Luke Combs
Biography
Luke Albert Combs, born on March 2, 1990, in Huntersville, North Carolina, is a prominent American country music singer and songwriter. Raised in Asheville, North Carolina, by his parents Chester and Rhonda Combs, he was an only child. From a young age, Combs was involved in music, singing in the church choir, which even performed at Carnegie Hall, and in school musicals. He attended Appalachian State University where he initially studied business before switching to criminal justice. During his college years, he worked as a bouncer at a bar where he would later get his start performing. He ultimately dropped out of college with less than a month left to pursue his music career, moving to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2014.
Career Beginnings
In Nashville, Combs began to build his career. In February 2014, he released his debut EP, "The Way She Rides," followed by a second EP, "Can I Get an Outlaw," later that same year. His third EP, "This One's for You," was released in November 2015. A significant turning point came with his single "Hurricane," which sold 15,000 copies in its first week in 2016. This success led to a record deal with Sony Music Nashville. His debut album, "This One's for You," was released in 2017 and reached number four on the Billboard 200 chart. His second album, "What You See Is What You Get" (2019), topped the charts in several territories.
Rise to Stardom
Combs' career has been marked by a rapid ascent to the top of the country music scene. His musical style is noted for its blend of traditional country with a modern twist, featuring heartfelt and relatable lyrics. He has achieved remarkable success with his singles, with his first 14 singles all reaching number one on Billboard's Country Airplay chart. Some of his most popular songs include "Beautiful Crazy," "When It Rains It Pours," and his cover of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car." His work has earned him numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, such as Entertainer of the Year in 2021 and 2022. He has also received several Grammy Award nominations.
Musical Style and Influences
Luke Combs's music is often described as a mix of traditional country with elements of Southern rock and soul. He is known for his powerful voice and authentic storytelling, often drawing from personal experiences. His musical influences include country legends such as Garth Brooks, Vince Gill, and Brooks & Dunn, as well as singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman. His cover of Chapman's "Fast Car" was inspired by his father and became a significant hit. Kix Brooks of Brooks & Dunn has praised Combs for his passion and honesty in his music.
Personal Life
Luke Combs began dating Nicole Hocking in early 2016, and they became engaged in November 2018. The couple married in Florida on August 1, 2020. They have two sons, Tex Lawrence, born in June 2022, and Beau Lee, born in August 2023. Combs has been open about his struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder since his teenage years. He has written several songs inspired by his wife, including the hit "Beautiful Crazy."