International multi-platinum selling acclaimed singer and songwriter, academy award winning artist LeAnn Rimes plays an intimate acoustic set at the Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH
The night began with the crowd filling the small theatre. Shortly after LeAnn Rimes appeared in black attire with a black hat. She came to the Mic and had a brief hello.
Rimes graced the stage for an intimate acoustic concert, delivering a performance that felt as close to her soul as it gets. Stripped down to just her voice and a few instruments, the setting was serene, allowing every note, breath, and lyric to land with powerful clarity.
From the very first song, Rimes made it clear this wouldn’t just be a performance, but a heartfelt connection with her audience. She opened with “Remnants,” her vocals soft and tender before rising into the chorus with that signature power. It was impossible not to be captivated as her voice soared effortlessly, carrying the raw emotion behind every word.
One of the highlights of the evening was Rimes’ storytelling between songs. She shared anecdotes about her life, career, and the meaning behind some of her most iconic tracks. Before singing “Blue,” she reminisced about the early days of her career and the deep connection she feels with country roots. These personal touches made the night feel like a conversation between friends, drawing everyone in even more.
The crowd was in awe of how amazing and talented she is. With this being an acoustic performance Rimes voice was showcased through the theatre. There was no band to drawn out her pure talent.
“I Need You” was another standout, with her voice wrapping around each note, creating a hauntingly beautiful rendition. The acoustic arrangement allowed the emotion behind the songs to shine through, proving that even without the studio gloss, her music remains timeless.
She also treated fans to a few new songs, offering a glimpse into her current creative direction. These songs, raw and reflective, showcased her growth as an artist. They felt personal and poetic, and the stripped-back acoustic format made them even more poignant.
During “One Way Ticket, (Because I Can)” for this she mixed in excerpts of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” She explained how Chapman was an inspiration to her and she wondered how if she slowed down her song and joined the two songs together what it sound like and how beautiful it would sound. It was something very unique.
She continued her set with “But I Do Love You,” “Please Remember,” and “The Right Kind of Wrong.” For each of the songs she would introduce the songs and tell a little bit about how the song happened and how it relayed to her life either personally or professionally. The crowd was cheering, clapping, and singing along.
She went into “I need You,” and a cover of Janis Joplin’s “Bobby McGee.” She explained how Janis Joplin among others was an inspiration when she was younger. She remembered when she saw her live and saw how amazing she was Rimes was like that is what I want to be. That is what I want. She still inspires her in that way and that when she sees her now she still feels the same that she can’t take her eyes off her and how amazing an artist she is.
LeAnn Rimes’ acoustic concert was an evening of sincerity, intimacy, and sheer vocal talent. With nothing but her voice and minimal instrumentation, she captivated the audience, reminding everyone why she remains one of the most enduring talents in the music world. It was a night where emotion took center stage, and the connection between artist and audience felt palpable. A truly unforgettable experience.
