History of Brad Paisley in Timeline
Bradley Douglas Paisley is a highly successful American country music artist known for his singing, songwriting, and guitar skills. Since his debut in 1999, he has released twelve studio albums and a Christmas album, all certified Gold or higher. Paisley has an impressive track record with 35 Top 10 singles on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, including 20 number one hits. He even set a record in 2009 for the most consecutive number one singles.
1937: Brad Paisley acquires 1937 herringbone Martin D-28
Following the 2010 Nashville flood, Brad Paisley used insurance money to purchase a 1937 herringbone Martin D-28 from George Gruhn's store. This acquisition became a valuable addition to his collection, emphasizing his connection to historic instruments.
1968: Brad Paisley and his iconic 1968 Pink Paisley Fender Telecaster
The 1968 Pink Paisley Fender Telecaster is the guitar most often associated with Brad Paisley. This instrument has become a symbol of his musical style and career, marking a significant part of his identity as a musician.
October 28, 1972: Birth of Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley was born on October 28, 1972.
January 1990: Billboard Country Airplay Chart Inception
The Billboard Country Airplay chart, on which Brad Paisley has achieved significant success, was first established in January 1990.
1990: Record Since Nielsen SoundScan
Brad Paisley became the artist with the most consecutive Number One country hits since the inception of Nielsen SoundScan in 1990.
1991: High School Graduation
Brad Paisley graduated from John Marshall High School in Glen Dale, West Virginia in 1991.
1995: College Graduation
Paisley graduated from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1995.
February 1, 1999: Debut Single Release
Brad Paisley debuted as a singer with Arista Nashville, releasing the song "Who Needs Pictures" on February 1, 1999.
May 7, 1999: First Gig with The Drama Kings
On May 7, 1999, Brad Paisley performed his first gig with his live band, The Drama Kings, with whom he has recorded most of his studio albums.
1999: Brad Paisley sings national anthem at a Browns game
During the 1999 season, Brad Paisley sang the national anthem at a Cleveland Browns game, reflecting his fandom for the team and his involvement in sports-related events.
1999: Songwriting Success
Brad Paisley signed a songwriting contract with EMI Music Publishing and wrote David Kersh's Top 5 hit "Another You", and David Ball's 1999 single "Watching My Baby Not Come Back".
1999: Debut Album Release
Brad Paisley released his debut album, "Who Needs Pictures", in 1999.
2000: Relationship with Chely Wright
Brad Paisley was in a relationship with fellow country music singer Chely Wright in the latter part of 2000.
2000: First Number One Hit and Awards
In 2000, Brad Paisley achieved his first No. 1 hit with "He Didn't Have to Be" and won the Country Music Association's (CMA) Horizon Award and the Academy of Country Music's best new male vocalist trophy.
February 2001: Platinum Album
Brad Paisley's debut album, "Who Needs Pictures," was certified platinum in February 2001.
February 17, 2001: Grand Ole Opry Induction
Brad Paisley was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on February 17, 2001, at the age of 28.
2001: Collaboration with Chely Wright
Brad Paisley contributed to Chely Wright's 2001 album "Never Love You Enough," co-writing and co-producing several tracks.
2001: Meeting Kimberly Williams
Brad Paisley first noticed Kimberly Williams in the film "Father of the Bride" in the early 1990s and began dating her in 2001.
August 2002: Platinum Album and Tour
Brad Paisley's album "Part II" was certified platinum in August 2002. He also toured as the opening act for Lonestar to support the album.
March 15, 2003: Marriage to Kimberly Williams
On March 15, 2003, Brad Paisley married Kimberly Williams at Stauffer Chapel on the campus of Pepperdine University after a nine-month engagement.
2003: Release of "Mud on the Tires"
Brad Paisley released his third album, "Mud on the Tires," in 2003.
2003: "Jug Fishing for Greazy and Other Brad Paisley Fishing Stories" Publication
Brad Paisley, in collaboration with author M. B. Roberts, released his book "Jug Fishing for Greazy and Other Brad Paisley Fishing Stories" in 2003 under Thomas Nelson Publishing.
2004: "Mud on the Tires" Hits Number One
The title track from Brad Paisley's album "Mud on the Tires" reached Billboard No. 1 in 2004.
