September 17, 2025 – Steelhouse – Omaha, NE
Steelhouse in Omaha was the perfect setting for an amazing night of music on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, because Mat Kearney brought his tour to town, and it ended up being a show to remember.
The opener was Steinza, and let me tell you, he was absolutely phenomenal. Just him and his friend on a second guitar, no frills — no crazy lighting, no pyro — just Steinza’s voice filling the room, and the crowd was completely held. Steinza, aka Zachary Stein, is a Virginia Beach-born singer-songwriter with a soulful style; I heard he signed a publishing deal with BMG recently, which is a big move. He’s signed with Listen To The Kids / Santa Anna Records, preparing a major label debut EP called Visions Of You. He’s been making steady waves, and right now with over 310 thousand monthly listeners on Spotify, he’s gaining serious momentum. His latest single “bible bluff” is definitely worth checking out — the emotion and passion are there, and it feels like he’s right on the cusp of becoming a bigger name. Phenomenal way to kick off the show.
After a short intermission, Mat Kearney took the stage. Kearney’s been around long enough to build a real catalog, but he still sounds fresh. He first got widespread attention with Nothing Left to Lose (2006), which was his major-label debut, and tracks from that album have been used in lots of TV shows. He’s got a respectful fusion of acoustic, folk-pop, soft rock, even bits of spoken word and hip-hop in some songs. He’s had several hits on the Adult Top 40 chart. His song “Nothing Left to Lose” was certified and did well on the radio; “Closer to Love” from City of Black & White grabbed a lot of attention, etc.
Him interacting with the crowd was a highlight — telling stories, bantering, bringing people in, making the room feel connected. He played all his hits and even sneaked in a few deep cuts for fans who know his work more intimately. With 778 thousand monthly Spotify listeners, you can tell he’s got a large following, but live he still gives it an intimate feel. His latest album Mat Kearney (still drowning in nostalgia) is worth adding to your playlist if you haven’t already.
Overall, what made it great was the mix of all ages in the audience, the genuine vibe, and the way both Steinza and Mat built momentum across the night. If you ever get the chance to see either of these guys live, don’t pass it up — nights like that are rare, full of good music and good energy.
Steinza
Mat Kearney
