On October 14th, 2021, Xtream Arena opened in Coralville. Which artist was chosen to play the first-ever concert at the new facility? Country star Toby Keith. Fans from all over the state and Midwest crowded in for another stellar show from Toby. What no one that night could have ever guessed was that it would be the last time Toby ever played a show in the state of Iowa.

I had been fortunate enough to have seen Toby Keith numerous times in concert. Twice at the Great Jones County Fair in Monticello, and several other arena shows in cities like Moline and Des Moines. I could have gone to that show in Coralville. But it was a Thursday night and that Friday 3 a.m. alarm would come quick. So I chose not to go. A decision after yesterday's news of Toby Keith's passing that I quickly came to regret.

Julie James
Julie James
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Listen, I get it. No one in attendance that night could have ever known that Toby would be diagnosed with stomach cancer just a little over a year later. No one could have foreseen that due to his illness and treatments, his touring would come to an end. It makes Toby's final concerts late last year in Las Vegas that much more precious to those who were able to attend. You just never know when this time, might be the last time.

If you missed Toby Keith's final concert in Iowa like I did, you can check out a review from Bob James. No surprise, Toby knocked it out of the park, just like he did at every show he played.

Setlist Toby Keith, Xtream Arena, Coralville, Iowa - October 14, 2021

  1. Made in America
  2. God Love Her
  3. American Ride
  4. I Wanna Talk About Me
  5. Whiskey Girl
  6. Beer for My Horses
  7. Who's That Man / Wish I Didn't Know Now / He Ain't Worth Missing / Dream Walkin' / Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine On You
  8. Who's Your Daddy
  9. Red Solo Cup
  10. As Good as I Once Was
  11. I Love This Bar
  12. Should've Been a Cowboy
  13. Old School
  14. How Do You Like Me Know
  15. A Little Less Talk A Lot More Action
  16. American Soldier
  17. Happy Birthday America
  18. Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue
Julie James
Julie James
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2022 through 2015 Great Jones County Fair Concerts

A look back at the country shows in Monticello, Iowa.

The Highlander Hotel

2525 Highlander Plaza in Iowa City is home to The Highlander Hotel, a retro hotel with a unique history. After undergoing extensive renovations over the past several years, here's a peek at what it looks like now!

Gallery Credit: Courtlin

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