For the Reporter

Special guest star JT Hodges opens for country music legend Toby Keith on Sept. 20 at the Washington State Fair.

The country crooners take the stage at 7:30 p.m.

Hodges, who considers himself a writer as much as an artist, released his self-titled debut album two years ago. His first three singles, “Goodbyes Made You Mine,” “Hunt You Down,” and “Sleepy Little Town” collectively sold more than 300,000 downloads. “Sleepy Little Town” spent two weeks at #1 on the Sirius/XM’s The Highway. The same year as releasing JT Hodges, Hodges was also nominated as a semi-finalist for New Artist of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Hodges has plans to release a new CD in the near future, which will offer a more reflective take on music, and expand into a whole new kind of Country Pop Rock blend. He also recently expanded his talents, starring in the 2013 Hallmark Channel movie, Finding Christmas.

Tickets are still available. Reserved seating runs from $40-$95 and includes Fair gate admission (a $12.50 value). Tickets can be purchased online at www.thefair.com, at (888) 559-3247, or in person at the Box Office. Gates for the performance will open at 6:30 p.m.