Charles Esten discusses how his experience as a star on the television show "Nashville" influenced the creation of his first album. While every artist's path is unique, Esten's journey stands out in the world of country music and beyond.
"Isn't it true? It's been quite a journey," the singer playfully remarks during a conversation with Taste of Country, discussing his new album Love Ain't Pretty. This album, set to be released on Friday, January 26th, comes after more than thirty years since Esten first started his career.
Starting from his initial appearance on a game show called Sale of the Century in 1988, where he managed to win over $32,000 worth of prizes, all the way to his prominent role as Deacon Claybourne on the popular country-themed TV series Nashville, and even his remarkable achievement of releasing 54 singles in 54 weeks, which earned him a Guinness World Record, Esten has dedicated an extensive amount of time and effort, equivalent to approximately 10,000 hours, which is approximately 30 times over.
There are certainly drawbacks to releasing a first album at a later stage in life, as in the case of Esten who is 58 years old. He understands that Love Ain't Pretty may not have the same significant impact on radio as it would have if he were younger. However, he also recognizes the value of having a unique backstory and identity that no one else could possibly possess. Who else can claim to have a character like Deacon Claybourne integrated into their own musical persona? Who else has experienced the advantage of achieving fame in country music fictionally, and then experiencing it again in their real life?
Esten shares that while he learned valuable lessons from portraying the character Deacon, he gained even more insights from the fans of the show who reached out to him. Throughout the series, viewers expressed how much solace they found in the complex and enduring character of Deacon, who lived a difficult and troubled life.
The speaker reflects on how people, who have experienced difficult lives themselves or had parents who did, shared with him the therapeutic value of embarking on a journey with someone. This realization made him understand the importance of giving his own music a purpose, a connection, and an intention to provide help and healing.
Esten frequently mentions the term "through line" when discussing Love Ain't Pretty, and it's not without reason. He dedicated significant effort to ensure that the project is a unified artistic statement that truly represents his identity from beginning to end. This involved placing importance on heartfelt and relatable emotions, influenced by Deacon and Deacon's fans. Additionally, Esten collaborated with others to write all 13 tracks on the project, blending a solid foundation of traditional country music with his own playful inclination towards rock and roll, which he amusingly refers to as "full Springsteen."
Esten acknowledges producer Marshall Altman and the talented musicians brought in by Altman for their skillful focus on his artistic vision. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in shaping Esten's path. Just before the initial lockdowns were implemented, Esten began working on an album which had to be put on hold. As soon as restrictions were lifted, Esten was eager to resume his work, and his determination to create the perfect debut album was stronger than ever.
When asked about the purpose behind their music, the singer expresses their belief that the COVID pandemic has highlighted the fundamental truth that life can be incredibly challenging and difficult, but also remarkably beautiful. They explain that the pain and hardships people experience, particularly in matters of love and relationships, stem from the deep emotions and love they have for others. This love is what makes the loss and heartache so intense, yet it is also what makes love itself so incredibly beautiful.
The momentum of the album increased as more songs like "Down the Road" and "A Little Right Now" were released, according to Esten. He believes that these songs helped to develop the theme of the album. However, even though he had an idea of the overall sentiment he wanted to convey, he struggled to find the right words to capture it until he wrote the title song. This song was also the last one to be added to the tracklist.
Once our work on it was completed, just before we left the room, I said, "This will be the title and the first song," Esten recalls, reflecting on the day he co-wrote that song with Altman and songwriter Jimmy Yeary. The song encapsulated the theme of the album, conveying that love may not always be pretty, but it is still a beautiful experience.
Once he had finished writing the words, he immediately recognized that he had conveyed the message accurately. This unwavering self-assurance, which has been developed through years of dedication and effort, is yet another factor that highlights the significance of Esten's long and unpredictable journey towards his first album.
"I have another point to make regarding the extended period of waiting. During my time in college, I took up a job in the construction industry where I worked as a carpenter's assistant," shares the singer. "During this period, I acquired a toolbox that I was extremely proud of. It contained various tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers, and a drill, all of which appeared to be in pristine condition."
"And when I arrived, I noticed a group of carpenters with worn-out and heavily used tools, and I couldn't help but feel envious," he adds with a laugh. "In contrast, my own tools appeared pristine and unused. They even exclaimed, 'This guy has never even held a hammer before.' However, one of the advantages of reaching my current age is that I look at my toolbox and realize it's no longer brand new. I've swung that hammer countless times, if you catch my drift."
Here is a collection of 20 country artists who achieved their highest level of success with their debut album. Credit for this gallery
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