THE DRIVER ERA LIVE!! | REDHAT AMPHITHEATER
Coverage by Chris Sturk
The Driver Era Electrifies Red Hat Amphitheater
On June 20, 2025, The Driver Era lit up the Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, NC, performing to a crowd of over 1,500 ecstatic fans. The alternative rock duo—brothers Rocky and Ross Lynch—delivered a high-energy set that showcased their signature blend of swagger, soul, and synth-driven rock.
Formed in 2018, The Driver Era quickly carved out a space in the alt-rock scene with their breakout single “Preacher Man,” which received heavy rotation on major radio stations across the U.S. Since then, the band has continued to evolve, captivating audiences with their dynamic sound and magnetic stage presence.
Ross Lynch, the band’s charismatic frontman, is no stranger to the spotlight. He rose to fame as Austin Moon on the Disney Channel’s Austin & Ally, which ran for five seasons. He later stunned critics with his haunting portrayal of a young Jeffrey Dahmer in the indie biopic My Friend Dahmer—a performance many still consider his most compelling to date.
The Raleigh stop on their tour proved that The Driver Era isn’t just riding the wave of past success—they’re defining their own future, one electrifying performance at a time. As the lights dimmed over the Red Hat Amphitheater, the crowd's anticipation hit a fever pitch. The Driver Era’s backing band took the stage first, setting the mood with a pulsing undercurrent of energy. Moments later, Rocky Lynch emerged, soon followed by his brother Ross—sending the entire amphitheater into a roar of excitement.
Without missing a beat, they launched into their opener, “Touch,” followed closely by fan favorite “Better.” Surprisingly, the band did not perform their breakout hit “Preacher Man,” which left some fans puzzled—or in my case, wondering if I somehow blinked and missed it. Still, the setlist was packed with high-octane tracks that kept the energy surging all night.
Ross, ever the magnetic performer, contunisly connected with the crowd which is something he’s become known for, trading smiles, gestures, and anecdotes that made the massive venue feel intimate. Rocky matched his brother’s passion note for note, and together they delivered a performance that felt both polished and deeply personal.
With each tour and each new song, The Driver Era continues to evolve—not just as musicians, but as a band defining its own legacy. If this show was any indication, it's only a matter of time before they’re playing to sold-out arenas across the country.
