Chris Young is so grateful for his fans. The Grand Ole Opry member has been part of country music for almost 20 years, ever since winning Nashville Star in 2006. As he readies his tenth studio album, with I Didn’t Come Here To Leave, Young knows none of his success would have happened without his fans, many who have been with him since his career began.
“I always tell people, if you’ve ever listened to one of my songs and didn’t turn it off, you’re the reason I get to do this,” Young tells Franklin Lifestyle. “That’s the truth. Every bit of success I’ve had is because people cared enough to listen.”
The Tennessee native works hard, perhaps harder than most, as a country music artist. But for Young, his motivation comes from realizing how fortunate he is to get to make a living doing what he loves.
“I used to do heating and air, and I was terrible at it,” he says. “I know how lucky I am to have this career. Giving back is something I think is very, very, very important.”
Why Chris Young Wants To Give Back
At Young’s alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University, there is a Chris Young Café, in his honor. He has also made headlines for his generosity, including giving away guitars and leaving a monstrous tip. It’s all Young’s way to return a bit of what he has been given.
“If a scholarship or opportunity I help provide ends up giving someone that little push they need, that’s the whole point,” he says. “Maybe ten years later, they’re running a publishing company, or they’re producing in their bedroom, or they’re out on tour. That’s what excites me.”
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Chris Young Reflects On His Longevity
When Young’s eponymous debut record came out 19 years ago, he never could have predicted that he would be still enjoying so much success, even after all these years.
“I joke that I’m not old enough to have been around this long,” the 40-year-old says. He adds that if there is a secret to his success, he has yet to learn it.
“Every career is different,” he maintains. “I’ve just been lucky enough to have an awesome career and been fortunate to learn from some of the best, including finding songs, whether I wrote them or not, that connected with people. Sometimes those weren’t even big chart hits, but they became fan favorites.”
Chris Young Opens Up About His New Record
I Didn’t Come Here To Leave is Young’s first on Black River Entertainment, after spending his entire career up until now on RCA Records. For Young, he feels finally at home, and more eager than ever for his next chapter, excitement that is evident in the title track.
“When I signed the new deal, I felt like throwing a party,” Young says. “The song is indicative of who I am as an artist. I’ve been through the ups and downs, I’ve stuck around and I’m still here. Plus, it’s just fun as hell.”
Young has a Top 35 hit with “‘Til the Last One Dies,” the debut single from I Didn’t Come Here to Leave. The record will be out on October 17. Pre-order it at ChrisYoungCountry.com.