In the world of American country music, one name has been making waves and stealing hearts - Morgan Cole Wallen. Born on May 13, 1993, this talented singer and songwriter have come a long way from his humble beginnings. Let's take a closer look at the extraordinary life and career of Morgan Wallen, a true country music sensation.
Early Life, Family, and Education: The Making of a Star
Morgan Wallen's story begins in Sneedville, Tennessee, where he was born to parents Tommy and Lesli Wallen. His father served as a local church pastor, while his mother worked as a teacher. As a teenager, the family moved to Knox County, where Morgan graduated from Gibbs High School. His life was not only about academics; Wallen was a gifted athlete, excelling as a pitcher and shortstop for the school's baseball team. He harbored dreams of continuing his baseball career in college, but fate had other plans when he tore his ulnar collateral ligament during his senior year.
From a young age, music was in Wallen's blood. He took piano and violin lessons and was exposed to a diverse musical playlist, thanks to his father's love for classic rock. In his teenage years, his music taste evolved, drawing inspiration from bands like Breaking Benjamin and Nickelback, as well as rap icons like Lil Wayne.
However, the transition to adulthood wasn't all smooth sailing for Wallen. After high school, he found himself working in landscaping, facing disappointment over the demise of his baseball dreams. It was during this time that he rediscovered his passion for music and picked up the guitar. Country music, with artists like Keith Whitley and Eric Church, captured his heart, and he decided to shape his sound in that lineage.
Career Beginnings and "The Voice" (2014-2017): A Star in the Making
In 2014, Morgan Wallen took a significant leap of faith by auditioning for the sixth season of the popular music competition program, "The Voice." His rendition of "Collide" by Howie Day caught the attention of judges Shakira and Usher. He initially joined Team Usher but was later snapped up by Adam Levine's team. Although Wallen didn't make it to the finals, this setback only fueled his ambition to become the best version of himself.
While in California for "The Voice," Wallen began collaborating with vocal coach Sergio Sanchez of Atom Smash. This partnership would prove crucial as Wallen decided to relocate to the heart of country music, Nashville, to pursue his music career. Alongside Sanchez, he formed a temporary band called "Morgan Wallen & Them Shadows." This move led him to Bill Ray and Paul Trust of Panacea Records, and in 2015, Wallen signed with Panacea Records. He released his debut EP, "Stand Alone," which featured the certified gold single "Spin You Around."
In 2015, Wallen's manager, Dirk Hemsath of Working Group Artist Management, recognized his potential and introduced him to Seth England of Big Loud Shirt. Wallen's audition for Big Loud Records led to a contract, marking the beginning of his journey toward stardom. His debut single, "The Way I Talk," was released in 2015, setting the stage for his rise in the country music scene.
Mainstream Success (2018-present): A Rising Star Shines Bright
Morgan Wallen's career took a significant turn when he embraced a distinctive mullet hairstyle, reminiscent of his father's younger days. This style became synonymous with his image as he embarked on his journey to country music stardom.
In 2018, Wallen released his debut studio album, "If I Know Me," featuring hit singles like "Whiskey Glasses." The song reached the top of the Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts, making it his breakthrough hit. "Whiskey Glasses" also made its mark on the all-genre Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 17. Wallen's star was on the rise, and he became a prominent figure in the country music landscape.
In 2020, Wallen's album "If I Know Me" reached the number one spot on the Top Country Albums chart, an impressive feat that marked a new milestone in his career. His profile continued to soar, thanks to his growing presence on platforms like TikTok, where he gained a dedicated following.
Wallen's sophomore album, "Dangerous: The Double Album," released in 2021, showcased a fusion of country and R&B/pop balladry. It made an immediate impact, debuting at the top of the Billboard 200 and Canadian Albums Chart. This remarkable achievement marked the first time a country artist achieved this since Garth Brooks' "The Chase" in 1992. The album's singles, including "More Than My Hometown" and "7 Summers," broke records and solidified Wallen's status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
In particular, "7 Summers" earned Wallen his first top 10 placement on the Hot 100 chart, reaching number six. It was even chosen by Time as one of the best songs of the year. Wallen achieved another remarkable feat by charting six songs within the top 10 of the Hot Country Songs chart simultaneously, a testament to his growing influence in the world of country music.
The Record-Breaking Chart-topper (2023): A Trailblazer in Country Music
In 2023, Morgan Wallen reached a new pinnacle of success with his third studio album, "One Thing at a Time." This album achieved a remarkable feat by topping the Billboard 200 chart for an astounding 12 consecutive weeks. What's more, all 36 tracks from the album made their way onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart, breaking records and establishing Wallen as an artist with unprecedented influence.
The single "Last Night" from the album also reached the pinnacle of the Hot 100 chart in 2023, marking Wallen's first solo single to achieve this milestone. His 12-week reign on the charts broke several records, including a 31-year record set by Billy Ray Cyrus.
Morgan Wallen's remarkable journey in the world of country music continues to captivate audiences, break records, and redefine the genre. As he continues to create music that resonates with fans worldwide, there's no doubt that he will remain a pivotal figure in the country music landscape for years to come.
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