[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he fact that Asheville, N.C. native Luke Combs hasn't been handed a record deal is shocking. In a town where mainstream country soundalikes run rampant, Combs has stayed nothing but true to himself.
It's hard to believe that such a mature and seasoned voice comes from a 25-year-old, but it's a talent he's been molding since his early childhood. After graduating from Appalachian State University, Combs made the move to Nashville, Tenn. to try and break into the country music scene. Since then, he's been performing at honky-tonks and bars across the country, and earning fans with his stripped-down performance videos on YouTube. He independently released his single "Hurricane" on iTunes earlier in 2015, which quickly entered the Top 10 on the country chart.
His honest lyrics and powerful voice create a one-two punch that's impossible to ignore. During a time when old-school, unapologetic country is making a strong comeback, it's only a matter of time before Luke Combs makes his way onto the mainstream country charts and stays there.
What He Sounds Like: A grittier Lee Brice, with an added dash of Southern-rock edginess made mainstream by Brantley Gilbert.
Required Listening: "Used to You", a heart-wrenching ballad that details the struggle and heartache that comes with losing a loved one.
