Keith Urban has had our attention since the day he arrived in Nashville and it’s no question as to why – this handsome singer, songwriter, record producer, guitar prodigy, TV Judge, and musician (phew!) has amassed a huge following, multiple number one’s, and has helped in countless organizations. Our Aussie Crush is this week’s #MCM!
The Guitar Prodigy: The “Wasted Time” singer was born in Whangarei, New Zealand (NOT Australia) in October of 1967, moving at the age of 13 with his parents and a brother to Australia. But when he turned 15, he dropped out of high school to pursue his music career. He began guitar lessons, then taught himself how to play “House of The Rising Sun,” and began entering competitions. Now he’s become one of country music’s leading guitar men. Even more impressive – this guitar prodigy has played with Mark Knopfler from Dire Straits and Lindsay Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac.
The Australian Import’s Impact On Music City: Once Urban arrived in the US he began his ventures into music by being a road guitarist for Brooks and Dunn, Dixie Chicks, and Alan Jackson. While he may have been considered a touring guitarist, Urban’s quite an accomplished musician, playing vast amount of instruments; guitar, bass guitar, drums, keyboard, banjo, mandolin, piano, and sitar. He’s also a songwriter, co-writing songs for others like Toby Keith’s “Jesus Gets Jealous of Santa Claus,” which appeared on Keith’s 1995 Christmas album Christmas to Christmas. Urban was one third of country trio The Ranch (releasing one album), but his solo career has known no bounds – his nine studio albums, four compilation albums, and more than 40 singles. He’s won countless awards from Favorite Male Performer to at least four Grammy’s. His tours have been absolutely amazing and full of high energy, giving his fans what they want and sometimes the unexpected (including a guitar for one lucky fan).
And last but definitely not least, in 2012 he was surprised by Vince Gill, Rascal Flatts, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Diamond Rio during the third annual All For The Hall benefit concert with an invite to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
That Hair!: Urban’s hair is as iconic as his guitars. While his hair styles early in his career varied, the straight, salon-perfect shag that frames his boyish good looks has become his signature. But then, in 2013, the unthinkable happened – Urban chopped off those luscious locks for a more tight, clean-cut look. While he still was as handsome as ever, we’re relieved to see that it’s been growing back in ever since.
The Rise of the Phoenix: Urban, with all his fame, awards, and devoted fans, once lead a hard edged life where he battled addictions with drugs and alcohol. Thankfully after rehab and the love of a good woman he was able to turn his life around. Much like a phoenix rising from the burning ash, it’s no coincidence that Urban has the mythical bird on his left arm, a symbol and reminder that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
And that good woman is his beautiful wife of 10 years, actress and fellow Aussie Nicole Kidman. The love they share is pure and strong; when the duo is photographed, there is a look of utter admiration on their faces as they look at each other. Urban has been known to refer to his relationship with Nicole has his “sobriety” and in his raw, honest song “Thank You,” expressed exactly how deep his gratitude for her presence in his life to the world.
Heart of Gold: The singer has also shown his softer side with his countless charities. He’s involved with the Mr. Hollands Opus Fund and the Grammy Foundation, both founded to help keep music in schools. In 2013, he introduced the URBAN Guitar Collection via HSN, where all the proceeds go to the aforementioned charities. Other charities include, but are not limited to: Habitat for Humanity, St. Jude’s, where he’s on the advisory board, ACM Lifing Lives, City of Hope, MusiCares, and he has helped raise over 2.6 million for “All for the Hall” benefit concerts held to support the Country Music Hall of a Fame. His hard, selfless work has not gone unnoticed as this past February, Urban was awarded the Country Radio Broadcasters’ 2016 Artist Humanitarian Award.
Keith is by far an all around One Of A Kind Incredible Human Being. God Bless Nicole for Giving Him Rebirth!!!
Keith is a Wonderful down to earth man. I have followed his music since the Ranch and I love all his music.Keith is absolutely insane to watch live, he is, in my opinion, the best entertainer out there. He gives his fans a show that they will never forget and leaves us begging for more. Keith is one of a kind and that’s why we love him.