TRACE ADKINS
Proud To Be Here
In the fifteen years since his platinum debut, Trace Adkins has released ten studio albums, three greatest hits packages, thirty chart singles. He has racked up four Grammy nominations, five ACM and CMT awards. Accolades like that – along with sales in the tens of millions – explain the respect Adkins has earned from both Country fans and the industry alike.
But there’s more. In recent years, Trace has made his mark as a TV and film actor, a voiceover artist, an author, a social commentator, a participant on NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice — and even the inspiration for a series of comic books.
Along the way, Trace has endured his share of well-publicized tribulations and the release of his latest album – Proud To Be Here – would be saddled with the same loss (and luck) that have shadowed Trace all his life. In June of 2011, as the finishing touches were being made to the upcoming album, the Nashville-area home Adkins shared with his wife and three of his five daughters was entirely destroyed by fire. True to form, Trace thought first of his family’s safety, then steered the outpouring of fan’s support toward the Red Cross…then got back to work.
Adkins’ strength, focus and passion for fully-lived life infuse every bit of his new project. Proud To Be Here is the perfect distillation of Trace’s art, displaying once again his ability to pour emotional truth into his music, whether it is of the tender or the rowdy variety. The project celebrates committed love in songs like “Million Dollar View,” “That’s What You Get,” and “Always Gonna Be That Way,” the joys of the simple life in “Days Like This” and “Poor Folks,” the lighter side in “It’s A Woman Thang” and “Love Buzz,” and life’s highest priorities in “It’s Who You Know.”
“There’s so much on this record that’s autobiographical,” says the man with the soul-stirring baritone. “I draw from the best writers in town, and time after time they capture things I’ve experienced.”
The CD’s title track is a case in point.
“Chris Wallin, Aaron Barker and Ira Dean wrote that song for me,” he says. “I’ve been close to death several times in my life, and they know me well enough to know what I’ve carried away from that.”
Perhaps nowhere, though, do life and art come together as poignantly as they do with the project’s first single, “Just Fishin’.” The ode to father-daughter togetherness captures Trace’s own approach to fatherhood—he taught his daughters to fish—and the video, filmed at the family’s farm, where the family moved after the fire, features his youngest, Trinity.
“I think the reason she was so comfortable in the video,” he says, “is because it’s her place. It has been all her life. All of these people with the cameras and equipment were coming for a play day at her farm and that’s the way we approached it.”
In addition to the ten songs on the regular CD, fans wanting more can purchase a 14-song deluxe edition including four more tracks—two penned by Trace—or a 16-song package including those four plus two live cuts available at Target stores. The additional songs include Trace’s “Semper Fi,” dedicated to the Marine Corps, and “If I Was a Woman,” a hilarious duet with buddy Blake Shelton, who teamed with Trace for the chart-topping “Hillbilly Bone.”
For all but the first single, which was produced by Michael Knox, Trace worked with co-producers Mark Wright and Kenny Beard.
“Kenny was tireless in finding songs and in forcing me to put my nose to the grindstone, which resulted in me writing more than I would have otherwise,” he says. “And once we were in the studio, he’s just so much fun to work with because he loves the process and it’s contagious. This was the first time I got to work with Mark in the studio, and I really liked his level of participation. He’s on the musicians’ side of the glass, putting himself in the center of the room, and I think that helps cement a feeling of teamwork.”
The album is the latest in a career that continues to soar. With “Just Fishin’,” Trace adds to a collection of hits that includes modern classics like “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing,” “Then They Do,” “Hot Mama,” “Songs About Me,” “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” “Ladies Love Country Boys” and “You’re Gonna Miss This.” It extends a journey that began in his hometown of Sarepta, Louisiana, and led through college football, the offshore oil fields of the Gulf of Mexico, the region’s honky-tonks and finally to Nashville, where he was signed while playing in a small club in a working-class neighborhood.
