Photos By: Tom Rentz
MercyMe Concert Review – Wright State University Nutter Center, Dayton, OH
The MercyMe concert at the Wright State University Nutter Center in Dayton, OH, was an unforgettable night of worship, energy, and powerful performances. With Sam Wesley opening the show, followed by Zach Williams as direct support, the evening built up to an incredible headlining set by MercyMe that had the crowd engaged in every moment.
Opening Act: Sam Wesley
The night kicked off with Sam Wesley, setting the tone with his heartfelt and inspiring set. He performed four songs:
- Carry On
- Holding On To Me
- Greater Than All I Know
- I'm On All Of It
Wesley’s passionate delivery and strong vocals resonated with the audience, creating an atmosphere of praise and anticipation for what was to come. His message of faith and perseverance was well received, and he left the stage having made a strong impression on the audience.
Direct Support: Zach Williams
Zach Williams took the stage next and immediately commanded the crowd’s attention with his soulful voice and engaging presence. His nine-song setlist featured some of his biggest hits:
- Stand My Ground
- Less Like Me
- Old Church Choir
- Rescue Story
- Friend In High Places
- Fear Is A Liar
- Jesus Loves
- There Was Jesus (Performed with Madison)
- Chain Breaker
From the anthemic Old Church Choir to the deeply moving There Was Jesus, Williams’ performance was electric. The audience sang along with every word, and his powerful storytelling through song reinforced messages of hope and redemption. His performance of Chain Breaker brought the set to a triumphant close, leaving the crowd energized for the main event.
Headliner: MercyMe
When MercyMe took the stage, the energy in the Nutter Center reached new heights. Their setlist was a perfect mix of classic hits and new material, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.
- 40 / Then Christ Came (U2 Cover)
- Best News Ever
- On Our Way (With Sam Wesley)
- Flawless
- Grace Got You
- Almost Home
- To Not Worship You
- Always Only Jesus
- Greater (Acoustic)
- Dear Younger Me (Acoustic)
- Word Of God Speak (Acoustic)
- The Moment (Acoustic)
- Oh Death
- Say I Won't
- Because He Lives (Gaither Vocal Band Cover) (Acapella)
- Even If / Graves Into Gardens
- Because He Lives (Gaither Vocal Band Cover) (Reprise)
- Amazing Grace (Acapella)
- I Can Only Imagine
- Happy Dance
Starting the show with the U2-inspired 40 / Then Christ Came, MercyMe wasted no time in getting the crowd engaged. From there, they moved seamlessly through their repertoire, delivering high-energy moments with songs like Best News Ever and Grace Got You, as well as more intimate, reflective moments with their acoustic segment featuring Greater, Dear Younger Me, and Word Of God Speak.
A highlight of the night was the acapella rendition of Because He Lives, which hushed the entire arena as voices blended in harmonious worship. I Can Only Imagine, arguably MercyMe’s most iconic song, was a deeply moving moment as the entire crowd joined in, singing every word with emotion. The show concluded on a joyous note with Happy Dance, leaving everyone uplifted.

Final Thoughts
The MercyMe concert at the Nutter Center was an epic night of faith-filled music and unity. The combination of Sam Wesley’s uplifting opening set, Zach Williams’ powerhouse performance, and MercyMe’s inspiring headlining act made for an unforgettable experience. The crowd was engaged in every song, singing along, worshiping, and celebrating together.
This was more than just a concert—it was a night of connection, encouragement, and praise. For those in attendance, it was a powerful reminder of the impact music can have in bringing people closer to their faith.
Photos By: Tom Rentz
