Matthew and Gunnar Nelson brought their father’s music and memories back to Niagara Falls on Wednesday, October 14, with Ricky Nelson Remembered at the Avalon Theatre inside Fallsview Casino Resort.
The show was the first of eight performances over five days, running through October 18. It also marked the twin brothers’ sixth visit to the intimate theatre, having previously performed there in 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020 and 2023. The Avalon Theatre holds a special place in the brothers’ hearts, and they have called it their favourite place to perform Ricky Nelson Remembered.
Ricky Nelson Remembered is more than just a concert. It’s a multimedia tribute to their father, Ricky Nelson, one of rock and roll’s first teen idols. Through music, old family photos, video clips and personal stories, Matthew and Gunnar took the audience on a trip through their family’s rich history.
Throughout the afternoon, the brothers shared stories about growing up in the famous Nelson family. Their father first found fame on the television series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which starred their grandparents, Ozzie and Harriet Nelson. Ricky later became a major recording star with a long list of hits.
The show opened with “Stood Up,” followed by early favourites “Poor Little Fool,” “My Babe” and “Believe What You Say.” The brothers kept the hits coming with “It’s Late,” “Teenage Idol” and “It’s Up to You.”
One of the nice things about the show was hearing the stories behind the music. Matthew and Gunnar spoke about their father and family between songs, adding a personal touch that made the afternoon feel like more than a typical tribute concert.
The setlist included many of Ricky’s best-known songs, including “Lonesome Town,” “Fools Rush In,” “Travelin’ Man” and “Hello Mary Lou.” There were also a few lesser-known tracks, such as “Sweeter Than You,” “Easy to Be Free” and “Love Is Somethin’ You Can’t Buy.”
The brothers also took time to celebrate their own music career. Fans of their rock band Nelson were treated to their 1990 chart-topping hit “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection.” It was a nice reminder that the brothers have enjoyed plenty of success in their own right.
Joining Matthew and Gunnar onstage were drummer David Keith and Brian St. Peters, who handled pedal steel, baritone and electric guitar. The steel guitar was an important part of Ricky Nelson’s later country-rock sound, and its inclusion helped bring that part of his music to life.
Another highlight was “Garden Party,” one of Ricky’s biggest later hits. Released in 1972, the song was written after he received a poor response while performing newer material at a rock and roll revival concert. Its message about staying true to yourself remains just as meaningful today.
The Nelson brothers saved one of the afternoon’s most touching moments for the very end.
For their final song, they performed Bobby Darin’s “Dream Lover” while video footage of their father played behind them. The brothers sang along with Ricky on the screen, creating a special moment that brought the past and present together. It was a fitting way to end a show dedicated to keeping their father’s music alive.
What makes Ricky Nelson Remembered special is the personal connection Matthew and Gunnar bring to the stage. They’re not simply performing their father’s hits. They’re sharing stories about someone they loved and giving fans a closer look at the man behind the music.
With its mix of classic songs, family memories and rare footage, the show offers something for longtime Ricky Nelson fans and those discovering his music for the first time.
More performances of Ricky Nelson Remembered continue at the Avalon Theatre through Sunday, October 18, 2026. The remaining shows are Saturday, October 17, at 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 18, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the Fallsview Casino Resort website.
Connect with Matthew and Gunnar Nelson online: Ricky Nelson Remembered | Nelson Band | NelsonTwins.com | Instagram
All photos by Joel Naphin
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