Oliver Anthony

Chris Lunsford, known professionally by his grandfather’s name, Oliver Anthony, rose to prominence in 2023 with his breakout hit, Rich Men North of Richmond. The song, a powerful critique of government policies and the struggles of working-class Americans, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It made history by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard charts and has since amassed over 486 million streams on Spotify alone. Chris also became the first living male songwriter to have 13 songs chart simultaneously on Billboard's Top 50 Digital Song Sales. In addition, he reached the No. 1 spot on the U.S. iTunes chart and topped both Spotify and Apple Music rankings in the United States. 

With his raw, soulful vocals and a sound deeply rooted in Americana and folk traditions, Oliver Anthony captures the realities of economic hardship, disillusionment, and the resilience of small- town communities. His music resonates with those often unheard in mainstream discourse, earning him widespread acclaim and multiple chart-topping hits. Among them, Ain’t Got a Dollar reached No. 1 on Spotify’s Viral 50 list, further cementing his place as a rising force in country and folk music.

In 2024, Oliver Anthony released his highly anticipated debut studio album, Hymnal of a Troubled Man’s Mind, produced by Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb. The album, praised for its homespun authenticity, delves into themes of childhood nostalgia, the struggles of adulthood, and a worldview that extends beyond politics.

Despite his rapid rise to fame, Oliver Anthony remains deeply connected to his roots, using his platform to give voice to rural America’s hardships and triumphs. His music serves as a reflection of working-class resilience and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through song. For more information on new music and a full list of upcoming tour dates, visit www.oliveranthonymusic.com.

About the Grandstand Bag checks are conducted at all Grandstand events. The following items will be prohibited: weapons/firearms, alcoholic beverages not provided by the Fair & Events Center, air horns/whistles or other noisemakers, helium-filled balloons, glitter/confetti, glass bottles, fireworks, and illegal substances.

About the Clay County Fair & Events Center – Rooted in Tradition, the Clay County Fair and Events Center is a year-round facility that hosts more than 300 events annually, including its signature event, the Clay County Fair, powered by SMU. Known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1917, the Fair attracts more than 300,000 guests each September for nine days of world-class entertainment, competition, food, fun, and the largest farm machinery show at any fair in the United States. For more information, visit claycountyfair.com.