The Stanislaus County Fair will have John Michael Montgomery kick off this year’s run as the first headliner on July 13. The performance will take place on the Bud Light Variety Free Stage at 8:30 p.m. The concert will be hosted by KAT Country 103 and is free with the price of Fair admission.

“Not only is John Michael Montgomery an incredible singer, but he’s also an amazing storyteller,” said Adrenna Alkhas, spokesperson for the Stanislaus County Fair. “It’s easy to hear his heart being poured into his music and on Friday the 13th, lucky concertgoers will witness this firsthand.”

Montgomery has turned an uncanny ability to relate to fans into one of country music’s most storied careers. Behind the string of hit records, the roomful of awards, as well as the critical and fan accolades that have defined his phenomenal success, lies a connection that goes beyond his undeniable talent and his proven knack for picking hits. Few artists in any genre sing with more heart than this handsome, Kentucky-born artist. Such observation is evident in love songs that have helped set the standard for a generation. Songs like “I Swear,” “I Love the Way You Love Me,” and “I Can Love You Like That” still resonate across the landscape.

Montgomery’s sentimental and undeniably beautiful storytelling is what has made him so unforgettable. Apart from this, he has also co-produced an album, “Time Flies,” with Byron Gallimore, strengthening his position as one of the most versatile and compelling vocalists on the country scene. With songs like “Forever” and “If You Ever Went Away,” Montgomery proved he is still master of the power ballad, a man capable of bringing honest emotion to life in song.

Other Variety Free Stage acts booked for this year’s Fair include: Music legends Kool & The Gang on July 14; three-time Grammy-nominated member of the Grand Ole Opry Trace Adkins on July 16, hard rock classic Blue Öyster Cult on July 17, high-energy Lifehouse on July 18, one of the first ever female rap crews Salt-N-Pepa on July 19, country music star Eastin Corbin on July 20 and ‘70s rock icons Grand Funk Railroad on July 21.

The 2018 Stanislaus County Fair opens July 13 for a 10-day run. Discounted Fair admission tickets, unlimited ride wristbands, and the Fair season pass will be on sale beginning April 28. Corporate ticket sales will also be available to purchase at a highly discounted rate. Visit the Fair’s website for upcoming ticket sale information at www.stancofair.com.