His stardom, which includes membership in the Grand Ole Opry, is of the multi-media variety. He has received the fan-voted Top Video of the Year award three times on GAC, “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” was voted #2 Video of the Decade by CMT, and Trace has been voted “Country’s Sexiest Man” by the readers of Country Weekly. He has turned his entertainingly articulated views on a variety of current topics into a seat on any number of TV talk shows, and into a well-received book, A Personal Stand: Obervations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck. He has narrated any number of TV documentaries and has been a commercial spokesman for products ranging from Kentucky Fried Chicken to BC Headache Powder. The comic book character he inspired, McBain, was featured in four well-received editions.
Trace has appeared in many TV shows, including “King of the Hill” and “My Name Is Earl,” and in movies ranging from 2008′s “An American Carol” to 2011′s “The Lincoln Lawyer.” He has performed often for military personnel, including two tours through the Middle East with the USO, which has given him its Merit Award. He has taken part in an “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” episode that rebuilt a home for a Dallas SWAT team member badly injured in a shooting, and he has performed in honor of those who died on United Airlines’ Flight 93 on 9/11. Trace raised three-quarters of a million dollars for the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network and is a spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Project. His charitable endeavors earned him the 2010 Artist Humanitarian Award from Country Radio Broadcasters.
Still, he knows where he is planted.
“There are times when my schedule can’t accommodate both music and the rest of what I do,” he says. “Would I ever focus more on that and walk away from what brought me to the dance? No. I’ve always chosen to stay with what I do best, and I think that’s the smartest thing I can do.”
His ever-growing legion of fans would surely concur.
–Rob Simbeck
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:14 am
Thank you so much for your “Just Fishin’” video. I cried the whole video. My husband has alsways taken our daughter fishing and it is such a special time for them. She is now a junior at the University of Alabama and while home visiting, she and her Daddy are on the river fishing as I type this. I believe these trips have made her the incredible woman she has become. Unlike many girls her age, who want the traditional female careers, mine wants to go to flight school and become an Army helicopter pilot, like her Dad and Grandfather. Thanks again for this video. I hope it sends the message of how important it is for men to spend quality time with their daughters. Maureen Trott
August 4th, 2011 at 1:25 am
I have to say thank you for your music. We lost a friend (SGT Christopher Wrinkle) in Afghanistan this weekend. My husband and I happened to catch the last half of “Semper Fi” on my XM radio today and searched all over town to find the deluxe edition cd. We purchased two of the basic editions only to learn that it wasn’t on that one. We bought two more deluxe edition ones just so each of us could have a copy of that song. The timing of this song is amazing for us and the rest of our friends. We have lost friends in the wars and it never gets any easier. My husband was severly injured in Iraq in Dec 06 and lost another dear friend in the very same attack. That young man is buried in Arlington, which makes the song “Arlington” so special to us as well. You will never know how much your music blesses so many. “Semper Fi” has become our anthem song for our most recent fallen friend in only a few short hours. SEMPER FI!
August 4th, 2011 at 6:00 pm
Love your new tribute to the Marines. I have a son that is a machine gunner in the Corps. This is his second deployment. Some times it seems the American public has forgotten the sacrifices these men and women make. You made me shed a few tears. Thank you.
August 4th, 2011 at 7:46 pm
A friend emailed me and told me there was a song that my husband (Disabled Marine)and myself needed to hear right away. She knowing that my husband is a big Trace Adkins fan. So we listen to it on my computer and with in seconds my husband had tears in his eyes. My husband was also injured in Iraq in 2008. And watched 2 of his buddies burn up alive right in front of him, and to this day has a hard time dealing with it. This song speaks exactly how Marines feel and act. There’s a saying “For Those Who Fought For It,
Freedom Has A Flavor The Protected Will Never Know” This is so true. Just wanted to say Thank You Trace!!!!!!
August 5th, 2011 at 11:45 am
Wish I could thank Trace. I always had one foot in Country, but strayed away. Then in 2003 my oldest daughter Jillian was going to go away to college when I heard Trace sing “Then they do”. I fell in love with Trace and Country Music once again and never get enough. Jillian has long since graduated, Tracy still trying to get through it all, but even though they are young women now 20′s nearing 30′s, you never stop worrying about them. Just like Trace’s “Songs about me” country music touches your heart and gets to the soul of it all. My father (“GP”, Grandpa) has ALWAYS been Country, 84 years old. Took him to see Trace when he came to the DuPage County Fair. Got him hooked on Trace now also. Thank you Trace and Country music.
