Brad Paisley performs at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, in Alpharetta, Ga.
In the pre-coronavirus world, Brad Paisley would have been kicking off his summer tour this weekend.
Instead, he’s taking his show to the Internet. But unlike the virtual acoustic concerts that have flooded the digital space since sheltering in place began two months ago, he is putting on a full-production arena show with his band. The only thing missing will be a live audience.
“I know that we all miss a lot of things. One of the things we miss would be live concerts,” Paisley says in a video posted to his Instagram that takes fans behind the scenes to rehearsal at The Steel Mill, a production facility in Nashville.
As the video stresses, all CDC guidelines for social distancing will be observed and through rehearsal and the night of show, temperatures are taken upon arrival, with crew and band wearing masks and gloves. A minimal crew worked with staggered load-in times with zones marked off for each person. A medic is on hand. Paisley’s excitement is evident when he walked into the rehearsal space. “Oh man, look at this! I’ve missed this so much,” he exclaims.
“What you will see with Brad’s show is his entire arena tour,” says Scott Scovill, head of Moo TV, which handles Paisley’s production. “And I know it’s been really cool to see people in their living rooms with their guitar in their home doing a lot of these home broadcasts that they’ve done. I think they’re Alesome, but there’s an appetite for something bigger.” This is believed to be the first full, plugged-in production since the shutdown started.
Sponsored by Bud Light Seltzer, the concert will stream on @bradpaisley, @ladyantebellum and @budlight social platforms Friday (May 15) at 9 p.m. EST. Paisley is expected to play between 60 and 90 minutes.
“I’m anxious to get back with my band, it’s been a long nine weeks since the last time we played and I love that my friends from Bud Light have invited us to get back together for the Bud Light Seltzer Sessions, with proper social distancing, of course.” Paisley said in a statement. “It’s going to be a fun night of music and fan interaction. So if you want to see our tour – here’s your chance. I can’t wait!”
Lady Antebellum will open the show.
For now the concert is a one-off.