When Tim McGraw and Faith Hill took the stage at the Smoothie King Center to kick off their long-awaited Soul2Soul Tour in 2017, they immediately defied expectations. Rather than easing into the show with a familiar country ballad or one of their chart-topping duets, they shocked a crowd of over 17,000 fans by diving headfirst into a bold, unexpected choice: a powerful rendition of the 1987 soul anthem “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me),” originally performed by Aretha Franklin and George Michael.

It wasn’t the opening most country fans anticipated, but it set the tone for a night that would focus less on genre and more on emotion, chemistry, and the enduring power of musical connection. From the first electrifying notes, the arena came alive. The 12-piece band behind them created a rich, full sound, and the stage glowed with vibrant red and gold lighting. Faith Hill’s voice soared through the opening lines with clarity and strength, bringing a gospel-inspired elegance that contrasted beautifully with Tim McGraw’s deep, earthy Southern drawl. Their voices blended with a harmony that was both precise and intimate, breathing new life into the beloved track.

What might have been just another cover song became something more in their hands—an expression of partnership, of resilience, and of love matured over time. This performance wasn’t about showing off vocal range or dazzling the crowd with stage effects. It was about storytelling. As they sang, McGraw and Hill moved slowly toward each other, eyes locked, as if the lyrics reflected their own journey together. Fans, some clapping along and others visibly emotional, responded not just to the music but to the authentic bond unfolding on stage. For a couple married since 1996 and having shared both personal and professional highs and lows, the song’s message of patience, belief, and reunion hit home on a deeper level. The staging was deliberately understated.

There were no fireworks or backup dancers. Just two spotlights, two microphones, and two seasoned performers completely in sync. By opening with a soul cover instead of a greatest-hits track from their individual careers, they made a clear statement: this tour wasn’t just a celebration of their music—it was a celebration of their journey. Choosing “I Knew You Were Waiting” as their opening number wasn’t just about surprising the audience; it was symbolic. The song’s lyrics speak to the belief in someone’s return, to the idea that no matter how long the road, true connection will find its way back. After years of touring separately and focusing on their solo careers, this tour was their reunion not only with each other but with their fans as a duo.

It was a reminder that, despite the pressures and changes of the music industry, their bond remains strong. As the final chorus echoed through the arena and they stood side by side, silhouetted by soft lights, they reached out and gently touched hands. That quiet moment spoke volumes. It wasn’t staged or overly dramatic—it was real. And it was a powerful reminder of why McGraw and Hill continue to be one of country music’s most beloved pairs. Their opening number wasn’t just a performance; it was a promise that what the audience was about to experience wasn’t a typical concert—it was an invitation into something personal and enduring. In a world of overproduced performances and fleeting fame, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill chose to open their tour with something raw, unexpected, and deeply heartfelt. With one carefully selected soul classic, they reminded everyone that music is at its most powerful when it reflects real emotion, and that true artistry doesn’t have to be flashy to make an impact. Their performance was more than just a throwback hit—it was a declaration of unity, of love weathered by time, and of a continued story that they were proud to share, not just with each other, but with every person in that arena.