Brad Paisley Says Zoom Parties with Fans Inspired Him to Release New Single 'No I in Beer'
Brad Paisley is finding inspiration from his fans as he releases a new song related to the COVID-19 pandemic. He's also helping out in a more significant way.
On Monday, Brad Paisley did a virtual interview for the "Today Show," in which he spoke to host Hoda Kotb about his recent activities amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Paisley, 47, talked about his organization called "The Store," which is a nonprofit that allows low-income Nashville residents to walk in and take groceries for free.
Brad Paisley performs during the Live In The Vineyard Goes Country event at Regusci Winery on May 14, 2019, in Napa, California | Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images
Country singer crashes virtual parties
The country star is also helping people by crashing Zoom parties and surprising fans. He said it all began when some of his fans requested that he join their Zoom call.
Paisley has since crashed Zoom calls with teachers. He told Kotb that joining in on such events was "strangely emotional" in addition to being fun for him.
Paisley moved by Zoom calls
He added: "It's really a strange time, but it's also a time of unity." Paisley noted that the calls are just one of the ways that people today are just trying to stay sane with all that's going on.
Ashlyn Williamson was one of those who hosted a Zoom call that Paisley later joined in. She never thought the singer would actually take her request.
When he did join, the teachers — who all miss in-person classrooms — screamed with delight. Of course, Paisley thanked them for their services and shared some words of encouragement.
Soon after, Paisley released his song, "No I In beer," which has lyrics that should relate to most people. It talks about being "all in this together." The song was written in 2018 and adapted for COVID-19.
The Store is a shared project
The "Remind Me" singer is conducting his grocery store project alongside wife Kimberly Williams-Paisley. In addition to the walk-in experience they provide, they also do deliveries for senior Nashville residents.
The Store works in collaboration with Belmont University, Paisley's alumnus. To go in, one is asked to show ID and proof of income, proof of residence, or a statement of unemployment.
Paisley pays tribute to Kenny Rogers
Earlier this month, Paisley was part of a moving tribute to late country star Kenny Rogers during an ACM special. Rogers was 81 when he died from natural causes in March.
For his part, Paisley joined with Darius Rucker to perform "The Gambler" and "Lucille," two of Rogers' hits. It followed a tribute from singer Kelly Clarkson as well.
Country Music Television also did a benefit concert that would raise funds for coronavirus relief in Rogers' name. Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased.