A few months back, all anyone could talk about was how American Idol contestant Hannah Harper’s voice was a dead ringer for Allison Krauss, Lee Ann Womack, and even the late legend Dolly Parton.
Well, proving she could very well step into the roles of these iconic country females, last night the now-season-24 winner filled the shoes of Krauss on stage, joining her tour-buddy Brad Paisley. Earlier this summer, the “String Cheese” singer announced she would be joining the country music staple and her Idol mentor on the road for his 2026 tour.
Considering the highly successful careers of some of Paisley’s opening acts (Kellie Pickler, Sara Evans, Avery Anna, Danielle Bradberry, and Taylor Swift), the opportunity is a surefire sign for a bright career ahead for the 26-year-old mom of three. Last night marked Harper’s very first stop on Paisley’s Live 2026 tour, kicking off her stage debut in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Adding to the number of fans weeping throughout the crowd thanks to his Dolly Parton, “When I Get Where I’m Going” tribute, Paisley continued to wreck the Hartford Healthcare Ampitheater audience with one of country music’s all-time saddest songs to date. He kicked off his 2003 hit, “Whiskey Lullaby,” when suddenly Harper waltzed from the side stage, harmonizing beautifully at the chorus.
Her subtle but gorgeous voice melted perfectly into Paisley’s, further proving that America made a pretty d*mn good choice when voting her Idol’s 2026 champion. She then took the lead, letting her belting vocals rip on the second verse.
Talk about an incredible full-circle moment for the Missouri native who just last spring was being mentored throughout Idol’s Hawaii rounds by Paisley and Keke Palmer. Harper has two more shows lined up this weekend on Paisley’s northeast tour stops, joining him back on the stage tonight, August 28, in Boston and tomorrow night in Bangor, Maine.
Brad Paisley Tour Dates:
- August 27- Bridgeport, CT
- August 28- Boston, MA
- August 29- Bangor, ME
- September 2- Fargo, ND
- September 4- Milwaukee, WI
- September 17- Estero, FL
- September 18- Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- September 19- St. Augustine, FL
- September 25- West Springfield, MA
- September 26- Richmond, VA
- October 8- Houston, TX
- October 9- Corpus Christi, TX
- October 10- Ennis, TX