Post Malone & Co. Deliver Rousing Performances at San Diego’s Wild Horses Festival

The 4th Annual Wild Horses Festival at San Diego’s Petco Park herded together country music fans for a night filled with toe-tappin’ tunes, heartfelt ballads, and show-stopping performances. From the grit of outlaw Americana to a pop superstar-turned-cowboy, this festival delivered more hits than a honky-tonk jukebox. And while every act shined, Post Malone’s headline set turned heads—and hearts—proving he’s ready to ride with the best in the genre.

Dan Spencer opened the festival with a set filled with songs about love, life, and everything in between, had the crowd swaying to every melody. Tracks like “Immaterial” and “Tennessee Buddha” felt like a soundtrack to long summer nights on the open road, while his rich, soulful voice captured the essence of classic country storytelling. It was clear from the start that Spencer is a true artist with a genuine passion for the music he creates.

Vincent Neil Emerson continued the night with a performance as authentic as cowboy boots and prairie skies. His sset was steeped in raw emotion, taking the crowd on a journey through love, loss, and life on the open road. Tracks like “High on Gettin’ By” felt like pages ripped from an old journal, and his storytelling left fans hanging on every note.

Riding in next was Zach Top, whose bluegrass-infused country sound had the crowd clapping along before the first chorus hit. With songs like “Sounds Like the Radio” and “I Never Lie”, Top combined lightning-fast picking with an effortless charm that drew cheers from the stands. His playful energy and classic country charm were the perfect recipe to get the audience moving. Zach didn’t just perform —he threw a boot-stompin’ party that fans won’t soon forget.

The larger-than-life Paul Cauthen brought his signature swagger and soulful baritone to the stage, delivering a performance as bold as a sunrise on the prairie. With hits like “Cocaine Country Dancing” and “Country as F***” he had the crowd hootin’ and hollerin’ in no time. Cauthen’s commanding presence and flamboyant dancing were as big as his voice, making his set a standout moment of the festival. By the time he tipped his hat and walked offstage, it was clear the “Big Velvet” had left his mark.

Then came the man everyone had been waiting for: Post Malone, country music’s newest cowboy. From the moment he strolled onstage, Malone had the crowd eating out of his hand. Opening with “Wrong Ones”, he wove together hits from his pop catalog with tracks from his country-inspired album F-1 Trillion. Fans swayed to the heartfelt lyrics of “Circles” and sang along to the playful twang of “Guy For That” Post’s undeniable charisma and genuine connection with the crowd made every moment feel like a front-porch jam session with an old friend. Zach Top came out to sing a cover of “Don’t Let Our Love Start Slippin’ Away“, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

As the night rolled on, Post Malone fully embraced the San Diego crowd, performing mega hits like “White Iverson” and even bringing a fan onstage to play guitar for “Stay”. Pyrotechnics and fireworks were frequently used throughout the set, adding layers to the production and making the finale of the festival one to remember.

Wild Horses Festival 2024 lassoed fans with a celebration of everything that makes country music special: heartfelt stories, infectious energy, and the ability to bring people together. With a lineup that brought fresh energy to the genre and Post Malone’s headlining performance, this year’s festival proved that country music is wide open for those brave enough to chase their dreams down its dusty trails. Giddy up, y’all—this one’s going in the history books! Make sure you mark your calendar for 2025!

Photos & Review by Phil Tani