Kenny Chesney, the reigning Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, is an artist even non-country music fans are familiar with. Mr. Chesney exudes an easy charm and innocence that goes perfectly with his clean and clear songs. His is not a show that anyone who enjoys good music should miss.
Kenny Chesney’s career began in 1993 and he has since released 13 albums. Eleven of those thirteen albums have been certified Gold or Platinum, attesting to his huge popularity with listeners across the country. He’s had over thirty songs on the top 10 country charts, and they haven’t just come and gone. But fame has not touched what he is deep down: a kind and down-to-earth person.
Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1968, he didn’t seem destined to be a musician right away. Five-year-old Kenny received his first guitar from his parents, which he soon put down, saying “his fingers hurt.” As a teenager, he was a receiver on the Gibbs High School football team.
At East Tennessee State University, Kenny Chesney participated in a bluegrass program. He had already started saving money to buy a new guitar. This he did, and after graduation, Kenny Chesney set out for Nashville, home of the country.
His talent distinguished him and people noticed him. In 1992 he had signed contracts with the Opryland Music Group and the music industry giant BMI. Two of his early career hits were “In My Wildest Dreams” and “All I Need to Know.” His songs are packed with experience from his own life, and the sincerity and honesty of his anecdotes and emotions make a powerful impression on his audience. Fans feel that he can easily relate to Kenny Chesney, the musician and the man.
Many contemporary stars have ventured into other areas. Some start their own clothing lines, some patent their own scents. Chesney, who had the hit song “Beer In Mexico,” prefers the road less traveled: She’s been creating her own rum. She has even polled fans to find out if they like it.
As a live performer, Chesney remains a hot property. Before her most recent show in Boston, the tickets were gone in ten minutes. Overall, not a great achievement, but keep in mind the state of the economy: Showbiz ticket sales are down, but her shows continue to sell out. In these troubled times, the sight of those signature Kenny Chesney cowboy hats provides as much comfort as his music.
Chesney has won several awards in different categories, including Best Male Country Artist. In 1997 he was named ACM’s New Male Vocalist of the Year. Last year he won the Artist of the Year award. Obviously there is more to come.
Kenny Chesney’s personal charisma and his most soulful lyrics are sure to win audiences in the future. If he’s touring near you, try to see one of the most amazing country music acts, you won’t regret it.
