With a more traditional music style that distinguishes him from many of his contemporaries, Dierks Bentley is recognized as one of the well-known country music superstars. His songs contain traditional themes of lost love, cheating and drinking. Traces of Outlaw country style with Western Swing influences in one of his most popular singles, “Lot of leavin' left to do” can be seen. Multiple Award winner and widely acclaimed artist, Dierks Bentley gives electrifying solo performances and collaborates with other country musicians on his memorable tours and concerts.
Early Beginnings
Born and brought up in Phoenix in a non-musical family, Dierks Bentley got his country music education himself. His passion and love for country music made him move to Nashville when he was nineteen only. Despite the difficulties coming in his way, his passion kept him going and he finally landed a job at TNN Television Network. He did classic country music research in the day and worked on his demos at night struggling to be recognized.
Professional Music Career
Bentley released his self-titled debut album in 2003 with Capitol Records. Its first single What Was I Thinkin' peaked at number one on Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks. Next two singles My Last Name and How Am I Doin' peaked at number 17 and number 4 respectively. The album was certified Platinum establishing Bentley's status as a quickly emerging country star.
Released in 2005, his second album Modern Day Drifter featured two number one singles and was also certified Platinum. His third album, Long Trip Alone produced two number 1 hits and its title track peaked at number 10 on country charts. It was certified gold. He released his first greatest hits album, Every Mile a Memory 2003-2008 in 2008 and followed it by the release of Feel That Fire in 2009, bluegrass-themed Up on the Ridge in 2010 and Home in 2012. His eighth album Riser is scheduled to be released in late 2013.
Bentley has performed with many other country artists several times which includes his renowned performance at “Big State Festival” at Texas World Speedway. Another memorable event includes his performance at historic Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida in 2007. He performed two songs before start of race and delivered his famous words “Gentlemen, start your engines” kicking off Bud Shootout. He also frequently performs with Cross Canadian Ragweed.
Awards and Honors
Bentley has received many accolades for his impressive country music performances. He won CMT Music Award in 2004 for Breakthrough Video of the Year and again in 2009 for Performance of the Year, Academy of Country Music Award for Top New artist in 2004 and Horizon Award by Country Music Association in 2005. He has been nominated for ten Grammy Awards, six Country Music Association Awards, one CMT Music Award and one American Country Music Award.
Dierks Bentley Live
Dierks Bentley's electrifying live concerts are an absolute joy to attend. His catchy tunes, powerful lyrics and infectious melodies are widely liked by fans. His sold-out tours and concerts have established his stature as a widely acclaimed country music superstar. He has also collaborated with numerous country music stars on his tours. His famous Locked and Loaded Tour in 2007 featured Miranda Lambert and Eric Church. For his American Saturday Night Tour in 2009, he collaborated with Brad Paisley and Jimmy Wayne. During his performance at Country Thunder in Randall, he showed his appreciation for his fans by driving around the show grounds, signing autographs, interacting with people and even shot gunning a beer with some fans.