Charles Esten discusses how his experience as a star on the television show "Nashville" influenced the creation of his first album. While every artist has a unique path, Esten's journey stands out in the country music industry and beyond.
The singer jokingly acknowledges that it has been a long journey during a conversation with Taste of Country. He reflects on his new album "Love Ain't Pretty", which is set to be released on Friday, January 26th, marking over thirty years since the beginning of his career.
Starting with his initial venture into the entertainment industry in 1988, which involved participating in a game show named Sale of the Century and securing over $32,000 worth of prizes, Charles Esten has had a remarkable journey. He later gained recognition for his portrayal of the main character, Deacon Claybourne, on the popular country-themed television series Nashville. Additionally, Esten achieved an incredible feat by releasing 54 singles in 54 consecutive weeks, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Guinness World Records. Overall, Esten has dedicated an extensive amount of time and effort to his craft, accumulating approximately 10,
Releasing a debut album later in life, like Esten who is 58, does come with certain disadvantages. Esten is aware that Love Ain't Pretty may not have as much success on radio as he would hope. However, he also recognizes the unique advantage he has in having a backstory and identity that is completely his own. No one else can claim to have a character like Deacon Claybourne integrated into their own musical identity. Additionally, Esten has the benefit of experiencing country music stardom both fictionally on-screen and in his real-life career.
Esten acknowledges that while he learned valuable lessons from playing the character of Deacon, he gained an even greater understanding from the fans of the show who reached out to him. Throughout the series, these viewers expressed how much solace they found in Deacon's portrayal of a character who faced numerous challenges and yet remained strong.
The speaker mentions that some people, who had experienced difficult lives or had parents who had gone through hardships, wanted to express that taking the journey with someone else was therapeutic for them. This realization made the speaker understand the importance of incorporating meaning, connection, and the intention to aid and bring comfort in their own music.
Esten frequently mentions the term "through line" when discussing Love Ain't Pretty, and it's not without reason. He dedicated a lot of effort to ensure that the project is a unified artistic expression that truly represents him from beginning to end. This involved placing emotional depth and substance at the forefront, following the guidance of Deacon and his fans. It also entailed co-writing all 13 songs on the album and merging a traditional country foundation with his playful inclination towards rock 'n' roll, which he humorously refers to as embracing his inner "Springsteen."
Esten acknowledges producer Marshall Altman and the talented musicians he brought on board for skillfully capturing his artistic vision. The unforeseen circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in shaping Esten's journey. Just before the first lockdowns were enforced, he began working on an album, but had to put it on hold. As soon as restrictions eased, Esten was eager to resume his creative process, and his determination for the direction of his first album became even more evident.
When asked about the purpose of her music, the singer explains that COVID has emphasized the fundamental truth that life can be both difficult and harsh, but also incredibly beautiful. She believes that love is intricately connected to this concept, as the pain experienced from losing a relationship or a loved one is a result of the deep affection we have for them. This is why such losses can be so painful, yet also so profoundly beautiful.
The album gained more popularity as songs like "Down the Road" and "A Little Right Now" were released, and these songs helped to develop the overall theme of the album according to Esten. However, even though he had an idea of what he wanted the album's message to be, he didn't have the precise words to capture it until he wrote the title song. Interestingly, the title song was also the final addition to the list of tracks on the album.
After completing the song, just before leaving the room, Esten recalls how he confidently declared, "This will be the title and the opening track." He wrote this song alongside Altman and songwriter Jimmy Yeary, and it perfectly encapsulated the theme of their album. Esten describes it as saying, "Love may not always be attractive, but it is undeniably exquisite."
Upon completing the writing, he immediately realized that he had successfully conveyed the intended message. The fact that Esten has developed a strong sense of self-assurance through years of dedication and effort adds further significance to his journey towards releasing his first album.
Another point I want to mention about waiting for a long time is a personal memory from my college days. I once took up a job in construction and specifically worked as a carpenter's assistant. During that time, I acquired a toolbox that made me feel immensely proud. I had various tools in it such as a hammer, screwdrivers, and a drill, all of which appeared brand new and in pristine condition.
After arriving, I noticed a group of carpenters with worn-out and old tools. I couldn't help but feel envious because my own tools appeared brand new and unused. They mocked me, claiming that I had never even held a hammer before. However, now that I am older, I look at my toolbox and it no longer looks new. I have used that hammer countless times, if you know what I mean.
Here is a collection of 20 country artists who achieved their highest level of success with their debut album. Credit for the gallery
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