I was long over due for a country get-a-way from all the chaotic stresses of the home. I was lucky enough to attend the “American Saturday Night Tour” with Brad Paisley on January 21st with my mother-in-law. Finally, I was able to let go of all that built up financial grief that the holiday’s, along with a new marriage, can come with, and enjoy a great show.

After anxiously waiting in the crowded line, we shuffled in, and sat down in our little blue seats, prepared for a nice concert evening. After scanning the arena we started to fear, since it was 7:30pm and half the place was empty. We were hoping that more people would show, since the crowd is an important ingredient to a great concert. As time slowly ticked on and seats began filling in, minute by the minute, and before we knew it the whole arena was packed. First up on stage was Justin Moore. I had only heard a few of his songs, but learned to really appreciate him as he sang more and more through out his performance. Not too shabby for someone I had not heard much about. He was energetic, and also had a great down to earth personality!

The real crowd warmer was special guest Miranda Lambert, who’s true home is definitely the south. There’s no better way to feel right at home, then when you admit your a whiskey drinking, deer hunting gal. Following her proclaimation, the crowd showed their support with applause and screams. To top off the cake, her closing song blew away the crowd when she introduced surprise guest Blake Shelton to the stage to sing a duet with her. Everyone I could see (and myself) were overwhelmed with excitement! I had never seen so many flashes of cameras in my life! What a total surprise and great way to get the crowd on their feet for Mr. Brad Paisley.

Ah, Brad Paisley, a man of many great songs! Bravo, and hats off for an outstanding performance, if I do say so myself. We were lucky to get the whole package: fancy lights, great videos, a humorous and welcoming Brad, and an awesome show performance! There was never a dull moment with his amazing show. A video stream in the background made for an awesome visual performance, not to mention his own personal touch of coming into the crowd! It was nice to see him right in front of me strumming his guitar. It was definitely one of my favorite moments of the night. When it was time to slow things down, he really knew how to contribute, and hit a soft spot in everyone’s heart. He dedicating a whole song to those who we’ve lost over the past years, which brought tears to my eyes. There’s nothing more beautiful than a tribute, a great artist, and those everlasting memories. I can honestly say attending the Brad Paisley concert was an amazing way to kick off this new year.

Guest Blogged by: Mitzi Bledsoe
Photography by: Matt Goins (unless stated otherwise)