Newcomer Dillan Cate Set to Open for Joe Diffie in Hope Aug. 12

The annual Hope Watermelon Festival kicks off this weekend at Fair Park in Hope, Arkansas. The featured entertainer Joe Diffie will be performing at Hempstead Hall Saturday, Aug. 12, beginning at 8:30PM and one of the opening acts is newcomer Dillan Cate.

Royce Dillan Cate was born in Poplar Bluff, Missouri but raised in Northeast Arkansas in the small town of Piggott, Arkansas. Now residing in Jonesboro, Arkansas Cate is an Arkansas State grad, a dedicated Dallas Cowyboy fan, but nothing can compare to his love for music. Growing up listening to 90s country, Cate turned into a huge Garth Brooks fan, as a matter of fact he's covered a few Garth songs and sounds a lot like the superstar. But he credits his family for influencing him with all genres of music going as far back as the 50s. So if you ask him to play any type of music, more than likely he can do it. This versatile singer has been known to do everything from traditional country, new country and even southern rock.

According to his website, Cate has opened up for Grammy award winners Shenandoah and recently released a new original song "End of the Day," which is included on their brand new EP.

This rising star continues to grow his fan base on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In a world where country music has been dominating the charts, I've been watching some of his videos, and there's no doubt in my mind that Dillan Cate has a bright future ahead.

Don't miss your chance to see Dillan Cate and Rachel Hale this Saturday night with Joe Diffie at Hempstead Hall.