Country Roads Connection: Brad Paisley and the BYU Fans

Country Roads Connection: Brad Paisley and the BYU Fans

West Virginia Mountaineers fans have a special tradition of singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” after games, connecting them to their home state. Brad Paisley, a native of West Virginia, will headline Stadium of Fire at LaVell Edwards Stadium on July 4. His father, Doug Paisley, has a friendly connection with BYU fans and has become a fan of the Cougars over the years.

During a game between BYU and West Virginia in 2016, Doug Paisley introduced himself to BYUtv’s Blaine Fowler and Dave McCann. The Paisleys had interactions with BYU fans while living in West Virginia, including their neighbors, the Livingstons. Despite storms in Utah, Brad Paisley’s concert was well-received by the loyal crowd.

Doug Paisley received a BYU shirt from Dave McCann before a concert in Utah, which he still has and occasionally wears. He has become a fan of BYU, especially appreciating their style of play and coaching. The Cougars and Mountaineers have faced off as conference foes since BYU joined the Big 12 in 2023.

Brad Paisley’s upcoming tour will take him to several European countries before his Stadium of Fire performance in Provo. The Paisleys, known for their patriotism, will help celebrate America’s 250th birthday at the event. While it’s uncertain if Doug will wear the BYU shirt, the connection between West Virginia and BYU through the Paisleys and the fans will make him feel at home again on those country roads.