Phil Vassar in Concert Oct. 28 at the Cole Auditorium

Oct. 14, 2025 – Country music singer and songwriter Phil Vassar will be in concert Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Cole Auditorium as he embarks on his “25 Years of Paradise” Tour.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of his breakout hit “Just Another Day in Paradise.” Ever since, Vassar has racked up chart-topping hits and numerous accolades, including performances in Europe, Australia and the White House, as well as memorable moments with country legends like Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson. But it’s the connection he builds with fans through live performances that remains the heart of his career.

“When I go on stage, the world fades away, and it’s just about having fun and connecting with the fans,” he said. 

This tour promises to energize audiences with both his timeless hits as well as covers of musical icons like Billy Joel and Elton John.

“It’s amazing to see people singing along who weren’t even born when these songs came out,” he said.

Vassar is no stranger to the Cole Auditorium. In 2017, he performed a Christmas show with Kellie Pickler. He was also slated to come back in 2020, but the show was eventually cancelled due to COVID.  

About the Country Music Artist

Vassar’s life has always been steeped in music. Raised in a home where his father sang and his two sisters spun everything from Motown to West Coast harmonies, his upbringing was a constant melody. The gospel and bluegrass influence of Lynchburg, Va.’s, unique geography further shaped his sound, while artists like Bruce Hornsby, the Statler Brothers, Billy Joel, Elton John, and Lionel Richie sculpted his melodic sensibilities. A true fan of rock legends like Queen, Boston and David Bowie, Vassar’s eclectic roots would lay the foundation for his remarkable career. 

Though he started on guitar, Vassar soon found his true voice at the piano. His deep connection to piano-driven storytelling and intricate melodies was immediate, despite lacking classical training. With tireless practice and an undeniable songwriting gift, he crafted a sound that blended heartfelt lyrics with irresistible hooks — appealing to fans across various genres. 

A life-altering heart attack in 2023 that nearly claimed his life reshaped Vassar’s outlook.

“You can’t outrun your genetics, but you can take care of yourself,” he said.

His recovery has prompted a shift toward a calmer, more grateful life.

“I’m way calmer now than I used to be. I’ve learned to enjoy the moment,” he said, now embracing life with renewed perspective. 

A prolific talent in Nashville, Vassar’s songwriting career blossomed in the mid-‘90s. He secured a publishing contract with EMI and penned hits for country stars like Collin Raye (“Little Red Rodeo”), Alan Jackson (“Right on the Money”), Tim McGraw (“My Next Thirty Years,” “For a Little While”), Jo Dee Messina (“Bye Bye,” “Alright”), and Blackhawk (“Postmarked Birmingham”). By 1998, Vassar had signed a record deal with Arista and was honored as ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in both 1999 and 2001. 

With nine albums to his name, two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards, and recognition as ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist, Vassar’s reign of chart-topping singles includes 10 No.1 hits and 27 Top 40 tracks. Standout songs like “Carlene,” “Six-Pack Summer,” and the enduring “Just Another Day in Paradise” showcase his signature style.

His songwriting, whether penned for himself or others, is deeply rooted in authenticity. The timeless connection in songs like “American Child” and “My Next Thirty Years” — written in less than 20 minutes on his 30th birthday — exemplifies his ability to craft stories that resonate.

“If you can write a cool lyric and pair it with a singable melody, that’s what elevates a song,” he said. 

Ticket Information

The concert on Oct. 28 at the Cole Auditorium will start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 to $55. They can be purchased online, in person at the Cole Box Office or by calling (910) 410-1691. The Box Office is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visit www.richmondcc.edu/showtickets to purchase tickets online.

This concert is part of the 2025-2026 Performing Arts Series. The Richmond County Tourism Development Authority is a sponsor for the series.

Other shows include:

• "Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol" – Thursday, Dec. 18
• Cirque-tacular: Shimmer – Saturday, Jan. 31
• Comedian Heather Land - Friday, Feb. 6
• “Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience” – Tuesday, April 14