Tungseth performing at Kirkrbride Park | Photo by Robert Wanek Jr.
Fergus Falls native and American Idol “Top 5” finalist Chris Tungseth has booked his first major supporting gig, not far from his hometown, at The Lights in West Fargo.
Tungseth is taking the stage June 27 as direct support for Brantley Gilbert at the Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights. He will open for Gilbert on the MIDCO Stage.
Gilbert, a country artist from Georgia, has won eight major country music awards throughout his career. He burst onto the scene in 2011 by winning “New Male Vocalist of the Year” at the CMA Awards. He was nominated for “Top Country Artist” and “Top Country Album” at the 2015 Billboard Music Awards.
Tungseth, who began his music career in 2026 by becoming the first Minnesotan to make the “Top 5” on ABC’s American Idol, played an outdoor concert for several thousand fans May 16 at Kirkbride Park in Fergus Falls. He told reporters following the show that he plans to move to Nashville to pursue his music dreams.
It’s not the first time Tungseth has shared the stage with an established star. Following his departure from American Idol, the show brought him back for its finale to perform a duet with hip hop icon Nelly. The duo performed “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line as a special surprise on the final episode.
