Who is Brantley Gilbert? Brantley Keith Gilbert is a name that resonates with fans of country rock. Born on January 20, 1985, in Jefferson, Georgia, Gilbert has carved out a unique space in the music world. His songs blend the raw energy of rock with the heartfelt storytelling of country. From his early days writing songs at 13 to his chart-topping hits like "Bottoms Up" and "Small Town Throwdown," Gilbert's journey is both inspiring and intriguing. Married to his high school sweetheart, Amber Cochran, and a devoted family man, he balances his high-energy performances with a grounded personal life.
Key Takeaways:
- Brantley Gilbert's journey from a small town in Georgia to country music stardom was shaped by his early passion for songwriting and unique blend of country rock influenced by Southern legends.
- Gilbert's impactful career is marked by chart-topping hits, personal values reflected in his music, and a commitment to supporting the military and local communities.
Early Life and Influences
Brantley Gilbert's journey to stardom began in a small town in Georgia. His early years were shaped by the rich musical heritage of the South, which played a significant role in his development as an artist.
- Birth and Upbringing: Brantley Keith Gilbert was born on January 20, 1985, in Jefferson, Georgia. Growing up in a small town, he was surrounded by the sounds of Southern music.
- Musical Influences: Influenced by legends like Hank Williams Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Alabama, Gilbert developed a unique blend of country rock that set him apart from other artists.
Songwriting Beginnings
From a young age, Gilbert showed a remarkable talent for songwriting, which would later become a cornerstone of his career.
- Age 13: At just 13 years old, Gilbert began writing songs, demonstrating his early passion and dedication to music.
- Georgia College and State University: He attended Georgia College and State University to study music, further honing his skills and understanding of the craft.
Career Path
Gilbert's career path took him from Nashville as a songwriter to becoming a successful recording artist.
- Nashville as a Songwriter: Moving to Nashville, Gilbert signed with Warner Chappell Publishing, where he began his professional songwriting career.
- Independent Label: In 2009, he released his debut album, Modern Day Prodigal Son, under the independent label Average Joes Entertainment.
Breakthrough Albums
Gilbert's breakthrough came with his second album, which featured several hit singles that catapulted him to fame.
- Halfway to Heaven: Released in 2010, this album included hits that established Gilbert in the country music scene.
- Valory Music Co.: In 2011, he signed with Valory Music Co., a division of Big Machine Records, which released a deluxe edition of Halfway to Heaven.
Chart-Topping Hits
Gilbert's subsequent albums produced numerous chart-topping hits, solidifying his place in country music.
- Just as I Am: Released in 2014, this album featured hit singles like "Bottoms Up" and "Small Town Throwdown," both reaching number one on the Billboard country charts.
- The Devil Don't Sleep: Released in 2016, this album included the hit single "The Weekend."
Songwriting Contributions
In addition to his own music, Gilbert has written songs for other country artists, showcasing his versatility and talent.
- Collaborations: He co-wrote Jason Aldean's "My Kinda Party" and "Dirt Road Anthem," contributing to their success.
- Songwriting Talents: Gilbert's knack for writing relatable and catchy songs has been a significant factor in his success.
Personal Life
Gilbert's personal life, including his marriage and family, has influenced his music and public persona.
- High School Sweetheart: In 2015, Gilbert married Amber Cochran, his high school sweetheart. They have two children, Barrett Hardy-Clay and Braylen Hendrix.
- Family Man: Transitioning from a high-energy lifestyle, Gilbert now embraces family values, often reflected in his music.
Tattoos and Personal Symbols
Gilbert's tattoos and personal symbols reflect his beliefs and values, making him a distinctive figure in country music.
- Second Amendment Tattoo: In May 2015, Gilbert got a tattoo featuring the text of the Second Amendment above two large guns, showing his support for gun rights.
- Support for the Military: His involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project and participation in events like The Rolling Odyssey highlight his support for the military.
Philanthropy
Gilbert's philanthropic efforts demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community.
- Toys for Tots Donation: In 2015, he donated $10.5 million to Toys for Tots, a charity providing toys to underprivileged children during Christmas.
- Community Involvement: Beyond monetary donations, Gilbert frequently engages in community activities and supports local charities.
Avid Outdoorsman
Gilbert's love for the outdoors influences his music and provides a unique perspective.
- Hunting and Fishing: Enjoying hunting and fishing in his free time, Gilbert finds inspiration in nature, often reflected in his lyrics.
Live Performances
Known for his high-energy live shows, Gilbert's performances are a standout in the industry.
- High-Energy Shows: Incorporating elements of rock music, his live performances are energetic and engaging.
- Collaborations: He has performed with various artists, including Lynyrd Skynyrd, for events like CMT Crossroads.
Awards and Nominations
Gilbert's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations throughout his career.
- Country Music Association Awards: Nominated for New Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for "Dirt Road Anthem."
- Academy of Country Music Awards: Won New Male Vocalist of the Year in 2012 and received subsequent nominations for New Artist of the Year.
- iHeartRadio Music Awards: Won the Renegade Award in 2015, recognizing his unique style and contributions to country music.
Impact on Country Music
Gilbert's unique sound and relatable lyrics have made a significant impact on the country music scene.
- Unique Sound: His blend of country rock resonates with fans from all walks of life, making him one of the most popular country artists today.
- Relatable Lyrics: His songs often depict small-town life and values, making his music authentic and relatable.
Debut Album
Gilbert's debut album showcased his distinctive style and songwriting abilities.
- Modern Day Prodigal Son: Released in 2009, this album quickly gained recognition within the country music industry.
Albums and Singles
Gilbert's albums and singles have consistently topped charts and garnered widespread acclaim.
