Brian Kelley, the former member of Florida Georgia Line, unveils his solo album "Tennessee Truth," an ode to his deep Tennessee roots, family, and the simple joys of life.
Brian Kelley, the former Florida Georgia Line star, has embarked on a solo journey with the release of his new album, "Tennessee Truth." The album, as Kelley tells Fox News Digital, is a testament to his deep Tennessee heritage, his love for family, and the appreciation for the simple joys of life.
Kelley, who has strong ties to Tennessee through his family and childhood memories, explains that his album is a tribute to those roots. "One of my Tennessee truths is that my father was born in Tennessee and moved to Nashville when he was about 2 years old," he says. "And I've got tons of aunts, uncles, cousins, family members out in Gallatin, Hendersonville area. And, so, No. 1, kind of the first Tennessee truth is, you know, this is this record’s a tribute to my deep Tennessee roots in my family."
In addition to his heritage, Kelley's love for his family has been a driving force in his life and music. He shares his gratitude for their unwavering support and the special time they spend together, whether it's a "lake day" or simply enjoying each other's presence. "My wife Brittney, our family time together with our extended family means the world to me," he says. "I pull lyrics from my lifestyle of being in the woods or in the water. That's where typically you can find me unless we're on the road somewhere."
Kelley believes that his music resonates with listeners because it is authentic and relatable. He aims to convey the message that despite life's challenges, there is always joy to be found in embracing the present and surrounding oneself with loved ones. "My Tennessee truth is that, you know, I'm no different than those that are going to be jamming this record," he explains. "Like I mentioned, you know, we're in the same headspace on what our values are and how we navigate our life through fishing, hunting, the love of our lives, of family time, you know, God. We love this country. And we're hard workers."
Prior to his solo career, Kelley was part of Florida Georgia Line, which went on an indefinite hiatus in 2022. Kelley admits that he had initially hoped to continue the duo while simultaneously pursuing his solo aspirations. However, he recognizes that life can present unexpected challenges and is grateful for the opportunity to focus on his own music. "For me, it was really, you know, I was really pushing to keep it all together and, and at the same time, you know, it's just life," he explains. "And so, really, man, I just took that curveball, really, and put it into work, you know? I really just reframed my whole mindset on, you know, how I want to make this record."
Kelley's solo journey has allowed him to experiment with new sounds and express his unique perspective. His album includes songs like "Trucks, Ducks, Bucks and Beer," "King Ranch," and "10 O’Clock on the Dock," all of which embody his love for the outdoors, family, and the simple pleasures of life. "At the end of the day, my music is always about just loving and living life to its fullest, you know what I'm saying? And working hard, having something to look forward to," he says.
While some speculate that Kelley's song "Kiss My Boots" contains veiled references to his former bandmate Tyler Hubbard, Kelley insists that the lyrics are not specifically directed at him. He explains that the song was inspired by a collective list of people who have wronged him and others in the music industry. "You did me wrong" and "here’s a middle finger to you through this song" are lyrics that have sparked such speculation, but Kelley maintains that they are merely reflective of his experiences. "When we landed on that song, No. 1, it's all about being patient and really, no pun intended, finding the truth in every session, every day," he says.
Kelley expresses his gratitude for the years he spent with Florida Georgia Line, acknowledging the growth and experience he gained from the partnership. He holds out hope for a possible future reunion but is focused on connecting with fans, sharing his story, and showcasing his authentic voice in his solo career. "I wouldn't have done anything differently," he says of his time with Florida Georgia Line. "I'm really proud of the efforts that I put in to trying to keep this thing together. It didn't necessarily go the way that I thought it could go and grow, but that's OK, you know? People are allowed to have different opinions, and things can always circle back if that happens. So, you know, I hold a little bit of excitement for that. But, no, I wouldn't do anything different."
"Tennessee Truth," a testament to Kelley's roots, family, and love of life, is now available for listeners to connect with its authentic and relatable message.
