It’s an exciting time to be Kenny Chesney. The Country Music Hall of Fame member just dropped the video for “Carry On,” the first single from his next album. He also reveals he is close to releasing his new record, his first since Born came out in 2024.

“A lot has happened over the last year, but the truth is I’ve been collecting some of these songs for over a decade,” Chesney says. “I knew when we decided to do the next album, I wanted a record that leaned into being an album, not a concept, but a collection of songs that took you somewhere emotionally or mentally.

“I never stop listening, or writing, or recording,” he continues. “But a few of these songs started pulling towards each other – and this album started to take shape. When you’re competing with yourself, what you’ve already recorded, it sets a pretty high bar. I don’t think I realized how really strong this collection was until I stepped back and looked at everything we’ve got.”

Why Kenny Chesney Is Releasing a New Album Now

Chesney spent time working on Heart Life Music, out now. But with the book completed, the 58-year-old is ready to return to his first love: country music.

“Unlike Heart Life Music, there was no hard deadline,” Chesney reflects. “Now I feel like there is some real hunger for this music. The world is in such a divided place, I think music that brings people together, that reminds them of their actual feelings is what they’re looking for – and that’s always been what holds my music together.”

The timing could not be better for Chesney’s next record, one he vows will be among his best.

“For anyone who’s looking to fill their days with light and joy, without pretending tough stuff doesn’t exist, this record’s gonna be for you,” he promises. “We’ve got all songs – I think – picked, and now it’s just a matter of making them sound as good as we can. It’s a lot of great guitars, different rhythms, and pretty amazing songs from some of my friends, some emerging writers, and a few of Nashville’s most iconic writers ever.”

Kenny Chesney’s ‘Carry On’ Single and Video

With a career that spans more than 30 years, “Carry On” achieved a new milestone for Chesney, with the most first-week adds ever in his career.

The video for “Carry On” was shot in Key West, showing Chesney enjoying the southern Florida town.

“Key West isn’t about who you are,” Chesney explains, “but what’s in your soul. It’s the great equalizer, with wisdom to be found just about anywhere if you listen. I knew I wanted this video to show people that heart – beyond what tourists see – and give them a sense of what this song’s really reaching into in terms of how to live.”

Although Chesney spends a lot of time in the Caribbean, he feels a special affinity for the people and lifestyle in Key West.

“It’s a different kind of freedom,” Chesney says.. “People here aren’t running after anything, but letting go of all that – and hanging onto what makes them happy. That’s the deal, really. It’s what I wanted this video to represent, and what I think reflects how this song hits me.”

Chesney’s only shows in 2026 are at his Live at Sphere Las Vegas residency.