If an artist can weave a new and much-needed sound into country music, it might be Curt Chambers. The Philidelphia native developed his unique guitar and vocal sound growing up in the city’s urban churches.

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In fact, Chambers wasn’t permitted to listen to secular music until his teens. “I grew up in a strict household and wasn’t allowed to listen to secular music,” said Chambers as we sat outside recording this episode. “Most of my early musical influences came from those who played in our church. They weren’t  household names, but in my opinion, those musicians are some of my musical heroes because they were amazing.”

“Amazing” is one of many adjectives or phrases that describe Chambers. Another that comes to mind is “talented beyond comprehension.” I literally stumbled upon this Grammy Award-winning and vastly accomplished performer while researching new artists earlier this year. A couple of weeks later, we sat down behind Moo Country boutique in Leiper’s Fork, TN, to chat about his life and listen to him play acoustic versions of his songs.

It’s obvious this Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter has a bright future and will leave his own mark on the Country and Americana genre. In fact, my hopes are he helps change the direction of country music.

Grammy winner Curt Chambers tells his musical story on the Southern Americana podcast (Photo credit: Ashley Hylbert/2020)

When Curt arrived for our interview, I had to tease him about being late. He forgot to check his calendar, not realizing our early afternoon appointment. His manager tracked him down while taking a friend to the airport, so about an hour later, he arrived for his first visit to Leiper’s Fork. I was also thrilled that he brought along his guitar. Trust me; you’ll never be disappointed when Curt Chambers picks up a guitar. Combined with his soulful vocals while playing “Man Like Me,” it’s easy to see how Chambers’ fantastic playing and singing style form the primary ingredients for a successful musical recipe. 

A track titled “Good Thing” is his latest release, the third of three songs Curt played and sang on this episode.

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In addition to his ability to deliver captivating performances, Chambers is an accomplished songwriter, having penning hits with the likes of Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Lenny Kravitz.  
 
Chambers explained his writing style varies, depending on whether he hears a melody or is motivated by a line rolling around in a mind that is constantly thinking about a captivating chorus. “Some record executives are willing to take a chance on new artists, and they are the trendsetters,” explained Chambers. Those are the people I want to be in front of. I also love to sit and play music for people.”
 
2020 created some anxiety in the music industry, with tours and live music venues temporarily shut down because of coronavirus precautions. Now that Nashville-area venues are once again hosting live performances, you might catch Chambers and some of his musical friends at places like The Local and Whiskey Jam. In the meantime, listen to our full conversation and download Curt’s newest songs on Apple, Spotify, and other streaming platforms.