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Karley Scott Collins Shines as Opening Act at Keith Urban’s Ruoff Music Center Concert: A Star on the Rise

By on June 30, 2025

The summer heat was already climbing into the mid-80s when Karley Scott Collins stepped onto the Ruoff Music Center stage on June 28, 2025. It was 7:00 PM, and the Noblesville, Indiana, amphitheater buzzed with nearly 24,000 fans. Yet, for a moment, it felt like Karley held every single one in the palm of her hand. Her denim-clad figure radiated excitement, her voice a blend of country soul and rock edge. As the first of three opening acts for Keith Urban’s High and Alive World Tour, she set a warm, inviting tone for the night. However, compared to the high-octane performances that followed, her set was quieter, more intimate, but no less captivating.

File Photo: Karley Scott Collins and band perform as an opening act for Keith Urban in Noblesville, Indiana on June 28, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Karley kicked things off with an upbeat vibe, her grin wide as she told the crowd she was “so excited” to open for Keith Urban. Her third song, a stunning cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain,” was a highlight. It was her favorite, she shared, and the crowd felt it—her voice soared, weaving classic rock into her country roots. Then, she invited fans to meet her after her set, a gesture that showed her genuine warmth. As a result, dozens lined up later, eager for a handshake or a quick chat. She closed by walking the stage’s edge, shaking hands and asking for claps and sing-alongs, her energy pulling the audience in. Although her performance was subdued compared to the night’s later acts, her voice—clear, soulful, and strong—left no doubt she belonged on that stage.

Who Is Karley Scott Collins?

Karley Scott Collins, born on December 14, 1999, in Florida, is a rising country artist whose music blends sharp lyrics with a rock-infused sound. Growing up in a small town, she was surrounded by classic rock and country legends—Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, and Guns N’ Roses were her soundtrack. At age 12, she picked up a guitar, sparked by a love for storytelling through music. Consequently, she moved to Nashville as a teen, chasing her dream of becoming a country star. Her early years in Music City were spent honing her craft, writing songs, and playing small gigs, putting in the work.

File Photo: Karley Scott Collins and band perform as an opening act for Keith Urban in Noblesville, Indiana on June 28, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Bands and Collaborations

Karley’s career has largely been a solo venture, though she’s worked with various Nashville session players for her recordings. Currently, she doesn’t have a fixed touring band, relying instead on a rotating lineup of musicians for live shows. For the Ruoff performance, she was backed by a tight four-piece band—guitar, bass, drums, and keys—who gave her songs a polished yet raw edge. While she hasn’t been part of any formal bands, her collaborations with songwriters in Nashville have shaped her sound. Notably, she’s co-written with hitmakers like Shane McAnally, though specific bandmate details for her 2025 tour remain sparse.

Awards and Milestones

Karley is still early in her career, so major awards like Grammys or CMA honors haven’t come her way yet. However, she’s building momentum. Her singles have garnered millions of streams, with her 2023 EP Write One marking her as a talent to watch. Industry insiders, including NPR Music, have praised her “wise-beyond-her-years” songwriting. While she hasn’t hit the RIAA certification mark yet, her growing fanbase and tour slots with artists like Keith Urban signal she’s on the cusp of bigger recognition.

File Photo: Karley Scott Collins and band perform as an opening act for Keith Urban in Noblesville, Indiana on June 28, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Biggest Songs

Karley’s catalog is growing, but a few tracks stand out for their radio play and streaming success. Here are two of her biggest:

  • “Heavenly”: A heartfelt ballad about love and loss, co-written by Karley Scott Collins and Shane McAnally, released in 2022.
  • “Write One”: An introspective anthem from her 2023 EP, co-written by Karley Scott Collins and Josh Osborne, gaining traction on country radio.

Controversies

Karley has largely avoided controversy, a rarity in today’s music scene. Her focus remains on her craft, with no public feuds, legal issues, or scandals tied to her name. This clean slate lets her connect with fans through authenticity, not drama. As a result, her reputation as a grounded artist continues to grow, especially among younger country listeners who vibe with her relatable lyrics.

A Star in the Making

Back at Ruoff, Karley’s set was a glimpse of a star finding her footing. Her denim outfit sparkled under the stage lights, and her cover of “The Chain” showed her range. Yet, it was her fan interactions that stole the show. She didn’t just perform—she connected. After her set, she kept her promise, meeting fans near the merch stand. Meanwhile, the crowd’s energy grew as Alana Springsteen’s set loomed, but Karley’s warmth lingered.

Although her performance was the quietest of the night, it had a charm all its own. Her voice, a mix of grit and grace, carried through the humid air. Moreover, her decision to cover a classic rock staple showed her roots run deep. She’s a storyteller with a guitar, ready to carve her name alongside the genre’s greats. As she left the stage, waving to the sea of fans, it was clear: Karley Scott Collins is a name we’ll hear again.

There are three other acts from this show, including Keith Urban. Here are the links:

Alana Springsteen Brings High-Energy Charm to Keith Urban’s Ruoff Music Center Concert
Chase Matthew Ignites the Party at Keith Urban’s Ruoff Music Center Concert
Keith Urban Delivers a Barn-Burning Show at Ruoff Music Center: A Night of Heart and Hustle

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