Colt Ford

Growing up listening to country greats such as Kenny Rogers and Dolly patron, alongside a love of R&B and hip hop, Colt Ford's blend of country and rap is a natural reflection of the influences he grew up with. However, things could have been very different for Ford, who had initially found success as a professional golfer, competing on the Nationwide Tour.

He released his debut album, "Ride Through the Country" in December 2008, distributed through Average Joe's Entertainment, a label he had co-founded. Ford achieved early success with the single, "Ride Through the Country" which debuted at number 57 on the Hot Country Songs chart in 2009.

Ford toured frequently, finding success outside of the Nashville scene. Being a sensible businessman, Ford created his larger-than-life redneck public image, helping to raise his fame and popularity. in 2010, he released his second record, "Chicken and Biscuits." This was followed by "Every Chance I Get" in 2011, with the album's lead single "Country Thang" reaching number 55 on the Country Chart.

It was with his fourth album, "Declaration of Independence," (2012) that Ford was to achieve his first number one album, reaching the top spot on the Top Country Albums chart. The album also featured his highest charting single, "Back," a duet with Jake Owen, which reached the Top 40. Alongside his solo recordings, Ford has also collaborated with artists including Jeffrey Steele, Craig Wiseman, rapper Bone Crusher and Jermaine Dupri. His Fifth album "Thanks for Listening" came out in the summer of 2014.