- Halfway to Heaven: This album featured hit singles like "Country Must Be Country Wide," solidifying Gilbert's status as a rising star.
- Just as I Am: The lead single, "Bottoms Up," reached number one on the Billboard country charts, followed by "Small Town Throwdown" and "One Hell of an Amen."
The Devil Don't Sleep
Gilbert's third Valory album continued his streak of successful releases.
- Lead Single: The album's lead single, "The Weekend," was a hit, and the album included other notable tracks like "The Ones That Like Me."
Fire & Brimstone
This album marked a significant shift in Gilbert's career, exploring themes of faith and redemption.
- Release Date: Released in 2018, Fire & Brimstone delved into personal and spiritual themes.
So Help Me God
Gilbert's sixth studio album featured a mix of upbeat tracks and heartfelt ballads.
- Release Date: Released in 2020, So Help Me God showcased Gilbert's versatility as an artist.
Tattoos
Gilbert's tattoos are a significant part of his identity, reflecting his beliefs and values.
- Second Amendment Tattoo: The tattoo featuring the Second Amendment text above two large guns is one of Gilbert's most recognizable symbols.
Support for the NRA
Gilbert's commitment to Second Amendment rights is evident through his public statements and actions.
- NRA's Country Concert: In February 2023, Gilbert headlined the NRA's Country Concert, demonstrating his support for gun rights.
USO Tour
Gilbert's dedication to entertaining American service members showcases his support for the military.
- Entertaining Service Members: In 2013, Gilbert embarked on an eight-day USO tour to entertain American service members stationed in Italy and Kuwait.
Near-Fatal Truck Accident
A significant personal struggle, Gilbert's near-fatal truck accident had a profound impact on his life.
- Personal Struggle: At 19, Gilbert was involved in a near-fatal truck accident, which he has spoken about publicly.
Faith in Music
Gilbert's Christian faith influences his music, adding depth and meaning to his songs.
- Christian Faith: An active Christian, Gilbert's song "My Faith In You" from Just as I Am speaks of his faith and its influence on his music.
CMT Crossroads
Gilbert's collaboration with Lynyrd Skynyrd on CMT Crossroads was a career highlight.
- Collaboration with Lynyrd Skynyrd: Thanks to CMT Crossroads, Gilbert and rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd joined forces for epic performances of each other's hits, including "Sweet Home Alabama."
Performance Videos
Gilbert's performance videos have garnered critical acclaim and numerous nominations.
- CMT Music Awards Nominations: Nominated for Performance Video of the Year for his collaboration with Lynyrd Skynyrd in CMT Crossroads.
BMI Country Awards
Gilbert's songwriting talents have been recognized with awards from BMI.
- Top 50 Songs: Won the BMI Country Award for Top 50 Songs for his hit single "The Weekend."
CMT Music Awards Nominations
Gilbert's collaborations have earned him several nominations at the CMT Music Awards.
- Collaborative Video of the Year: Nominated for Collaborative Video of the Year for his performance with Lindsay Ell in "What Happens In A Small Town."
High School Relationship
Before marrying Amber Cochran, Gilbert was engaged to actress Jana Kramer.
- Engagement to Jana Kramer: Engaged in 2013, but the couple split shortly after.
Badass Anniversary Present
Gilbert's wife, Amber Cochran, knows how to give memorable gifts.
- Polaris ATV Gift: For their one-year anniversary, Cochran gifted Gilbert a Polaris ATV, which he described as "badass."
Teaching Godson to Shoot a Gun
Gilbert believes in teaching gun safety from a young age.
- Training Young: In a video shared on his Facebook page, Gilbert taught his godson Cam how to shoot a gun, emphasizing the importance of training young.
Gun Safety Advocacy
Gilbert's advocacy for gun rights is a significant part of his public persona.
- Support for Gun Rights: His tattoos and public statements reflect his belief in the importance of self-defense.
Community Involvement
Gilbert is actively involved in local charities and community events.
- Local Charity Work: Beyond his music career, Gilbert demonstrates his commitment to giving back through local charity work.
Personal Stories in Songs
Many of Gilbert's songs are inspired by his life experiences, making his music relatable and authentic.
- Inspiration from Life: Personal stories about faith, family, and rural upbringing often inspire Gilbert's songs.
Fan Favorite Songs
Certain tracks have become fan favorites, often inspiring sing-alongs at his live shows.
- Take It Outside: The high-energy track "Take It Outside" is a fan favorite, often inspiring sing-alongs at live shows.
Compilation Album
Gilbert's compilation album showcases his biggest hits and fan favorites.
- The Best of Brantley Gilbert: Released in 2020, this album serves as a testament to his successful career.
Rise to Stardom
Gilbert's journey from a small town in Georgia to becoming a popular country artist is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
- From Small Town to Stardom: Gilbert's rise to fame highlights his determination and talent, making him a standout in the country music industry.
Brantley Gilbert: A Country Rock Icon
Brantley Gilbert's journey from a small-town Georgia boy to a country rock superstar is nothing short of inspiring. His unique blend of country and rock, combined with relatable lyrics, has earned him a dedicated fan base and numerous awards. Gilbert's personal struggles, like his near-fatal truck accident and battles with addiction, have shaped his music, making it authentic and heartfelt. His philanthropic efforts, such as his $10.5 million donation to Toys for Tots, and his support for the military, highlight his commitment to giving back. Whether it's his high-energy live shows, his tattoos symbolizing his beliefs, or his songs inspired by personal stories, Brantley Gilbert continues to leave a significant mark on the country music scene. His legacy is one of resilience, authenticity, and a deep connection to his roots and fans.
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