Artist Name: Kenny Chesney

Knoxville, Tennessee native Kenny Chesney was propelled to stardom following his debut album In My Wildest Dreams via Capricorn Records in 1994. It wasn’t long until Chesney inked a deal with BNA Records and dropped All I Need to Know, third studio album Me and You (1996), I Will Stand (1997), Everywhere We Go (1999), and many more award-winning collections. Over the course of his career, the singer-songwriter became one of the most successful and influential artists in the genre  Chesney is best known for his island-inspired lyrics, distinctive contemporary country sound, and energetic performances. Throughout his extensive career, fans resonated with hits such as – “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems,” "When The Sun Goes Down,” “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy,” and “There Goes My Life.” The easy-going crooner has scored numerous accolades from 12 CMA Awards, 11 ACM Awards, CMT Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and People’s Choice Awards. The esteemed vocalist has been nominated  six times for a GRAMMY Award, but has yet to receive the prestigious honor. 

Fandom: No Shoes Nation 

“No Shoes Nation” is a devoted and passionate community centered around Kenny Chesney. While navigating the country genre for nearly three decades, the hitmaker cultivated an adoring fan base that resonates with his laid-back lifestyle and beach persona. His carefree mentality is reflective in his genre-bending sound and songwriting. 

The idea behind “No Shoes Nation” extends beyond being admirers of Kenny Chesney’s music. The fandom symbolizes unity, a collective perspective, and a feeling of being a part of a larger group. Fanatics that consider themselves members of “No Shoes Nation” typically bon over their affection for Chesney’s songs and the relatable themes portrayed in his music. These mutual encounters and emotions foster a sense of togetherness among the fan base. 

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Birthdate: March 26, 1968 

Birthplace: Knoxville, Tennessee 

Family Background: Kenny Chesney is of English and Irish descent. He is the child of David Chesney, an elementary school teacher and Karen Chandler, a hairdresser. The country phenomenon has one sister named Jennifer Chandler. He attended Gibbs High School, where he was a  star athlete on the baseball and football teams. He later attended East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, where he studied advertising and was a proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha. Following graduation in 1990, the self-taught musician recorded and released his first album. 

Spouses/  Partners: Kenny Chesney is single. The beachbum was previously married to actress Renée Zellweger. The two tied the knot in May of 2005, but called it quits later that year. Chesney is known for keeping his romantic and personal life private. 

Children: No. Chesney does have any children. 

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Charitable or philanthropic activities:  Kenny Chesney has used his powerful platform to pay it forward. The hitmaker supports various charities and initiatives. Some of his notable philanthropic efforts include: 

1. Love food Love City Foundation: Following Hurricane Irma in 2017, Chesney created the Love for Love City Foundation. Their nonprofit provides the U.S. and British Virgin Islands with helpful resources. He donated all of the proceeds from his Songs of the Saints album to the foundation. 

2. Environmental Conservation: Chesney has used his voice to advocate for environmental and ocean conservation. He has worked closely with organizations that address marine life and marine life. His No Shoes Reefs benefited coastal conservation in Florida. 

3. Music Education: The Country Music Hall of Famer has made generous donations to music programs in schools nationwide. The “I Go Back” singer has also been involved in events that advocate for music education for aspiring artists. 

Chesney has supported the following charities: ACM Lifting Lives, MusiCares, Kids With Network, National Parks Conservation Association, Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, The Salvation Army, Farm Aid, and more. 

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Influences and role models: Kenny Chesney’s style of music has been influenced by a handful of artists, as his recognizable songs have touched upon love, relationships, partying, nostalgia and a blissful lifestyle. His diverse catalog has cultivated a devoted fan base and has single handedly transformed him into a crossover artist. Although Chesney has become a unique and prominent figure, a devoted country fan will recognize influences from other musicians in the industry. 

George Strait, Jimmy Buffett, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams Jr., John Mellencamp, Kenny Rogers, Bruce Springsteen, Buddy Cannon, and his personal experiences. 

Photo Credit: @kennychesney on Instagram.