2005: Release of "Time Well Wasted" and Tour
Brad Paisley released his album "Time Well Wasted" in 2005 after touring with Reba McEntire and Terri Clark on the Two Hats and a Redhead Tour.
October 28, 2006: Freemasonry Ceremony
Brad Paisley participated in a Freemasonry ceremony on October 28, 2006, accompanied by his father, Doug Paisley.
November 6, 2006: CMA Award Win for "Time Well Wasted"
On November 6, 2006, Brad Paisley's album "Time Well Wasted" won the Country Music Association CMA Award for Best Album.
2006: Unsolicited Airplay
A reissued version of Brad Paisley's song "Waitin' on a Woman" received unsolicited airplay in late 2006.
February 22, 2007: Birth of William Huckleberry Paisley
Brad Paisley and Kimberly Williams welcomed their first son, William Huckleberry Paisley, also known as "Huck," on February 22, 2007, in Nashville.
April 26, 2007: Start of Bonfires & Amplifiers Tour
Brad Paisley began his Bonfires & Amplifiers Tour on April 26, 2007, in support of his album "5th Gear".
June 19, 2007: Release of "5th Gear"
Brad Paisley released his fifth studio album, "5th Gear," in the United States on June 19, 2007.
February 10, 2008: First Grammy Win for Best Country Instrumental
On February 10, 2008, Brad Paisley achieved a significant milestone in his career by winning his first Grammy Award. He was awarded Best Country Instrumental for his performance of "Throttleneck." This marked an important recognition in Paisley's musical journey.
February 2008: Tour Extension
Brad Paisley's Bonfires & Amplifiers Tour was extended past its original end date to February 2008 due to its success.
February 24, 2008: End of Bonfires & Amplifiers Tour
Brad Paisley's Bonfires & Amplifiers Tour ended on February 24, 2008.
June 11, 2008: Start of The Paisley Party Tour
Brad Paisley launched his 'The Paisley Party' tour on June 11, 2008, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The tour, sponsored by Hershey's, featured opening acts such as Wicks, Julianne Hough, and Jewel. This marked the beginning of a 42-date tour across various locations.
September 8, 2008: Release of 'Start a Band' Duet with Keith Urban
On September 8, 2008, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban released their first duet, 'Start a Band,' to country radio. The song quickly became a hit, marking another number one achievement for Paisley, his thirteenth overall and ninth consecutive.
September 20, 2008: Consecutive Number One Hits
On September 20, 2008, Brad Paisley's song "Waitin' on a Woman" became his twelfth number-one single and his eighth straight number-one hit.
November 4, 2008: Release of Instrumental Album 'Play'
On November 4, 2008, Brad Paisley released his sixth instrumental album titled 'Play.' The album featured the single 'Start a Band,' a duet with Keith Urban, which became his thirteenth number one hit. 'Play' also included collaborations with various artists, showcasing Paisley's versatility.
November 12, 2008: CMA Awards Wins
On November 12, 2008, Brad Paisley won Male Vocalist of the Year and Music Video of the Year for 'Waitin' on a Woman' during the Country Music Association Awards. These accolades highlighted his success and popularity in the country music scene.
2008: Music Video Recognition
The music video for "Whiskey Lullaby," a duet by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss, was rated No. 2 on the 100 Greatest Videos by CMT in 2008.
2008: Brad Paisley invites Brady Quinn to concert
In 2008, Brad Paisley invited former Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn to his concert at the Blossom Music Center, demonstrating his connection to the Browns and his interest in mingling with sports personalities.
April 17, 2009: Birth of Jasper Warren Paisley
Brad Paisley and Kimberly Williams' second son, Jasper Warren Paisley, named after Brad's grandfather who gifted him his first guitar, was born on April 17, 2009.
June 30, 2009: Release of 'American Saturday Night' Album
Brad Paisley released his seventh studio album, 'American Saturday Night,' on June 30, 2009. The album featured the lead single 'Then,' which became his 14th number one single, continuing his streak of chart-topping hits.
