Introduction:
A Surprise Rescue: Donny and Chris Osmond Step In to Save Draper Days Concert
Sometimes the best stories are the ones no one expects—moments when challenges strike at the last minute, only to be transformed into unforgettable experiences. That’s exactly what happened at the Draper Days concert last Saturday night, when a sudden crisis threatened to derail the event. Yet in true show-business fashion, the spotlight found its heroes: Donny Osmond and his son, rising artist Chris Osmond.
The evening had originally been set with country star Collin Raye headlining the stage. However, just two days before the show, Raye contacted organizers with unfortunate news—he had tested positive for COVID-19 and would be unable to perform. With thousands of attendees eagerly anticipating the Saturday night concert, the scramble to find a replacement began.
Chris Osmond had already been scheduled as the warm-up act, but the unexpected cancellation meant the entire program suddenly needed reinforcements. Organizers reached out to locate a backup headliner, and at the same time, asked Chris to expand his set. What happened next was a combination of urgency, talent, and family teamwork. With the help of his father—legendary entertainer Donny Osmond—Chris stepped up to meet the moment.
It wasn’t easy. In fact, behind the scenes, almost everything that could go wrong seemed to go wrong. The intense summer heat created technical complications, from equipment malfunctions to monitor failures and sound issues. Yet, as Chris would later share, having Donny by his side made all the difference. Donny brought with him not only his star power, but six decades of professional experience—experience dealing with live-show surprises, production hiccups, and high-pressure moments.
“Having my dad there was really a saving grace,” Chris reflected. “Anything that could have gone wrong went wrong. The heat was intense, equipment was failing, monitors were shutting down—but it became the perfect training ground. It was like a real-time masterclass in performing under fire.”
Despite the chaos backstage, the performance itself told a different story. Chris delivered a crowd-pleasing show, showcasing tracks from his newest album and winning the audience over with his energy and resilience. Donny joined him onstage for a few numbers, including a nostalgic fan favorite—“Puppy Love.” The duet not only delighted longtime fans, but also marked a meaningful milestone for father and son, who rarely get the chance to perform together.
The crowd’s reaction said it all: cheers, applause, and an outpouring of appreciation for the Osmonds’ ability to turn a near-disaster into a night to remember. What could have been a disappointing cancellation instead became a story of dedication, family support, and the timeless magic of live performance.
And for fans eager to hear more from Chris, there’s even better news—he has a brand-new single releasing this Monday. If Draper Days was any indication, this rising artist is headed for an exciting new chapter.