Opening bands Parmalee and The Swon Brothers joined country singer Brad Paisley on stage for two collaborative songs at their sold-out concert Thursday in the Convocation Center.

The Swon Brothers opened the show with popular songs, including “Pretty Beautiful” and “Pray For You,” from their first and second albums. The duo, which is known for its appearance on “The Voice” in 2013, also sang covers of classic songs, including “Life in the Fast Lane” by the Eagles.

The duo said performing for smaller venues like DeKalb is often more rewarding than performing in large venues.

“It gives us a better chance to be more intimate with” the crowd, said Zach Swon. “The crowds are great.”

Swon said being on tour with Paisley is a dream come true for him and his brother, Colton Swon.

“It’s like a free lesson every day,” said Zach Swon. “He teaches us so much, and he’s the nicest guy in the world.”

The Swon Brothers closed their set with their hit single, “Later On,” and opened the stage for group Parmalee.

“I watched them on ‘The Voice,’ said Ali Carlson, 17, of Sycamore. “It was really cool to see them in person. They’re really good live.”

Parmalee performed a set of their well-known songs, including “Close Your Eyes” and “Carolina.”

“I love Parmalee,” said Heather Bailey, 21, of Genoa. “My favorite is ‘Carolina.’ I think it’s really catchy.”

The crowd was on its feet throughout Paisley’s performance. He began his set with “The World” alongside Parmalee and The Swon Brothers. He continued to sing other crowd-favorite songs, including “Camouflage” and “Moonshine in the Trunk.”

Paisley walked into the crowd while he sang, giving away guitar picks and a signed acoustic guitar.

After his set, Paisley returned for an encore by singing his chart-topping hit, “Alcohol.”

“This is my third time seeing him, and he gets better every time,” said Rachel Prater, freshman elementary education major.