Garth Brooks broke a long-standing attendance record at the Civic Arena this week by selling out six shows. Before drawing over 100,000 people to the country-rock shows, Neil Diamond had held the record for consecutive performances by attracting 35,000 fans.

Brooks' World Tour '97 attendance had already topped the 3 million mark in September while performing in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The Country Music Association's Performer of the Year lived up to his reputation by performing nearly 2 1/2 hours each night he was in Pittsburgh. Enthusiastic crowds were encouraged to sing along on such hits as Friends in Low Places, The River, and The Thunder Rolls because the shows were being recorded for a future release of a live CD.

During his stay in Pittsburgh, Brooks had a chance to meet with members of his favorite football team during a Steelers practice at Three Rivers Stadium. During the practice, the team presented him with a customized jersey with his name and the number "1" on the back. Brooks wore the shirt at the Friday night concert and later presented it to the band's drummer, a Beaver Falls native.

Officials say the show generated millions of dollars for the local economy.

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