Payton Smith Previews New Album “The Bridge” at Chief’s on Broadway

Payton Smith and his band at a special release party for “The Bridge,” Emily Garver.

Family, friends and fans packed into a private room in Chief’s on Broadway to experience the debut performance of Payton Smith’s recently released album, "The Bridge.”

Smith, who is a Louisiana singer-songwriter based in Nashville, hosted the concert as a sneak peek for his classic country inspired album before its release on Friday. 

“You write the songs, record them, mix and master them, but the last step is playing them live. That’s what completes it. So tonight really felt like the final piece, the moment where the album becomes real,” said Smith. 

With a blend of heavy guitar-driven tracks and slower, more intimate songs, the night's performance highlighted Smith’s ability not only to create music, but also to perform and engage the audience. 

“I thought it was wonderful, he's such an incredible guitarist. Every time I go to one of his shows, even if I’m feeling sad or tired, he just lifts my energy. He makes me want to dance. He's such an amazing performer, and I love seeing him whenever I can,” said audience member Christine Susi. 

Open to all ages, even Smith’s baby daughter, who inspired some of the album, was in attendance. 

“The back half of this album is more introspective and personal, it’s the songwriter side of me. It really reflects where I am at 25, married young, having a baby, and being in that in-between space, still young, but also growing up fast,” said Smith. 

While Smith performed songs from “The Bridge,” he also covered his older songs like “Holler Back Home” and brought out special guests Blake Ballinger, Jeff Gibson and Joybeth Taylor for a surprise writers’ round. 

Jeff Gibson, Payton Smith, Joybeth Taylor and Blake Ballinger performing a special writers round, Samantha Graessle.

Although Smith performed several slower ballads reflecting on his new family life, his energy throughout the night did not falter, all the way through a passionate guitar filled performance of title track, “The Bridge.” 

“Getting people to come down to Broadway on a Thursday night in Nashville can be a bit nerve-wracking, but people really showed up and showed out. The band played for 90 minutes performing the whole album, plus a few special moments. It was a really successful night,” said Chase Berlin, artist manager. 

To stream “The Bridge,” Click Here!