Midland to bring Southwest sound to fair grandstand
Jess Carson, left, Mark Wystrach, and Cameron Duddy of Midland perform during Bourbon and Beyond Music Festival on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky. The modern country trio from Texas will perform at the fair in Escanaba this summer. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)
ESCANABA — The Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority has announced another grandstand event — a performance from Texan musical group Midland on Saturday, Aug. 22.
“Known for blending modern country with classic influences, Midland delivers a high‒energy yet authentic live show that has resonated with fans nationwide,” read a recent release. “With their distinctive look and sound, Midland has carved out a unique place in country music by honoring tradition while keeping their performances fresh and engaging.”
The band — made up of Mark Wystrach, Jess Carson and Cameron Duddy — is known for their platinum songs “Drinkin’ Problem” and “Burn Out” as well as gold-certified hits “Cheatin’ Songs,” “Make A Little” and “On The Rocks.” Their debut album was released in 2017.
Past performances by Midland sold out the Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show, packed out multi-night stands at Ft. Worth’s iconic Billy Bob’s and re-opened North Hollywood’s legendary Palomino Club for one night only, their website (midlandofficial.com) reports.
“Bringing listeners a resurgence of rich harmonies, sad melodies, tart, cheeky lyrics and steel guitar-dressed records, the retro-Nuevo trio has grown from bar band to an in-demand headliner,” the site reads.
Midland is now promoting their newest release, “Marlboro Man.”
The U.P. State Fair runs from Aug. 17 to 23. Last week, the U.P. State Fair announced that Phil Vassar would perform on Wednesday. Midland will be the Saturday event, the penultimate night of the fair.
“Fans can expect a night filled with sing‒along hits, strong storytelling, and a live experience that captures the spirit of classic country music,” said the U.P. State Fair Authority via a release from Executive Director Vickie Micheau.
Tickets go on sale for the Midland show tomorrow (April 21). 
General admission seating is included with paid gate admission, with limited Gold Circle ticket options available for purchase at UPStateFair.net.
The 2026 U.P. State Fair Grandstand series is presented by the Island Resort & Casino.