August 6th, 2011 at 9:31 am
Trace,
Love the new album. I’m a classic rock kinda guy but have been listening to country for the past 19 years. It’s the only real music being made these days. It’s because of people like you I listen to country and proud to have you around. By the way love your funky “It’s a Woman Thang”!
Thanks Trace!
August 7th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
I just want to say thank you for releasing the song Semper Fi. I am a retired Canadian Air Force member and I have nothing but respect for those who serve their country. This song speaks directly to everyone who has ever put on the uniform and carried the flag in the service and defense of our freedom. Thank you to all the men and women and the families of those we have lost for the sacrifice they have made.
SEMPER FI!
August 7th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
Enjoyed the song Just Fishin. It makes me think about the time I need to spend with my kids and the time I have not spent. I really appreciate the trip y0u made to Afghanistan a few years back. I took the photos at one of the locations you visited and it meant a lot to me as well as the other troops there.
August 30th, 2011 at 9:42 pm
love Trace and his character, his music and his views! would love to say thanks to his wife and daughters for the sacrifices they must have endured so Trace can tour and let fans like me experience his shows which bring his music to a personal interaction that is very emotional and heartfelt. My favorites song on this newest album is “Thats What You Get” and from Coming On Strong; “then Came The Night” it has actually helped me get over a difficult event in my life. Trace’s music has blessed me and I hope his gets as much joy from making it as I do listening to him perform.
September 11th, 2011 at 3:10 pm
Trace
Just seen the Celebrity Apprentice for the first time, you are a star and a legend. Despite being British I couldn’t be more behind you against Piers. It is so rare to see such a grounded, honourable and passionate family man who happens to be a celebrity. You are an inspiration.
Kind regards,
Alex Harper
September 15th, 2011 at 11:50 pm
I absolutely love this new CD Proud to be Here. I pretty much listen to it every day while working it. You really help me with the workouts~I listen to it in the van. I can hardly wait to see you again in concert this October. Your a truely a heartfilled person filled with gold. Your song really have meaning behind all of them and I simply adore you. You love for music and your voice is out of this world. I appreciate all that you do for the troops and for America. God bless you and thanks for being the great cowboy you are inside and out. Love you TRACE!).
September 16th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
Arlington and now Semper Fi. As a Marine widow both of these songs just make me weep. A big thank you from all of us “widsters” Gold Star Wives – We cannot thank you enough for putting these songs out there. It is like you hold our hearts in your voice.
My son just got back from Ramstein, so he missed the 9/11 concert – but I thank you so much for going there this year for all of our troops and families.
September 19th, 2011 at 9:00 pm
went to see trace last night in hankinson, nd at dakota magic casino. the concert was awesome and i think he is the best entertainer out there…….he really gives to his fans. thanks trace love ya always
September 20th, 2011 at 11:32 pm
Trace
Thank you for Semper Fi. My brother was killed July 31 2011. He was a marine. I listen to this song a lot when I think about him. There aren’t words to express my gratitude to you for this song. A friend told me about while planning my brother’s services.
September 26th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
First of all I love your music. I have always been a fan, but now you are more special than ever. My son was one of the 11 that was killed on the Deep Water Horizon. Shane Roshto, 22
years old. I loved the video you sent to the Memorial. Thank you so much for taking the time to do that.
September 28th, 2011 at 9:47 am
I am surprising my husband with tickets to see Trace this Friday night (September 30th)! My husband has been through two deployments and currently is still serving our country. He has told me on several occasions that if he gets deployed again he is going to play Trace’s song “Baby, I’m Home” when they march in to see their families. That song will always have a special meaning for me. Looking forward to the concert this weekend.
