Thomas Rhett is a prominent figure in the country music genre, known for his heartfelt lyrics and engaging performances. Born in Valdosta, Georgia, in 1990, Rhett grew up surrounded by music and began writing songs at a young age. He is the son of country singer and songwriter Rhett Akins, who had several chart-topping hits in the 1990s, and was exposed to a wide range of musical influences from an early age.
Rhett moved to Nashville in 2007 to pursue a career in music, and after several years of hard work and dedication, he began to make a name for himself as a successful songwriter. He wrote hits for a number of other country music artists before releasing his own debut single in 2012.
Since then, he has become one of the most popular and successful country music artists of his generation, with numerous chart-topping hits and awards to his name. In this article, we will explore Rhett’s early life and musical influences, his rise to fame in the country music industry, his personal life and family, his philanthropic work and social activism, and his future plans and projects.
Key Takeaways
- Thomas Rhett is a country music artist who blends various genres, including country, rock, and hip-hop.
- He has released four albums, all of which have achieved commercial success and critical acclaim.
- In addition to his music career, Rhett is known for his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for important causes such as mental health and racial inequality.
- He is a role model and community leader, using his platform to raise awareness and support various charitable organizations.
Early Life and Musical Influences
During his formative years, Thomas Rhett was exposed to a diverse range of musical genres, including country, rock, and hip-hop, which would later influence his unique sound as a country music artist.
As the son of country music singer-songwriter Rhett Akins, Thomas was surrounded by music from a young age. He began playing drums in a band formed with his friends in high school and later studied communications at Lipscomb University in Nashville, where he continued to pursue his passion for music.
Although his father’s music played a significant role in his upbringing, Thomas was also heavily influenced by other genres. In an interview with Billboard, he cited hip-hop artists like Jay-Z and Kanye West as some of his early musical inspirations. Additionally, he has mentioned rock bands such as Blink-182 and Third Eye Blind as influences.
This exposure to a variety of musical styles allowed Thomas to develop a unique sound that blends elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, and has made him one of the most successful country music artists of his generation.
Moving to Nashville and Starting a Career in Music
The decision to relocate to Nashville and pursue a career in music is a common one among aspiring musicians seeking to establish themselves in the industry. Thomas Rhett was no different, as he moved to Nashville in 2010 with the goal of making it as a songwriter and performer.
Upon arriving in Nashville, Rhett quickly began writing songs with other aspiring songwriters and performing at local bars and clubs.
Rhett’s big break came in 2012 when he signed a publishing deal with Big Machine Music. This allowed him to focus solely on songwriting and gave him the opportunity to write for some of the biggest names in country music, including Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line.
However, Rhett’s ultimate goal was to become a performer himself, and in 2013 he signed a record deal with Valory Music Co. His debut single, ‘Something to Do with My Hands,’was released later that year and quickly gained radio play.
Rhett’s career as a performer had officially begun, and he has since become one of the biggest names in country music, with multiple chart-topping hits and numerous awards to his name.
Songwriting Successes for Other Artists
One notable aspect of Thomas Rhett’s career is his success as a songwriter, having written for some of the biggest names in country music including Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line.
Rhett co-wrote Jason Aldean’s hit single, ‘I Ain’t Ready to Quit,’which peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2011.
He also co-wrote Florida Georgia Line’s ‘Round Here,’which became their second top ten hit on the Hot Country Songs chart in 2013.
Rhett’s writing skills have also been recognized by other notable artists such as Lee Brice and Joe Nichols.
Rhett’s success as a songwriter has not only helped him establish himself as a prominent figure in the country music industry but has also provided him with opportunities to collaborate with other artists.
Rhett has stated that the process of songwriting for others has allowed him to learn more about himself as an artist and has enabled him to develop a unique sound that sets him apart from other country artists.
His experiences as a songwriter have also influenced his own music, with many of his hit singles being co-written by him.
Overall, Rhett’s songwriting successes for other artists have not only contributed to his career but have also allowed him to become a prominent figure in the country music industry.
Debut Single and Rising Fame
With his debut single, ‘Something to Do with My Hands,’ reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2012, the rising fame of this country artist was evident.
Thomas Rhett’s unique blend of rock, pop, and country music attracted a large following, and his energetic live performances quickly became a fan favorite.
As his popularity grew, he released his first album, ‘It Goes Like This,’ which was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and produced several hit singles.
Rhett’s success continued with subsequent albums, including ‘Tangled Up’ and ‘Life Changes,’ both of which were certified platinum by the RIAA.
His ability to connect with his audience through heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies has made him one of the most successful country artists of his generation.
With numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Awards, Thomas Rhett’s rising fame shows no signs of slowing down.
Album Releases and Chart-Topping Hits
Releasing multiple albums that have been certified platinum by the RIAA, Thomas Rhett has consistently produced chart-topping hits that showcase his unique blend of rock, pop, and country music.
His debut album, ‘It Goes Like This,’ was released in 2013 and included the hit singles ‘Get Me Some of That’ and ‘It Goes Like This,’ both of which reached number one on the country charts.
Rhett’s second album, ‘Tangled Up,’ was released in 2015 and included the popular singles ‘Crash and Burn’ and ‘Die a Happy Man,’ which spent six and eight weeks respectively atop the country charts. The album also featured collaborations with Jordin Sparks and LunchMoney Lewis.
Rhett’s third album, ‘Life Changes,’ was released in 2017 and debuted at number one on both the country and all-genre Billboard 200 charts. The album included the hit singles ‘Unforgettable’ and ‘Marry Me,’ which reached number two and number one respectively on the country charts.