July 21, 2009: Performance at the White House
On July 21, 2009, Brad Paisley performed at the White House for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. This event was part of a celebration of country music, highlighting Paisley's influence and recognition beyond the music industry.
November 11, 2009: Co-Hosting the CMA Awards
Brad Paisley co-hosted the CMA Awards on November 11, 2009, for the second consecutive year. During the event, he performed 'Welcome to the Future' and won Male Vocalist of the Year, as well as Musical Event of the Year for 'Start a Band' with Keith Urban.
2009: Record-Breaking Singles
In 2009, Brad Paisley set a new record for the most consecutive singles (10) reaching the top spot on the US Billboard Country Airplay chart.
2009: Brad Paisley executive produces 'Nashville' drama series
In late 2009, Brad Paisley was announced as the executive producer of a new drama series titled 'Nashville' for The CW network. Despite its potential, the pilot was not picked up. This venture showcased his interest in television production.
March 1, 2010: Performance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
On March 1, 2010, Brad Paisley was the first musical performer for the second tenure of 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.' Performing 'American Saturday Night,' he marked this comeback episode with a memorable musical appearance.
March 5, 2010: Final Date of American Saturday Night Tour
On March 5, 2010, during the final concert of his American Saturday Night Tour in Charleston, South Carolina, Brad Paisley slipped and fell while performing 'Alcohol.' Although initially feared to have a broken rib, he was released from the hospital after an MRI showed no serious injury.
November 10, 2010: CMA Entertainer of the Year Award
On November 10, 2010, Brad Paisley was awarded the top honor of Entertainer of the Year at the 44th Annual CMA Awards. In his acceptance speech, he emotionally paid tribute to his grandfather, who inspired him to play the guitar.
2010: Brad Paisley loses instruments in Nashville flood
In 2010, Brad Paisley lost several instruments, including a 1970s Gibson Les Paul, in a flood in Nashville. The insurance compensation allowed him to purchase a rare 1937 herringbone Martin D-28, turning a challenging situation into a chance to acquire a prized guitar.
2010: Release of Brad Paisley signature Paisley Drive pedal
In 2010, Brad Paisley collaborated with Wampler Pedals to release the Brad Paisley signature Paisley Drive, an overdrive pedal tailored to his specifications. This product highlighted his influence on musical equipment design.
March 14, 2011: Release of 'Old Alabama' Single
On March 14, 2011, Brad Paisley released 'Old Alabama' to country radio. The song, featuring Alabama, became his nineteenth number one hit, further cementing his status in the music industry.
March 22, 2011: Launch of Brad Paisley World Game
On March 22, 2011, Brad Paisley's website announced the launch of 'Brad Paisley World,' a new beta game for fans. Modeled after popular Facebook games, it allowed fans to interact and access exclusive content.
May 23, 2011: Release of 'This Is Country Music' Album
On May 23, 2011, Brad Paisley released his eighth studio album, 'This Is Country Music.' The album featured successful singles, including 'Old Alabama' and 'Remind Me,' and showcased Paisley's continued influence in country music.
September 21, 2011: Release of 'Mark Twain: Words & Music'
On September 21, 2011, Brad Paisley contributed a new song, 'Huck Finn Blues,' to the double-CD 'Mark Twain: Words & Music.' The project, featuring various artists, paid tribute to Mark Twain's life through spoken word and song.
October 19, 2011: Voice Cameo on South Park
Brad Paisley made a voice cameo on the South Park episode 'Bass to Mouth,' aired on October 19, 2011. He voiced various background characters, showcasing his versatility and sense of humor.
2011: "Diary of a Player: How My Musical Heroes Made a Guitar Man Out of Me" Publication
In 2011, Brad Paisley released his autobiography, "Diary of a Player: How My Musical Heroes Made a Guitar Man Out of Me," co-written with David Wild, a contributing editor for Rolling Stone magazine. The book explores Paisley's journey into the music industry, focusing primarily on his passion for music and guitar.
January 14, 2012: Guest Appearance on Prairie Home Companion
On January 14, 2012, Brad Paisley appeared as a guest on Garrison Keillor's 'Prairie Home Companion.' He performed 'Life's Railway to Heaven,' showcasing his musical talents in a unique setting.
