Trace Adkins’ Life makes for a great Country Music song. Trace Adkins, 62, emerged onto the country music scene in 1996 when he released his debut album, Dreamin’ Out Loud. With a career spanning decades, Adkins has not only cemented his place as a country music icon but also as a man of resilience and authenticity. From his humble beginnings in Louisiana to the heights of Nashville stardom, Adkins’ journey is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance.
Trace Adkins’ Life: Early Days and Background
Born on January 13, 1962, in Sarepta, Louisiana, Tracy Darrell Adkins grew up in a small-town setting that greatly influenced his music. His love for music began at a young age, learning to play the guitar and singing in his high school gospel choir. Adkins attended Louisiana Tech University, where he studied petroleum technology, but music always remained his true passion.
Saying that the country star is no stranger to injury is an extreme understatement— his history of mishaps goes back to his youth. At the tender age of 17, Adkins was involved in an automobile accident in which his 1955 pickup truck smashed into the back of an empty school bus. This incident resulted in a punctured lung, fractured ribs, and the tip of his nose being ripped off and then reattached.
Breakthrough in Country Music
Adkins moved to Nashville in the early 1990s to chase his dream of becoming a country music artist. His big break came in 1996 with the release of his debut album, Dreamin’ Out Loud. The album featured hit singles like “Every Light in the House,” “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing,” and “I Left Something Turned On at Home,” which quickly put Adkins on the map as a rising star.
Over the years, Adkins built a reputation for his rich storytelling, heartfelt ballads, and upbeat anthems. His ability to connect with fans through songs like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” “You’re Gonna Miss This,” and “Arlington” showcased his versatility and depth as an artist.
In 1994 the crooner was shot in the chest by his second wife, Julie Curtis. The pair got into an epic fight over Trace’s drinking habits and his wife grabbed the family’s handgun and as he told People in a 1997 interview, “Being a macho guy like I am, I tried to scare it out of her hand,” he explained. “I said, ‘Give me the gun, or I’m gonna take it away from you and beat your damn brains out with it.’ I would never have done that, but I told her in hopes that it would scare her.” Instead the gun went off. “[The bullet] went through both my lungs and both ventricles of my heart,” stated Adkins. Surprisingly enough, the singer didn’t press charges against Curtis and the couple divorced after three years of marriage.
Two broken marriages didn’t deter the singer from getting hitched again. In 1997, Adkins married Rhonda Forlaw, a former publicity manager at Arista Records who helped catapult Trace to country music fame. The pair have three daughters together Mackenzie, Brianna, and Trinity. The couple split up for good when Rhonda filed for divorce in early 2014. Trace and Rhonda moved the divorce proceedings out of the public eye and officially settled up during private mediation in mid-2015.
Trace Adkins and Victoria Pratt tied the knot on October 12, 2019, in a romantic ceremony officiated by Adkins’ longtime friend and fellow country music icon, Blake Shelton. The wedding, held in an intimate outdoor setting, celebrated the couple’s love surrounded by close family and friends. Trace and Victoria, a Canadian actress, had been together for several years before saying “I do.” Their relationship blossomed through mutual respect and shared values, adding a new chapter to Adkins’ life after overcoming personal and professional challenges. The couple often shares glimpses of their happy life together, showcasing their chemistry and joy on social media and public appearances.
Acting and Television Career
In addition to his music, Adkins has made a name for himself in television and film. He appeared in movies like The Lincoln Lawyer and I Can Only Imagine and lent his voice to animated projects. Adkins also won The Celebrity Apprentice in 2013, showcasing his business acumen and philanthropic spirit.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Adkins has long been an advocate for U.S. veterans and active-duty military personnel. His song “Arlington” is a poignant tribute to fallen soldiers, and he has performed countless times for troops overseas. His commitment to giving back has solidified his reputation as not just a talented artist but also a compassionate individual.
In 2019, Trace was busy headlining his Don’t Stop Tour with fellow country star Clint Black.
Trace Adkins continues to release music and perform, with his 2021 album The Way I Wanna Go highlighting his enduring relevance in the country music scene. The album features collaborations with artists like Luke Bryan and Pitbull, showing Adkins’ willingness to innovate while staying true to his roots.
With a career marked by highs and lows, Trace Adkins remains a symbol of perseverance and authenticity in country music. His deep voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the industry, ensuring his legacy as one of country music’s most beloved figures.