September 30th, 2011 at 8:12 pm
We really had a great time when we went to your Aug.13,2011 concert at Cache Creek Casino.I first met you in 1997 so I have been a long time fan and my husband got to do the Meet n Greet and was very happy to see you and be able to give you a signed print of our youngest son’s unit in the US Army while they were in Iraq. I hope you were able to read the story behind this terrific unit and all that they do. My son appreciates all that you do for the Wounded Warrior Program. Many of his friends were lost or wounded and he thought you would like the print. We were blessed that our son came home to us. He received a Bronze Medal and Purple Heart and is still serving our Country. Keep up the great songs, I have to say you get better with the years. Your songs reach into our souls and are part of our lives. Mr. & Mrs. P
October 14th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
I just want to say thank you Trace. I got t see you in concert at Camp Arifjan Kuwait during my deployment. Your concert was one of the best moments of my time there and I will never forget it. Again thank you sooo much and I hope you go back to inspire and entertain more troops.
Sincerely,
SSG Janet Nuels
October 16th, 2011 at 9:03 am
It is incredibly difficult to choose a favorite song… However, when I discovered Semper Fi, the first thing I did was call my husband. You see, I am a Marine Wife and this song is amazing! Thank you for sharing your wonderful gift with all of us.
October 17th, 2011 at 6:33 pm
Trace
My husband and I laughed so hard when we heard your song with Blake. We also thought a video of you and Blake would be great for Damn you Bubba. Love your music!!!!!
October 19th, 2011 at 8:06 am
My husband and I heard your Semper Fi song last night. We laughed and hugged each other at the same time. He is 12yrs into his USMC career, with tours in both Afghanistan and Iraq. I am a permanently disabled USMC veteran. We absolutely love the song, and we are encouraging all our friends, and family to get the CD. Thank you Trace, it is nice to know we are not forgotten.
October 31st, 2011 at 11:34 am
I bet I have listened to your album a million times since I got it, but your song Day Like This has touched my heart and helped me get through some tough days. The stress of every day life can get to you – but I have found this song calms me down and helps me get through the day. The pleasure of meeting you in Biloxi meant the world to me. The fact that you so caringly take time for your fans tells the world what a fabulous person you are inside and out. Thank you for all you do to touch so many!
November 2nd, 2011 at 8:38 am
Before ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ aired on tv in the UK earlier this year, I had never heard of Trace Adkins. His performance of ‘You’re Gonna Miss This’ in the final show introduced me to his music, and from that moment I was hooked.
That song brings a lump to my throat every time I hear it; it really strikes a chord within me, and Trace’s voice reminds me of homespun country sunshine, blue jeans and pick-up trucks.
I just wanted to say thanks from the other side of the pond.
January 1st, 2012 at 12:45 pm
that was a good video
January 7th, 2012 at 1:47 pm
how could you trace i mean driven drunk!!!!!!!!
January 8th, 2012 at 3:53 pm
Dear Trace,
I was watching Ch 27 today and surprisingly thrilled to see you taking a water survival class at Occupational Safety, New Iberia, La today. I worked the Gulf Of Mexico for at least 30 years and also saw that you were taking a class that I used to teach there. The Roustabout was 100 % accurate, and a great view.
After 30 years as an electrician, pumper, I&E tech and finally an electrician for EXXON Co USA, I ended up teaching HSE.
I am telling all my friends about the show and definately want to thank you for a great view.
Al Trautman
Lydia, LA
January 13th, 2012 at 4:55 am
Dear Trace,
Of course: Happy Birthday! Hope you have a nice day, with your loveones.
Are there any plans that you will do some concerts or small performances in Europe? There are some fans here to you know! (My husband went to Toby Keiths show in Paradiso Amsterdam….. so we do love our countrysongs here! My friends all have our own taste in that, but you are my favourit!)
Greetings from Netherlands, Saskia
January 14th, 2012 at 7:35 pm
I know every single word to “Your Gonna Miss This” it’s AWESOME!!! Actually, ALL of your songs are AWESOME!!!!!
January 15th, 2012 at 11:51 pm
Trace, I have followed your career from the very beginning gone to many of your concerts. I love your music and try to catch everything you appear on in T.V. I have read your book. Due to the economy I am unable to catch your concerts much anymore but just want you to know I have all your albums and you are awesome and continue to remain a real person.
Thank You
Sharon