Concerts

The Baddest Show on Earth

August 29, 2025

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Written by: Christie Bilbo

Photos by: Will Crews

Wednesday night (8.27.2025), Grand Prairie’s Texas Trust CU Theatre brought in the Baddest Show on Earth with Canyon Lights and George Thorogood and the Destroyers. All I can say is it was “Bad to the Bone.”

The Texas Trust CU Theatre in Grand Prairie, which opened in 2002 to replace the Reunion Arena, offers an intimate experience with a seating capacity of 6,350, contrasting with larger venues. The seats are comfortable, though legroom is somewhat limited; at 5’6″, I often had to shift my legs due to the proximity to the seat in front. The interior is beautifully designed, with an easy-to-navigate layout and conveniently located bathrooms. Dining options are fairly typical—featuring burgers, fries, popcorn, nachos, and drinks, although prices are comparable to those at airports. Since I don’t drink alcohol, I assume those prices are high for adult beverages.

The bag policy at Grand Prairie’s Texas Trust CU Theater allows only small bags: clutches must be no larger than 6×9 inches, while clear plastic or vinyl bags can be up to 12x12x6 inches. They do check sizes carefully. At the last concert I attended, my usual bag—measuring 11.61 x 10.75 x 1.1 inches—was not permitted. Frustratingly, I had to walk back to my car and wait in line again to re-enter. To avoid issues, it’s best to use a small clutch or keep your belongings in your pockets.

Canyon Lights started the evening with a blend of blues and hints of rock ‘n’ roll. The band features Pat Faherty on vocals and guitar, Tim Carman on drums, and a new bass player whose name I didn’t catch. The lead singer bore a resemblance to an early Lindsey Buckingham, with curly hair in a big afro, bell-bottoms, and a button-up shirt, evoking a distinctly 1970s vibe.

The band started the night with “Seventh Son,” “Let Me In,” and “Love Me Sweetly.” They also covered the James Gang song, “Walk Away,” and did a great job. With an eleven-song setlist, they energized the crowd for the main act.

George Thorogood and the Destroyers took the stage, prompting loud cheers from the crowd. Most of the audience was older, consisting of people from the 60s and 70s, with only a few younger attendees. I remember living in Lake Worth, just across the street from Indian Oaks Tavern, where his songs often played on the jukebox. Born in 1972, I grew up listening to George Thorogood’s music and was always struck by his rugged image. I always imagined myself as an adult, sitting in a bar, having a drink, and soaking in the atmosphere. I looked forward to becoming an adult so I could enjoy the same fun I saw every night. Fourteen years of watching people slam drinks, dance, fight in the parking lot, and even catch the bar on fire.

George Thorogood and the Destroyers have always embodied a rowdy style. He’s known for his energetic stage presence, gritty and often vulgar songs, all complemented by a throaty voice that sounds like a man who might have smoked Marlboro Reds and drunk whiskey daily. Although he’s been sober since 2012, his onstage demeanor and vocal style remain unchanged.

The band had a short set compared to some concerts I’ve attended, but the number of songs doesn’t lessen how amazing the concert was great.

From the start, George became frustrated with a member of the crowd standing in front of the stage, recording with his phone. He repeatedly signaled for the man to sit down and enjoy the show. When the man didn’t comply, George reached down, grabbed his phone, and threw it. I have to admit, I quite liked that. It demonstrates that even at age 75, he still stands his ground and doesn’t tolerate nonsense.

I want to share my thoughts on the concert: I truly enjoyed it. When he called the night a ‘Tuesday jamboree and hootnanny,’ it was exactly that and more — like a satisfying slice of pie.

The crowd wasn’t constantly recording with their phones. They were there to immerse themselves in the music we all grew up listening to. Unlike today, where the stage is often obscured by countless phones, distracting viewers from seeing the artists.

I also really enjoyed seeing couples dancing and having fun. Whoever claimed that rock was dead was wrong. Tuesday night proved otherwise. Rock is making a comeback, as shown by these concerts where people are simply having a great time.

Being in your 60s or 70s doesn’t mean you’ll automatically start listening to Lawrence Welk or The Andrews Sisters, famous for their polka music. It’s inspiring to see older individuals stepping out and re-living their youth, just enjoying life and rocking out.

Some amazing artists are coming through the DFW area. Find your favorite band and go get a ticket. For me, it’ll be The Weekend at AT&T Stadium.