Chris Young is set to celebrate significant milestones this week, marking the release of his tenth studio album, “I Didn’t Come Here To Leave,” on Friday, October 17, while also commemorating the eighth anniversary of his induction into the Grand Ole Opry. Reflecting on these dual celebrations, Young expressed his joy about the coincidental timing of the album release with his Opry anniversary.
His journey with the Grand Ole Opry began when he received an invitation from Vince Gill on August 29, 2017. Young was officially inducted into this esteemed institution on October 17, 2017, in a momentous ceremony officiated by fellow Opry member Brad Paisley. That inaugural night, he captivated a sold-out audience by performing four songs, including his hit duet “Think Of You” with Cassadee Pope.
As Young prepares to unveil his latest work, he reminisces about the importance of his Opry membership. He credits his grandfather’s influence and shared musical experiences for instilling in him a profound respect for country music’s history. Young recalls the memorable moments spent in his grandfather’s music room, filled with Marty Robbins records, noting how these experiences shaped his passion for the genre.
Each visit to the Opry serves as a reminder of his dreams and aspirations, with Young often checking to see his name alongside legendary figures in country music. He finds it immensely rewarding to celebrate both his Opry anniversary and the launch of his tenth album simultaneously, viewing it as a significant chapter in his career.
“I Didn’t Come Here To Leave” marks Young’s first project with Black River Entertainment and features 14 new songs, 11 of which are co-written by him. The lead single, “Til The Last One Dies,” is gaining traction on radio and streaming platforms. Additionally, he has released the title track along with the poignant song “Jesus, Momma, Country Radio,” which highlights his dedication to the genre.
Looking ahead, Chris Young is gearing up for another milestone, as he will embark on his inaugural holiday tour starting November 20 in Grand Rapids, IA. The tour, titled “It Must Be Christmas – An Acoustic Evening with Chris Young,” promises to spread festive cheer across various states including Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts, and New York, extending through December.
Overall, this week is a testament to Young’s growth as an artist, reflecting not only his accomplishments but also his deep-rooted connection to the traditions and history of country music.