Photo by Anthony Mooney

Review by Wannabe Cowb0y

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Day three of C2C: Country to Country at London’s The O2 Arena felt like a true celebration of country music — a night where rising stars, fan favourites, and legendary icons combined for an unforgettable finale.

 

Kicking things off in style was Mackenzie Carpenter, making a triumphant return to the festival as Return of the Mack blasted through the arena as her walk-on track. Opening with the witty Dozen Red Flags — the same track that launches her HEY COUNTRY QUEEN album — she immediately had the crowd on side. Her short but impactful set wrapped up with I Wish You Would, delivered solo without Midland, a confident and stylish way to set the tone for the evening.

 

Next up, Ashley Cooke brought personality and power in equal measure. Her voicemail-style intro quickly grabbed attention before she burst onto the stage with an excited “I’m in Londonnnn!”, a moment that instantly connected her with the crowd. As her set unfolded, her strong vocals and layered harmonies shone throughout, but it was her personality that truly elevated the performance. A standout moment came during her London twist on Baby Blues, featuring Katie from Girls In Low Places, adding humour and charm that had the arena laughing along. By the end, Cooke had firmly stamped her place on the main stage.

 

Kameron Marlowe followed with a powerful and engaging performance, blending commanding vocals with heartfelt songwriting. The O2 crowd responded in full voice, singing back every word and creating a goosebump-worthy atmosphere. His performance of Strangers stood out, and while Ella Langley wasn’t present, Ashley Cooke stepped in to deliver a stunning duet moment that more than did the song justice.

 

Then came a standout set from Drake Milligan, who delivered one of the performances of the weekend. A full-circle moment after playing the Spotlight Stage just three years earlier, Milligan returned to the main stage with confidence and flair. Armed with impressive guitar skills and charismatic stage presence, he had the O2 rocking from start to finish. Tracks like Sounds Like Something I’d Do, Hating Everything She Tries On, and Over Drinkin’, Under Thinkin’ kept the energy sky-high, with the crowd dancing throughout. A well-earned standing ovation capped off a set that showed just how far he’s come.

 

And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for — country royalty Brooks & Dunn. Before they even stepped on stage, the arena was electric, with their introduction lighting up the screens and sending anticipation through the roof. As they finally appeared, greeted by a packed and roaring O2, it was clear this would be something special.

 

From the very first note, their commanding stage presence took over. The duo shared stories and jokes, reflecting on their early days and poking fun at their journey together, adding a personal touch to an already huge performance. Hit after hit followed — My Maria, Red Dirt Road, Brand New Man, and Boot Scootin’ Boogie — each one met with deafening singalongs.

 

A truly magical moment came when Darius Rucker joined them on stage for Neon Moon, as thousands of phone lights lit up the arena, turning the O2 into a sea of stars. It was one of those spine-tingling moments that define a festival.

 

Throughout the set, Brooks & Dunn seemed genuinely taken aback by the crowd, with the London audience singing every word right back at them. It was a powerful reminder of their legacy and influence, proving exactly why they remain one of the greatest duos in country music history.

 

As the final notes rang out, day three — and C2C London as a whole — closed on an incredible high. A night filled with energy, emotion, and unforgettable performances, and one that no country music fan in attendance will forget anytime soon. Hats off to Brooks & Dunn and everyone involved — this was truly one for the ages.

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