Inspire Me Tuesday – An Introduction

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about why I choose to be an artist. To put it simply, I want to give reason to why I chose this path. When I think back to why I got into music, the answer is simple: I’m inspired by so many artists around me. This is a place where I can express gratitude/inspiration of all the people that have inspired me or have done things a little different. So here it goes… (bear with me!) The first one: Russell Dickerson.

Russell Dickerson

There’s so much to admire about the chart-topping singer, not least the quality of persistence. Years of hard work paid off with the power ballad “Yours” becoming his first number one on the country airplay chart – after 39 weeks on release, steadily creeping up the list. The 30-year-old Nashvillian has written hundreds of songs and touring for ten years. He’s endured rejection from industry executives along the way but continues to stay focused and dedicated to his craft. This persistence paid off through this breakthrough record.

The story behind “Yours” is simple and sweet. The song is about Russell‘s love for his wife (Kailey) who stays by his side during all the long miles on the road. You can often see her at the merch table, and taking photos of fans with her husband.

The song has amassed over 30 million streams on Spotify, three million views on YouTube and featured in New York’s Times Square. He soon his the road for a national tour in support of Kelsea Ballerini and Billy Currington although currently, is finishing his next studio release. Russell looks like becoming the next big country star – and he so deserves it.

Comparison

We often view our own position in the industry or with friends with a “why not me” or a fear of rejection. I always think it’s important to remember that when we view success, we see it only from the top. We forget about the years of endurance, the countless rejections, and the time it takes to master your craft.