Before the Fame: A Young Luke Combs Proves He Was Always Destined for Greatness With a Luke Bryan Cover for the Ages
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
On June 14th, Luke Combs released his fifth studio album, “Fathers & Sons,” to immense praise from fans. The album, which delves into themes of fatherhood and the cherished memories formed along the way, showcases Combs’ continued dominance in the country music genre. However, before Combs shared the stage with icons like Tracy Chapman or released his first studio album, he was a college student navigating the uncertain path of his future. It was during these formative years that the world began to witness the undeniable talent of Luke Combs.
While attending Appalachian State University, Combs split his time between studying and performing at local bars. In his quest to carve out a place in the music industry, the budding singer chose to cover Luke Bryan’s hit song, “I Don’t Want This Night To End.” For Bryan, the song was already a radio sensation, but for Combs, it marked the beginning of a remarkable career. Alongside him was his friend, Adam Church, who has since continued his own musical journey and even made an appearance in Combs’ music video for “Doin’ This.”
Their performance of Bryan’s song resonated deeply with fans, amassing over 300,000 likes and a slew of heartfelt comments. One admirer wrote, “This ole boy went from a little known cover singer to a well-known country star. People in the next generation will talk about how great of a singer you were and I know it.” Another added, “This dude is amazing he took an upbeat song and made it into a really chill, relaxed song and I love it. Major props, dude.”
Luke Combs Recalls Spending Time With Willie Nelson
As his career skyrocketed, Combs found himself in the company of some of country music’s biggest legends. One memorable encounter took place with Willie Nelson, a moment Combs fondly recalled on The Dale Jr. Download podcast. He humorously recounted visiting Nelson’s home in Hawaii, a surreal experience that began in an unassuming garage.
“I walked down the hallway in the garage and it’s only Willie Nelson in there. There’s nobody else in there. It’s this garage room, and he’s just sitting there watching TV on this little TV above the refrigerator sitting at the poker table. I walk in just holding this thing of beer, he was just like ‘Oh, hey man.’”
Despite the initial shock, Combs described the interaction as comfortably natural. “There was no like, who are you? What’s going on? And we just talked for 20-some odd minutes and nobody was in there…”
These stories from Combs’ past not only highlight his journey to stardom but also underscore the authenticity and raw talent that have endeared him to fans worldwide. From college bars to the grand stages of country music, Luke Combs’ rise is a testament to his enduring talent and the unyielding support of his fans.
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