Rhett’s fourth album, ‘Center Point Road,’ was released in 2019 and included collaborations with Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, and Jon Pardi. The album’s lead single, ‘Look What God Gave Her,’ reached number one on the country charts, and the album as a whole debuted at number one on the country charts and number four on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart.
Collaborations and Awards
Thomas Rhett has received multiple awards for his collaborations with other artists in the country music industry.
In 2017, he won the ACM Award for Vocal Event of the Year for his collaboration with Maren Morris on the song ‘Craving You.’ The track also reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, making it Rhett’s sixth consecutive number one single.
Additionally, Rhett was nominated for a CMA Award for Musical Event of the Year in 2018 for his collaboration with Bebe Rexha on ‘Meant to Be,’ which spent a record-breaking 50 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Rhett has also collaborated with other notable artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Brett Eldredge, and Jon Pardi. These collaborations have resulted in multiple chart-topping hits and critical acclaim.
Rhett’s ability to seamlessly blend his sound with other artists has earned him recognition as a versatile musician in the country music industry. His collaborative efforts have not only expanded his fanbase but have also earned him numerous accolades, solidifying his position as one of the leading artists in the genre.
Personal Life and Family
One aspect of Thomas Rhett’s life that has garnered attention is his family and personal life. Rhett is married to Lauren Gregory Akins, whom he has known since the first grade. They got married in 2012 and have since welcomed three daughters into their family. In interviews, Rhett has often spoken about how his family is his top priority and how he tries to balance his career with spending time with them.
Apart from his immediate family, Rhett is also related to country music legend, Hank Williams Jr. His father, Rhett Akins, is a successful country singer-songwriter, and Rhett has often credited him for his love of music.
Additionally, Rhett has been open about his struggles with anxiety and how he has sought therapy to manage it. He has also been vocal about his support for various charitable causes, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the 147 Million Orphans Foundation.
Overall, Rhett’s personal life and family seem to be a significant aspect of his persona, and he often incorporates them into his music. Thomas Rhett’s family and personal life have played a significant role in shaping his career and his music. He has been vocal about his love for his family and how they are his top priority, and he has also been open about his struggles with anxiety. Additionally, his connection to country music royalty and his support for various charitable causes have further endeared him to his fans.
Overall, Rhett’s personal life seems to be an essential part of his identity as a country artist.
Philanthropic Work and Social Activism
Philanthropic work and social activism are prominent aspects of Thomas Rhett’s persona, as he has been vocal about his support for various charitable causes.
One of the organizations that he supports is the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is a pediatric treatment and research facility focused on finding cures for childhood diseases. In 2020, Rhett participated in the virtual St. Jude Jam, which was a fundraising event to support the hospital’s mission. He has also made personal donations to the hospital and has encouraged his fans to support it as well.
In addition to supporting St. Jude, Rhett is also a supporter of the 147 Million Orphans Foundation, which is a non-profit organization focused on providing food, water, medicine, and education to vulnerable children around the world. He has performed at events to raise funds for the organization and has also designed a t-shirt to support its cause.
Rhett’s commitment to philanthropy and social activism extends beyond his support for these organizations, as he has also used his platform to raise awareness about important issues such as racial inequality and mental health.
Overall, Thomas Rhett’s efforts to make a positive impact on the world demonstrate his dedication to using his influence for the greater good.
Future Plans and Projects
Regarding upcoming endeavors, Thomas Rhett has several projects in the works, including a new album and a tour set to begin in August 2021.
The new album, titled ‘Country Again: Side A,’is set to release on April 30, 2021, and will feature eleven tracks. According to Rhett, the album is a reflection of his personal growth and journey back to his roots in country music. The album’s lead single, ‘What’s Your Country Song,’has already garnered much attention and reached the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
In addition to his new album, Rhett is set to kick off his headlining ‘The Center Point Road Tour’in August 2021. The tour will feature special guests Cole Swindell and Gabby Barrett and includes shows across the United States and Canada.
Rhett has also announced plans for a documentary series titled ‘Thomas Rhett: One Night Only,’which will showcase his journey as a musician and the making of his new album.
Fans can look forward to these exciting projects from Thomas Rhett in the near future.
- ‘Country Again: Side A’album release date: April 30, 2021
- The Center Point Road Tour featuring Cole Swindell and Gabby Barrett begins in August 2021
- ‘What’s Your Country Song’is the lead single from the new album and reached the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart
- ‘Thomas Rhett: One Night Only’documentary series will showcase his journey as a musician and the making of his new album.
Legacy and Impact on Country Music
Transition: While Thomas Rhett’s future plans and projects promise to bring more exciting music to fans, it is equally important to explore his impact on country music. Rhett’s versatility and unique style have positioned him as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Rhett’s music has had an undeniable impact on the country music scene. His ability to blend various genres, such as pop, rock, and R&B, with country music has earned him a loyal following. His songs, including ‘Die a Happy Man,”Marry Me,’and ‘Life Changes,’have topped the charts and earned him numerous awards.
Rhett’s success has paved the way for other country artists to experiment with different styles and sounds, broadening the genre’s appeal to a wider audience.
Beyond his music, Rhett has also made a significant impact through his philanthropic work. He and his wife, Lauren Akins, have been actively involved in various charitable organizations, including the 147 Million Orphans foundation, a charity that aims to provide critical resources to vulnerable children worldwide.
Rhett’s involvement in philanthropy has helped raise awareness and support for important causes, making him not just a successful artist but also a role model and community leader. Overall, Thomas Rhett’s legacy in country music and his contributions to society make him a remarkable artist and person.