Meet first time Grammy nominee Charley Crockett
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January 28, 2025
TLDR: Charley Crockett, a Texas-born country music artist with roots tracing back to Davy Crockett, is nominated for the Best Americana Album Grammy Award for his album '$10 Cowboy.' This is his first nomination.

In this episode of Consider This from NPR, host Elsa Chang connects with country music artist Charley Crockett, who is celebrating his first Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album for his record, $10 Cowboy. This episode dives into the story of his journey, highlighting a blend of personal anecdotes and insights into the music industry.
Charley Crockett’s Roots
- Humble Beginnings: Charley Crockett was born and raised in Texas and spent his early life in a single-wide trailer with his mother. His lineage can be traced back to the famous frontiersman Davy Crockett, providing a rich backdrop to his musical persona.
- Personal Style: Known for his distinctive style, Crockett represents the classic cowboy aesthetic, complete with a white cowboy hat and vintage outfits that he dons during performances.
The Journey to the Grammys
Grammy Nomination: His nomination marks a significant milestone in his career. Despite the accolades, Crockett admits that he does not perform purely for recognition but rather to express authentic emotions through music. "It’s great to be recognized, but I’m honored to do what I love."
From the Streets to the Stage: Before gaining fame, Charley spent years performing on the streets of New Orleans and subway stations in New York City. This experience shaped his dedication to performing and refined his craft.
Crafting His Musical Identity
- Balancing Tradition and Innovation: The episode discusses how Crockett navigates between reviving older styles of music and innovating his sound. He reflects, "I’m at a crossroads where I want to make a statement more than a financial impact."
- Inspirations from the Past: Crockett's passion for vintage album art and classic sounds is apparent. He aims to tell a compelling story through every aspect of his music and visuals, harkening back to an era where album art was a crucial part of an album's story.
Health Challenges and Touring Life
- Overcoming Adversity: In 2019, Crockett faced a potentially fatal heart valve problem that led to open-heart surgery. He discusses how this pivotal moment has impacted his life and career trajectory, emphasizing resilience.
- Tireless Work Ethic: Despite health challenges, Crockett has released an impressive 15 albums in the last nine years and maintains a rigorous touring schedule, performing internationally. He expresses a deep connection to his work ethic, stating that many artists, like himself, feel a constant drive to work hard regardless of circumstances.
Reflections on Success and Recognition
- What Success Means: The podcast reveals that for Crockett, success is not just measured by awards but also by personal fulfillment and the joy of his mother's pride in his achievements. "It means a whole lot to my mom," he shares, putting familial pride above industry accolades.
- The Pressure to Perform: Crockett discusses the pressures of the music business and the feeling of inadequacy that often accompanies success in the industry. He notes, "It puts a pressure on you to be like, well, I need to do something more."
Final Thoughts
This episode captures the essence of Charley Crockett’s journey in the music world—a tale of determination, artistry, and cultural roots. His down-to-earth demeanor and authenticity resonate throughout the interview, making him a relatable figure in today’s fast-paced music industry. As he looks ahead to the Grammy Awards, it's clear that his journey is just beginning, and his passion for music continues to drive him forward.
Crockett embodies the spirit of hard work and resilience, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the importance of personal connection amidst the challenges of the music world.
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