As previously mentioned, I’m not a big fan of modern country music, but even as a non-country fan I was entertained by Brad Paisley’s Saturday night show at the Yum! Center. Danielle Bradbery (who won the NBC's The Voice) and Chris Young (recent hit: Aw No) preceded Paisley onstage. Neither opening act blew my mind, but they warmed up the crowd for the main event.
Don’t let the stereotypes about country music fans fool you; most are quite civilized and respectful. They like their beer and hats and cowboy boots, but they’re a real good-time crowd. When Brad Paisley took the stage, the revelers were raring to go. This excitement could have been partially beer-infused, but the energy was palpable. There is no doubt that Brad Paisley plays a mean guitar with precision and downright bad-assery; the highlight of the show for me as his rendition of the Van Halen classic Hot for Teacher.
He played a full 23-song set list closing out with Alcohol. Alcohol, among others, is smartly written lyrically and like many of Paisley’s standbys, is just a fun jam. For me, it was sheer entertainment to watch the crowd’s reaction to Paisley. While I can’t say I’ve been fully converted, I’m certainly more open to modern country than I was.
Many thanks to the Yum! Center for their hospitality. This city boy was heartily entertained by Brad Paisley’s very country show.
Photos by Adam Creech. Penalty for thievery could include getting lassoed and hog-tied
