Chris Tungseth on stage during Saturday’s “Hometown Hero” concert at Kirkbride Park in Fergus Falls | Photos by Robert Wanek Jr.
Following a marvelous run to the “Top 5” of ABC’s American Idol, Chris Tungseth returned to his hometown of Fergus Falls on Saturday for a homecoming parade and concert.
The 27-year-old artist entered the parade on a Harley Davidson, cruising through a downtown Fergus Falls that was packed to the brim with family, friends and fans. The 2 p.m. parade stretched nearly an hour, setting the stage for a massive 6 p.m. concert at Kirkbride Park.
The “Hometown Hero” concert drew a crowd of several thousand, looking more like a full-fledged festival than a one-man homecoming show. Tungseth played some original works, while mixing in classics like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver, “Yellow” by Coldplay, and “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls.
The faith-centered singer/songwriter/guitarist got the crowd’s attention when he removed his jacket to show off a vintage Minnesota Vikings Dante Culpepper jersey for the remainder of the set, frequently pausing to thank Jesus and the fans in attendance.
Fergus Falls unveiled a new city sign for its community of 14,116 residents, honoring Tungseth’s musical journey with the text “Home of American Idol contestant Chris Tungseth.”
“From local stages to national television, Chris has represented our community with talent, humility, and heart,” Fergus Falls Mayor Anthony Hicks said. “No matter where this journey takes him next, Fergus Falls will always be proud to call him one of our own.”
Hicks came on stage to proclaim May 16 as “Chris Tungseth Day,” also handing the local artist a golden microphone adorned with the words “American Idol.”
Tungseth is taking his talents to Nashville on June 3 for a concert alongside fellow American Idol contestants at 6th & Peabody.
