“Gangster Granny” STUNS Country Music Fans By Crowd Surfing At 99 During Brantley Gilbert Concert
Nobody at Rock the Country in Bellville, Texas expected to witness history being made… but that’s exactly what happened Saturday night.
During Brantley Gilbert’s explosive performance, the crowd suddenly paused for a moment nobody will ever forget. Out walked 99-year-old internet sensation Pauline Kana — better known online as “Gangster Granny” — ready to attempt something absolutely unbelievable.
And yes… she actually did it.
With thousands of fans screaming in excitement, Brantley Gilbert announced that Granny was about to become the OLDEST woman ever to crowd surf. Seconds later, she was lifted into the air on a cushioned board as fans carefully carried her above the crowd while Gilbert performed “Son of the Dirty South.” 🎸🔥
The audience erupted.
Phones filled the air. People screamed, laughed, and cried as the nearly 100-year-old grandmother floated across the massive Texas crowd with a huge smile on her face.
When she returned to the stage, Granny gave the audience a thumbs up like a total rockstar — proving age really is just a number.
View this post on Instagram
The unforgettable moment happened during the opening weekend of Rock the Country, the patriotic country music festival featuring stars like Jason Aldean, Kid Rock, Ella Langley, Diamond Rio, and Brantley Gilbert. The 2026 tour celebrates America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and calls itself “a festival for the people.”
But somehow, it was a 99-year-old grandmother who completely stole the show.
For those unfamiliar with “Gangster Granny,” Pauline Kana first went viral years ago alongside her grandson Ross Smith through hilarious videos online. What started on Vine turned into internet fame across TikTok and Instagram, where the duo now has nearly 30 million followers combined.
Fans everywhere adore Granny for her fearless attitude, humor, and energy that most people half her age can’t even match.
@rosssmith If your deadlift is weak, Granny’s taking your spot—she didn’t come to @Crunch Fitness to wait around #fitness ♬ how GREAT I am by Aj Greene – AJ📺
In a past interview, she shared:
“It is very surreal, but I feel happy knowing that this time I’ve spent with my grandson creating silly videos has inspired and encouraged people to laugh and connect with their elders.”
And after this weekend… the internet loves her even more. ❤️
Related Posts
About The Author
John Simmon
John Simmon is a music journalist and entertainment writer with a passion for country music culture, artist stories, and the moments that happen off the stage. He has been following the country music scene for over a decade, covering everything from chart-breaking newcomers to the legends who shaped the genre. John believes the best stories in country music aren't always found in the music, they're found in the lives behind it.
