I grew up in Anniston, Alabama. Music eventually brought me to Florida, but the Gulf Coast became much more than a place to play. It became home—the place where I built my businesses, raised a family, and made a life I’m truly grateful for.

I’ve spent a lot of years onstage, but some of my favorite moments are the quiet ones: taking a walk with my wife, Cheri, having a good conversation with my son, Grant, or simply being together with nowhere we need to be. I’m so proud of Grant and the man he’s becoming. I’m proud of my other son, Collin, too, and of his service in the United States Army. Watching both of them find their own paths has been one of the great joys of this chapter of my life.

My Christian faith helps guide me. Every January, I read the Book of Proverbs. It’s a tradition that brings me back to wisdom, humility, discipline, and the way we treat one another. No matter how many times I read it, there’s always something in those pages I need to hear again.

As I get older, I’m paying closer attention to my health and to how I spend my time. I still have songs to write, businesses to grow, places to see, and plenty to learn. But I also want the energy and freedom to enjoy the people I’m doing it all for.

I think more about legacy now, too. I want to pass along the lessons I’ve learned, including the ones that came the hard way. My hope is that my family can build on what I got right and avoid a few of the potholes I managed to find.

I take my responsibilities seriously, but I still love a good laugh, a good story, and any excuse to celebrate.

There’s a lot more living to do.