One of country music's rising stars will take center stage Monday when Brad Paisley performs at the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair Grandstand.

Paisley will be on stage at 6 and 9 p.m., performing songs from his debut album, Who Needs Pictures.

The album, released in 1999, showcases his lovelorn lyrics as well as a guitar-playing style modeled after Garth Brooks, to whom Paisley is frequently compared.

Paisley's album went gold this year and is closing in on platinum status, and he received multiple nominations for the upcoming 34th Annual Country Music Association Awards.

He was nominated in six categories, a feat matched only by fellow country star Faith Hill. No performer has ever exceeded six nominations in his or her first year of eligibility.

Three singles have been released from Who Needs Pictures thus far. Most notable is "He Didn't Have to Be," which landed at No. 1 on multiple country charts.

The song is a tribute to stepfathers, which Paisley wrote to honor several of his child-raising friends.

Paisley's performances at the fair will be free to anyone who purchases a day pass for Monday.

The Grange Fair, in its 126th year of existence, runs through Thursday. About 130,000 people are expected to attend.

The fair merges camping with a carnival atmosphere. Grounds for tents, campers and trailers are available for attendees who want to stay for multiple days. Concession stands, rides, farm animals and live entertainment provide sources of entertainment for everyone.