At this year’s Windy City Smokeout, country music sensation Parker McCollumheadlined the event for the very first time. The talented singer had a remarkable past few years, clinching the prestigious New Male Artist of the Year award at the 2022 Country Music Awards. Adding to his list of accomplishments, McCollum also dropped his highly-anticipated 4th studio album titled “Never Enough,” which featured chart-topping tracks like “Burn It Down” and “Handle On You.” Ahead of his unforgettable performance at Windy City Smokeout, we had the opportunity to sit down with Parker McCollum and gain insight into why he loves the city of Chicago.
How do you feel about your first time headlining Windy City Smokeout?
Parker: Pretty good. The only other time I played at Windy City Smokeout was in 2009 [where] we played at 2:00 in the afternoon.
So it’s a pretty exciting time then. How would you describe the Chicago crowd?
Parker: Chicago really loves Country music, and they always show out for it. We play so many shows every year, and this one has been on my calendar for a while. This one has stood out [for me] every time I look at the tour. I’ve really been looking forward to it, and I think tonight will be pretty special.
We’re so excited to hear your set. I know you’ve been to Chicago before, so I wanted to know if you had a favorite spot here.
Parker: I know I’ll get some flak for this. But for some reason, the only time I ever eat [here] is at the Uncle Julios in Chicago. And I know it’s all over the place but for some reason I always eat there when I’m here, and I think this one is just better than other ones. When we would play [at the bar] Joe’s On Weed Street, there’s one right around the corner from there. I would always go after soundcheck and get the bacon-wrapped shrimp. I know people from Chicago are probably like, what a trash answer, but that’s all I got.
You started your music in Austin… what’s one thing Austin has that Chicago doesn’t?
Parker: It’s called Terry Blacks Barbecue. It’s number one in the country, no question.
And what’s one thing Chicago has that Austin doesn’t?
Parker: A green river on St. Patrick’s Day, which I would love to come to see sometime, and hopefully, I’ll get to one day.
Agreed, I love the Green River. And my last question is if you have any Chicago hot takes.
Parker: Not really. We play all over, and I’ve been all over this country for years now. Chicago is my favorite city to play in and [not even just playing] but being here. I like the vibe, great food, great culture. I’ve been to a couple of Cubs games at Wrigley and really enjoyed the times I got to go to those. I’m a big baseball fan, and just getting to go to Wrigley Field…I just love Chicago. It’s probably my favorite city to play in.
