kiss a Girl" transformed the arena into a massive singalong, highlighting Keith’s knack for engaging every corner of a packed venue.

Mr. Urban’s set list took a fun and interesting turn as he sang, “The Fighter” with band member, Maggie Baugh. Their amiable voices blended    effortlessly together. This led to “Somebody Like You” which had the crowd on their feet and “One Too Many”. This duet with Pink was fun, light, upbeat and had her singing along on several big screens that surrounded him. And as Mr Urban is known to do, he took that time to head out thru the very enthusiastic crowd to the back of the arena where another smaller stage was awaiting. 

Never one to deny a risk, Keith’s flavorful variety continued with a cover of “Pink Pony Club”. He then immediately went into “You’ll Think of Me”, which has been a constant intimate signature tune Keith plays with such intense emotion, the audience feels every lyric on a personal level as they sing along. Before he left the small stage, Keith took a moment to sign his guitar and hand it out to a fan. He also then took several minutes shaking hands, signing a few autographs and taking selfies with his adoring fans. 

Back on the main stage after taking another stroll to greet his dedicated posse, Keith’s smooth velvety voice crooned the lyrics to “Blue Ain’t Your Color”. This was followed by “Wasted Time”, which was delivered with significant flair.

After a roaring ovation, Keith and his band returned for an encore that was nothing short of triumphant. Dressed in a white Blackhawks jersey, Mr. Urban’s powerful "Stupid Boy" brought the crowd to a hush, his emotional vocals resonating throughout the arena. The night closed with "You Get What You Give" and the always fun "You Look Good in My Shirt," where Keith once again walked thru the crowd, stopping while singing and playing his guitar - only to then turn the mic on many enthusiastic fans and have them finish the line “looking good in my shirt”.  The absolute thrilling performance sent fans home with a sense of joy and satisfaction that only a seasoned live performer can deliver. 

Keith Urban’s performance at the United Center was an absolute testament to his enduring appeal and artistry. The thoughtfully constructed setlist, masterful musicianship, and his genuine heartfelt connection with the audience made for a memorable night. Whether you were a longtime fan or a newcomer, Keith proved once again why he remains a powerhouse in contemporary country music.