By Emma King, Staff Writer
Brad Paisley will be visiting Baylor’s campus and performing a free concert on Sept. 11, the night before Baylor football kicks off its first home game against Lamar University.
Thanks to Baylor’s partnership with IMG College sports, a marketing company employed to manage McLane Stadium, Paisley is playing the show as a part of his Country Nation College Tour presented by Zaxby’s.
Brian George, general manager of the IMG and Baylor partnership, said the concert will take place on Fountain Mall for the 2015 Traditions Rally.
“WME-IMG appreciates the partnership with Baylor University and we are excited to show the power of WME-IMG by bringing Brad Paisley to our students,” George said.
George said there will be an area designated for students, but he recommended that everyone arrive early.
The stage will be set up in front of the ongoing Fountain Mall construction and bleachers will be placed on the opposite end by Moody Memorial Library for overflow. Fountain Mall will be fenced off and there will be security checkpoints to gain entry. Food trucks will be stationed between the Mars McLean Science and Sid Richardson buildings.
According to a press release from Paisley’s representation, The Raging Idiots will be opening for Paisley. The duo includes Bobby Bones, host of the Bobby Bones Show, and Eddie Garcia, the show’s producer.
The title of the entire college tour is based on Paisley’s new single “County Nation” from his newest hit album, Moonshine in the Truck. The single, a celebration of the blue-collar spirit and America’s passion for sports, is slated for on-air radio release by September 14, according to the press release.
“Getting Brad Paisley to come is cool and it’s free,” said Waco junior Daniel Dorminy. “Talk about a draw to Baylor University.”
Other locations on Paisley’s “Country Nation College Tour presented by Zaxby’s” include IMG College partners Virginia Tech, The University of Texas and The University of Arkansas.
