From a humble start in a small western band to becoming one of the biggest up-and-coming country stars, Corey Kent has dedicated his life to music and family.
Emerging from the Red Dirt country scene, Kent moved to Nashville as a teen with a catalog of self-penned country-rock anthems. After losing his first publishing deal during the pandemic, he relocated to North Texas and took a job on a paving crew but refused to give up on music. He found his footing in honkytonks and dancehalls along the Red River, where his resilience and authenticity continued to thrive.
A few years later, Kent's hit single "Wild As Her" validated his journey, becoming a Platinum-certified number one on country radio and the lead single from his debut album, Blacktop. With rising momentum, he toured with artists like Jason Aldean and Ashley McBryde, garnering accolades from CMT and Opry Next Stage. Despite being the most-played new artist on country radio in 2023, Kent maintained his underdog mentality, resonating with fans who shared his unconventional spirit.
Local Profile recently interviewed Kent ahead of a big performance at Choctaw Casino & Resort on Oct. 4, 2024.
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Where does your passion for music come from?
My passion for music started at a young age. I grew up listening to country music and started playing in a western swing band in Oklahoma when I was 11. I was always drawn to storytelling and how music has the power to connect people. It’s just something I’ve always felt in my bones.
Is there a specific moment you remember knowing that’s what you wanted to do?
When I was 16 years old, I had a chance encounter with Willie Nelson where I ended up on stage with him. That experience sealed the deal for me. That’s the moment when I felt music chose me and I haven’t looked back since.
What does the black bandana symbolize for you?
The black bandana is a symbol of resilience and determination. It represents staying true to yourself and your journey, no matter how hard the road gets. For me, it’s a reminder of the hard work, sacrifice, and grit it takes to pursue a dream. You can think of a black bandana as the opposite of a white flag.
What is the best piece of advice you received and how do you continue to pass that advice along?
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to stay patient and trust the process. Nothing happens overnight, and you have to be willing to put in the work day in and day out. I try to pass that advice along by staying grounded and showing others that success is a long game, not something that happens instantly.
What was the most difficult decision you’ve made in your career so far?
The toughest decision was stepping away from music for a while, and moving to Texas to focus on supporting my family. I took a job paving roads in Dallas, which was a hard choice, but it gave me the perspective I needed and made me appreciate the opportunity to come back to music even more.
How has the North Texas community supported your career?
The North Texas community has been incredible. From the local venues to the fans and radio stations, they’ve really embraced my music and given me a platform to grow. That sense of community has been instrumental in helping me keep pushing forward.
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m always working on new music and continuing to evolve as an artist. Right now, we’re gearing up for more touring, writing new songs and working on a new record. I’m excited about what’s coming next.
What do you hope folks take away from the Black Bandana Tour?
I hope people walk away feeling inspired and connected, whether it’s through the lyrics, the energy or the experience of being at the show. The Black Bandana Tour is all about celebrating resilience and chasing dreams, and I want fans to feel like they’re a part of that journey with me.
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Kent will soon hit the stage at Choctaw Casino & Resort on Oct. 4, 2024. Get tickets here.
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