How Garth Brooks, The Killers and Tom Petty became stars of college football Saturdays |

When Garth Brooks recorded his version of “Callin' Baton Rouge” — an up-tempo country hit previously produced by New Grass Revival and others — he had a specific vibe in mind.

“New Grass recorded the song for bluegrass festivals,” Brooks said. “We recorded the song to be played in stadiums and arenas, with one lone purpose. ... Get people fired up!”

Nowadays, Brooks' vision comes to life at LSU's Tiger Stadium when that catchy intro begins and thousands of football fans yell a heartfelt “LOUISIANA!” when the state's name is mentioned in the first line of the song.

“CBR sang at LSU seems more like a war cry than a tradition,” Brooks said in an email to The Associated Press. “I get goosebumps every time I hear them sing it.”

Callin' Baton Rouge at LSU is just one example of a trend swe