April 25, 2012: Feature on South Park Episode 'Cartman Finds Love'
On April 25, 2012, Brad Paisley featured in the South Park episode 'Cartman Finds Love.' He voiced himself, sang the national anthem, and participated in a duet of 'I Swear,' demonstrating his crossover appeal into television.
September 20, 2012: Release of 'Southern Comfort Zone' Single
On September 20, 2012, Brad Paisley released 'Southern Comfort Zone,' which debuted at number 25 on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song marked the first single from his ninth studio album 'Wheelhouse,' highlighting his continued success in the music industry.
2012: Brad Paisley appears on 'Nashville' series
In 2012, Brad Paisley made cameo appearances on the television series 'Nashville,' which also featured his wife, Kimberly Williams, in a recurring role. This involvement highlighted his participation in the entertainment industry beyond music.
April 9, 2013: Release of 'Wheelhouse' Album
Brad Paisley released his ninth studio album, 'Wheelhouse,' on April 9, 2013. The album included several singles, such as 'Beat This Summer' and 'I Can't Change the World,' continuing his trend of impactful releases.
June 12, 2013: Performance with the Rolling Stones
On June 12, 2013, Brad Paisley announced his participation in a Rolling Stones concert in Philadelphia via Twitter. This collaboration highlighted his versatility and recognition in the broader music community.
2013: Selling Pacific Palisades Home
Brad Paisley and Kimberly Williams sold their home in Pacific Palisades in 2013. They primarily reside in Franklin, Tennessee.
April 6, 2014: "River Bank" Released
On April 6, 2014, Brad Paisley released "River Bank" as the lead single from his upcoming album, "Moonshine in the Trunk."
May 24, 2014: Performance for US Troops
On May 24, 2014, Brad Paisley accompanied President Barack Obama on Air Force One to Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, where he performed a full concert for the stationed US troops.
June 1, 2014: "Welcome to the Future" Ranked in Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Country Songs
Rolling Stone magazine ranked Brad Paisley's song "Welcome to the Future" #100 on their list of the 100 greatest country songs on June 1, 2014.
August 26, 2014: "Moonshine in the Trunk" Released
Brad Paisley released his tenth studio album, "Moonshine in the Trunk," on August 26, 2014, under Sony Music Entertainment.
September 2, 2014: "Perfect Storm" Released to Country Radio
On September 2, 2014, Brad Paisley released "Perfect Storm," the second single from his album "Moonshine in the Trunk," to country radio.
September 2014: "Moonshine in the Trunk" Chart Success
In September 2014, Brad Paisley's album "Moonshine in the Trunk" achieved significant chart success, becoming his eighth number one album on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart, his ninth Top 10 Pop album, and his fifth album to reach #2 on the Billboard 200.
January 2015: "Perfect Storm" Hits Number One
In January 2015, Brad Paisley's single "Perfect Storm" reached number one on the Country Airplay chart.
January 2015: Last Number One Single Until 2022
Brad Paisley's single "Perfect Storm" reached number one on the charts in January 2015, marking his last number one single until "Freedom Was a Highway" in February 2022.
January 26, 2015: "Crushin' It" Release
"Crushin' It," the third single from Brad Paisley's "Moonshine in the Trunk" album, was released to country radio on January 26, 2015.
September 14, 2015: "Country Nation" Release
Brad Paisley released "Country Nation," the fourth single from his album "Moonshine in the Trunk," to country radio on September 14, 2015.
2015: Santa Cruz Guitar Company introduces Brad Paisley Signature Model
In 2015, the Santa Cruz Guitar Company launched the Brad Paisley Signature Model, an acoustic dreadnought guitar. This release added to his reputation as a significant figure in guitar design and music.
May 13, 2016: "Without a Fight" Duet Release
On May 13, 2016, Brad Paisley released "Without a Fight," a duet with Demi Lovato, initially intended as the lead single for his eleventh studio album.
October 6, 2016: "Today" Release
On October 6, 2016, Brad Paisley released "Today," the second single from his upcoming album. The song marked his first Country Digital Song Sales No. 1 and reached the top spot on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase charts, making it his 24th No. 1 song.
