Charles Esten discusses how his experience as a star on the TV show "Nashville" influenced the creation of his first album. While every artist's path is unique, Esten's journey stands out in the country music industry.
"Isn't it true? It has been a lengthy journey," the vocalist playfully remarks while speaking to Taste of Country about his latest album Love Ain't Pretty. The album, set to be released on Friday (Jan. 26), comes over thirty years after Esten began his career.
Starting with his initial job in the entertainment industry back in 1988, which involved participating in a game show known as Sale of the Century, the individual managed to secure over $32,000 worth of prizes. This was just the beginning of his successful career, as he later went on to portray the main character, Deacon Claybourne, in the popular country-themed television series Nashville. Furthermore, he achieved an impressive feat by releasing 54 singles in 54 consecutive weeks, earning him a Guinness World Record. In total, he has dedicated approximately 10,000 hours to his craft, which is equivalent to around 30
Naturally, there are certain drawbacks to releasing a first album at a later age, as is the case for Esten who is 58 years old. He understands that Love Ain't Pretty may not have the same significant impact on radio as other debut albums. However, he recognizes the advantage of having a unique backstory and identity that no one else can replicate. No one else can claim to have a character like Deacon Claybourne integrated into their own musical persona. Additionally, no one else has experienced the fictional rise to country music fame, and then followed it up with a real-life journey to stardom.
Esten expresses that he gained more knowledge and insight from the fans of Deacon than from Deacon himself. Throughout the show, Esten received messages from viewers who reached out to express how much solace they found in the complex and enduring character of Deacon, who faced challenges and adversity in his life.
The speaker shares that many people, perhaps due to the difficulties they have faced in life or the struggles their parents have experienced, feel a strong desire to express the therapeutic nature of going through those challenges. This realization has influenced the speaker's own music, as they now understand the importance of creating meaningful and impactful songs that can connect with others and potentially offer support and healing.
Esten frequently refers to the concept of a "through line" when discussing Love Ain't Pretty, and this is justified as he put in considerable effort to ensure that the project is a unified artistic expression that truly represents him from beginning to end. This involved placing a strong emphasis on the emotional core of the songs, taking inspiration from Deacon and his fans who taught him the importance of this aspect. Additionally, Esten co-wrote all 13 tracks on the album and blended a foundation of authentic country music with playful influences of rock & roll, which he humorously describes as going "full Springsteen."
Esten acknowledges producer Marshall Altman and the talented musicians recruited by Altman for their skill in capturing Esten's artistic vision. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in shaping this vision. Just before the initial lockdowns were imposed, Esten began working on an album, but due to the circumstances, it had to be put on hold. As soon as restrictions eased, Esten was eager to resume his work, and his determination to create the ideal debut album became even stronger.
When questioned about the purpose of their mission, the singer expresses their belief that the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the fundamental truth that life can be challenging and harsh, but it also holds immense beauty. They explain that all the pain and suffering experienced, particularly in matters of love, is intricately connected to the depth of one's emotions. The intense hurt felt when losing a relationship or a loved one is a direct reflection of the love that was once shared, which is why it can be both agonizing and profoundly exquisite.
The momentum of the album increased as songs like "Down the Road" and "A Little Right Now" were released. These songs played a significant role in developing the theme of the album, according to Esten. However, even though he had a general idea of the sentiment he wanted to convey, he struggled to find the right words to encapsulate it until he wrote the title song, which was added as the final track on the album.
After completing the song, just before leaving the room, Esten recalls saying, "This will be the title and the first song of the album." He wrote the song alongside Altman and songwriter Jimmy Yeary, and it encapsulated the album's theme – that love may not always be pleasant, but it is still remarkable and captivating.
Once he finished writing the words, he immediately recognized that he had conveyed the message accurately. This unwavering self-assurance, developed over many years of dedication and effort, is another significant factor that highlights the importance of Esten's long and unconventional journey leading up to his first album.
"I have another point to make about the experience of waiting for a long time. During my college years, I took on a job in the construction field where I worked as a carpenter's assistant," shares the singer. "During that time, I acquired a toolbox which I was immensely proud of. It contained various tools like a hammer, screwdrivers, and a drill, all of which appeared brand new and in great condition."
"And when I arrived, I noticed a group of carpenters with worn-out and battered tools, and I couldn't help but feel envious," he adds with a laugh. "In contrast, my tools appeared so perfectly new and unused. They jokingly exclaimed, 'This guy has never even touched a hammer before.' The wonderful thing about being my age is that now I look at my toolbox and it no longer looks brand new. I have swung that hammer countless times, if you know what I mean?"
Here are 20 country artists who reached the height of their success with their debut album. This list is credited to Billy D
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