Charles Esten shares his unique experience of how his fame from the TV show "Nashville" influenced the creation of his first album. He acknowledges that while every artist has their own path, his journey is particularly distinct in the country music industry, and even in the broader music industry as a whole.
"Isn't it true?! The singer humorously remarks during a conversation with Taste of Country, discussing his new album Love Ain't Pretty. This album, which is set to be released on Friday, January 26th, marks the culmination of Esten's career, spanning over three decades."
Starting in 1988 with his initial appearance on a game show called Sale of the Century, where he emerged victorious with over $32,000 worth of prizes, to his notable portrayal of Deacon Claybourne on the popular country-themed TV show Nashville, to 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, equivalent to 10,000 hours, about 30 times over, to his craft.
Releasing a debut album later in life can have its drawbacks, as is the case for Esten who is 58 years old. He understands that Love Ain't Pretty may not have the same impact on radio as it would have if he had released it earlier. However, he recognizes the unique advantage he has in having a backstory and identity that no one else can replicate. Being able to embody a character like Deacon Claybourne in his music gives him a distinct edge. Additionally, he has the benefit of experiencing fictional success in country music and then achieving it again in his real life outside of the screen.
Esten states that he gained more knowledge and understanding from Deacon's fans than from Deacon himself. Throughout the show, viewers reached out to Esten to express how much they were comforted by the character of Deacon, who faced various challenges and hardships but remained strong.
The speaker explains that many people, possibly due to the difficulties they themselves or their parents have faced in life, feel the need to express to him the catharsis they experience by accompanying him on his journey. This realization has influenced the speaker's own music, as he now understands the importance of creating music that has purpose, connection, and the intention to provide assistance and healing.
Esten frequently refers to the term "through line" when discussing Love Ain't Pretty, and it is justified as he put a lot of effort into creating a unified artistic statement that truly represents him from beginning to end. This process involved placing emotional depth and substance as a priority, inspired by Deacon and his fans. Additionally, Esten co-wrote all 13 songs on the project, combining a genuine country foundation with his playful inclination towards rock 'n' roll, which he humorously refers to as embracing the essence of "full Springsteen."
Esten attributes the success of his vision to producer Marshall Altman and the talented musicians that Altman brought in for the recording sessions. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in shaping Esten's direction. Just before the initial lockdowns were implemented, he had begun working on an album, but it was put on hold. As soon as restrictions were lifted, Esten was eager to resume work, and his vision for his first album was even more defined and focused.
When asked about the purpose of their mission, the singer expresses that COVID has emphasized the fundamental idea that life can be tough and cruel, but at the same time, it can also be incredibly beautiful. They believe that love is deeply intertwined with all the hardships one may experience. Whether it be the loss of a relationship or the loss of a loved one, the pain is felt so deeply because of the love that was once there. This is also what makes love so incredibly beautiful.
The momentum of the album increased as more songs such as "Down the Road" and "A Little Right Now" were added, which Esten believes helped to develop the album's theme. However, even though he had a general idea of what he wanted the overall message to convey, he struggled to find the precise words to express it until he wrote the title song. Interestingly, this song was also the final addition to the album's tracklist.
After completing the song, just before leaving the room, Esten recalls saying, "This will be the title and the first song." He remembers the day when he, Altman, and songwriter Jimmy Yeary wrote the song. The song encapsulated the theme of the album, emphasizing that love may not always be pretty, but it is still beautiful.
After he finished writing the words, he immediately realized that he had conveyed the message perfectly. This self-assuredness, which comes from years of dedication and effort, adds further significance to Esten's journey towards his first album.
I want to mention another aspect of waiting for a long time. Back when I was in college, I took up a job in the construction field. Specifically, I worked as a helper to a carpenter. During that time, I acquired a toolbox which I was extremely proud of. It contained various tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers, and a drill. The reason I was so proud of it was that all these tools appeared to be brand new and in excellent condition.
When he arrived at the place, he noticed a group of carpenters with worn-out and battered tools. He found himself feeling envious of their tools because his own looked perfectly new and unused. They jokingly remarked that he had never held a hammer before. Now, being as old as he is, he appreciates the fact that his toolbox no longer looks brand new. He has used that hammer countless times, if you catch my drift.
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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
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