The following is written by the fabulous Sue Guynn and it appeared in this week’s edition of 72 Hours. Enjoy!
Country music singer-songwriter Lee Brice will close out the grandstand entertainment at The Great Frederick Fair on Saturday.
His current single, “Boy,” has spent 12 weeks on the Billboard country music chart and is the first single from his forthcoming self-titled album set to release in November. Brice’s other hits include “I Don’t Dance,” “I Drive Your Truck,” “Hard to Love,” “That Don’t Sound Like You,” “Love Like Crazy,” “A Woman Like You” and “Parking Lot Party.”
Brice also co-wrote “More Than a Memory” recorded by Garth Brooks and the first song ever to debut at No. 1 on the country chart, and “Crazy Girl,” recorded by the Eli Young Band and Billboard’s Year-End Top Country Song of 2011.
In the studio, he’s gone from not knowing how to “get the sounds out of me” to producing his current album, “I Don’t Dance,” and wanting to control every element. Brice played just about every instrument and was co-producer on his upcoming album.
72 Hours caught up with Lee Brice via email to talk about music, fatherhood and Folds of Honor, a charity for the families of wounded or fallen veterans. Earlier this month, Brice hosted a concert and a clay shoot for this charity with the events raising more than $100,000 for Folds of Honor.
You’ve been to Frederick before (I saw you at the 99.9 WFRE Party in the Park on July 4 a few years ago), and you’ve probably played a ton of fairs around the country. The Great Frederick Fair is an agricultural fair (4-H and FFA) with a midway of rides and games. So, when you are at a fair, any things you like to do while you are waiting for show time?
I love people watching. You see some great “life vignettes” at fairs. It’s “heartland” and “family” and a place where so many of us have made great childhood memories. I don’t have a favorite fair food, but I love the smell of funnel cakes and popcorn in that environment.
I’m a mom, so I know that having kids changes your life … forever. How has being a dad of three changed your perspective on life, career, etc.?
It’s refined my priorities. I’ve got a few songs on my new album that speak to this. Everything I do now is about my family. They’re the most important things in the world to me.
I really like the single “Boy” and the video. Looks like your boys are “real boys!” Do you see yourself in your sons in the things they do and how they act?
I absolutely see myself in their mannerisms, curiosity, creativity and energy. I’m grateful for their health and that I get to be their daddy.
You’re episode of “Celebrity Family Feud” aired recently. It’s easy to come up with answers on the couch at home, but what was it like being a contestant?
Being on set with Steve Harvey, Jerrod Niemann’s family and my amazing family was so much fun! It was all about teamwork, and you’re right: It is a lot easier to come up with answers from the couch at home.
Why did you select Folds of Honor as your charity?
Folds of Honor funds educational scholarships for the families of wounded and fallen service men and women. I am grateful for those who serve our country — especially those who have given their lives. It’s the ultimate sacrifice.
Tell us about your upcoming album. Did/are you producing it? Some favorite tracks?
My new album is self-titled and is out Nov. 3. I co-produced it, and I’ve put 15 songs on it. The first radio single is called “Boy,” which I recorded for my sons, Takoda and Ryker. The creative process was fun — I played a majority of the instruments on the record. The songs range from soulful and Southern-feeling to upbeat and rousing. I love each one. The entire album reflects where I am today and all the experiences and people who shaped me. I can’t wait for you to hear it!
This Q&A has been edited for space and clarity.