2016: Release of DB4 amp by Brad Paisley and Dr. Z Amplification
In 2016, Brad Paisley collaborated with Dr. Z Amplification to release the DB4 amp, named 'Doc & Brad's fourth amp design.' This product reflected his ongoing contributions to music technology and equipment.
April 2017: "Love and War" Album Release
Brad Paisley released his eleventh studio album, "Love and War," in April 2017. The album featured collaborations with notable artists like Timbaland, John Fogerty, Bill Anderson, and Mick Jagger, and included a songwriting credit with Johnny Cash.
2017: Brad Paisley sings national anthem at 2017 World Series
In 2017, Brad Paisley sang the national anthem at Dodger Stadium before Game 2 of the World Series, where the Los Angeles Dodgers faced the Houston Astros. This event highlighted his connection to sports and his support for the Dodgers.
2017: Brad Paisley's Comedy Rodeo on Netflix
In 2017, Brad Paisley was featured in the Netflix original 'Brad Paisley's Comedy Rodeo,' where he was often seen playing his Santa Cruz Signature Model guitar, demonstrating his versatility as a performer.
October 4, 2018: Opening of The Store
On October 4, 2018, Brad Paisley and his wife, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, partnered with Belmont University to open The Store, a free referral-based grocery store in Nashville, aimed at supporting the community in need.
November 2018: "Bucked Off" Release
In November 2018, Brad Paisley released the single "Bucked Off."
2018: Brad Paisley sings national anthem at 2018 World Series
In 2018, Brad Paisley once again sang the national anthem at Dodger Stadium, this time before Game 3 of the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox, showcasing his recurring role in significant sports events.
March 11, 2019: "My Miracle" Release
Brad Paisley released the single "My Miracle" on March 11, 2019.
2019: Guest Judge on America's Got Talent
Brad Paisley appeared as a guest judge on season 14 of America's Got Talent in 2019, where he pressed the Golden Buzzer for singer/guitarist Sophie Pecora during the "Judge Cuts" round.
June 2021: Brad Paisley promotes COVID vaccine with Jill Biden
In June 2021, Brad Paisley joined First Lady Jill Biden to promote the COVID vaccine by performing a cover of 'Jolene,' substituting the word 'vaccine.' This effort highlighted his role in public health advocacy.
2021: Collaboration with Jimmie Allen
Brad Paisley collaborated with Jimmie Allen on the song "Freedom Was a Highway" in 2021.
2021: Release of 'The Medicine Will' criticizing opioid crisis
In 2021, Brad Paisley released 'The Medicine Will,' a song criticizing the pharmaceutical industry's role in the U.S. opioid crisis, showcasing his willingness to address critical social issues through music.
February 2022: "Freedom Was a Highway" Reaches Number One
Jimmie Allen's song "Freedom Was a Highway," featuring Brad Paisley, reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in February 2022, becoming Paisley's twentieth number one single and his first since "Perfect Storm" in January 2015.
2022: Brad Paisley becomes vocal advocate for Ukraine
In 2022, after Russia's military actions in Ukraine, Brad Paisley became an advocate for Ukraine, joining the United24 project as an ambassador for its 'Rebuilding Ukraine' program.
February 2023: Signing with EMI Nashville
After being with Arista Nashville since the beginning of his career, Brad Paisley signed a new record deal with EMI Nashville in February 2023.
February 24, 2023: "Same Here" Release
On February 24, 2023, Brad Paisley released "Same Here," a single featuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
March 2023: Brad Paisley donates royalties to Ukraine rebuilding efforts
In March 2023, Brad Paisley announced he would donate royalties from his song 'Same Here' to efforts to rebuild Ukraine, showcasing his commitment to international humanitarian causes.
June 24, 2023: "So Many Summers" Release
Brad Paisley released "So Many Summers," the second single from his upcoming album, on June 24, 2023.
2024: Upcoming Album Release
Brad Paisley is scheduled to release his thirteenth studio album, "Son of the Mountains," in 2024.
2024: Brad Paisley sings national anthem at 2024 World Series
In 2024, Brad Paisley performed the national anthem at Dodger Stadium before Game 1 of the World Series, where the Dodgers played against the New York Yankees. This performance continued his tradition of participating in major sporting events.