Review and photos by Katrina Gelety

There was something extra special about Knox bringing his Midwest Best Tour to KEMBA! Live in Columbus on October 15, 2026. Between a setlist full of fan favorites and a heartfelt reminder of why he does what he does, the night felt like a homecoming in more ways than one.

The last time I saw Knox live was in 2023, when he opened for the band Nightly at Newport Music Hall. Since then, his catalog has grown, his fanbase has continued to expand, and his live show has evolved into something worth celebrating. Getting to see him again, this time with a setlist packed with songs from both My Midwest Best and Going, Going, Gone, meant I got to hear many songs live for the very first time. And if the crowd’s energy was any indication, I wasn’t the only one having a night to remember.

For Knox, the Columbus stop carried a particularly meaningful connection. KEMBA! Live was where he attended his very first concert seeing Fall Out Boy. Standing on that same stage years later, headlining his own tour, was a full-circle moment that made the evening feel even more poignant.

At one point in the show, Knox asked how many people were attending their first show of his. Hands shot up all around the venue, a reminder of just how many listeners have found their way to his music as of late. But whether it was someone’s first show or if they were a returning fan, the crowd quickly proved they knew how to show up. “Go For Broke” was a clear standout, with the audience giving the song an enthusiastic response by shouting every word.

Before launching into “Long Story Short,” Knox made sure to tell the little ones in the audience to “plug their ears” while he spoke the intro to the song – if you know, you know. It was a cute moment that added a little humor to the night. He then asked the crowd, “Can I tell you guys a story real quick?” before launching straight into “Voicemail,” giving fans a seamless transition into the narrative song. Elsewhere in the set, he revisited some older favorites, including a “Time Machine” intro which led into “Porch Lights.”

At one point, a fan tossed a Luigi hat onto the stage, and Knox didn’t hesitate to put it on for his performance of “Treadmill.” The rest of the band then joined in, with all four musicians sporting Mario and Luigi hats. It was ridiculous in the best possible way, turning an already animated performance into a full-band video game moment. It’s hard to imagine a better example of the playful, unpredictable atmosphere that made this night with Knox so much fun.

“Pick Your Poison” brought another unforgettable moment at the end of the show when Knox stepped onto the barricade to sing directly to the crowd. The distance between artist and audience seemed to disappear as fans sang the lyrics back just inches away. It was the kind of interaction that makes a concert feel personal, even in a packed venue. The energy was electric from the stage to the back of the room, with fans singing along, dancing, and even a little girl perched on someone’s shoulders giving it her all.

The evening also included a birthday celebration for band member Cam Becker, who happens to be from Columbus. The crowd joined in to sing “Happy Birthday” as Becker was celebrated with a cake and blowing out candles.

As the night went on, it became increasingly clear how much the experience meant to Knox. He called it one of the greatest shows he has ever played. There was a sense that he understood the significance of performing in the venue where his musical journey began, surrounded by fans who helped him get to this point. Knox shared just how unbelievable it was to have a job like his, crediting the fans for making it possible. He thanked the crowd and promised to keep touring and making music as long as fans will let him.

Three years after I last saw him open for Nightly at Newport Music Hall, seeing Knox command the stage at KEMBA! Live felt like a reminder of just how much can change in a few years. The songs have reached more people, the crowds have grown, and the connection between Knox and his fans appears stronger than ever.

If you have the opportunity to catch the Midwest Best Tour or to see Knox live, I think you should make every effort to attend, and I cannot wait for the next time I get to be at one of his shows. You can check out photos I took at the show in the gallery below!