Tucker Wetmore Unveils His Debut Album ‘What Not To’
Tucker Wetmore has emerged as a rising star in the music industry, with previously successful tracks like “Wine into Whiskey” and “Wind Up Missin’ You.” His latest project, the album titled What Not To, is set to release on April 25 under UMG’s EMI Records Nashville, in collaboration with Back Blocks Music. This album serves not just as a collection of songs, but as a deeply personal narrative, especially highlighted through its title track.
Breaking Personal Barriers
Wetmore initially hesitated to share the stories behind the song “What Not To.” “I was like, ‘No, I’m not going to share this, I’m not going to talk about this,’” he shared in an interview with Billboard. The song draws from his experiences growing up with a father who struggled with alcohol and substance abuse, encapsulating his determination to forge a different path.
Reflecting on the process, Wetmore stated, “When I started thinking more about it, I got excited to open up in that sense. It’s a thing a lot more people go through or went through.” His intention with this song is to connect with listeners who may share similar experiences, using his music as a therapeutic outlet.
A Collaborative Creation
Wetmore collaborated with producer Chris LaCorte and songwriters Chase McGill and Jameson Rogers during a creative retreat in Lynchburg, Tennessee. They spent four days delving into their personal stories, which significantly impacted the creation of “What Not To.” As Wetmore recalled, it was both “one of the toughest, but also easiest” writing sessions of his life, filled with vulnerability among friends discussing real-life struggles.
Exploring Diverse Themes
The album encompasses various lessons learned in love and life, blending genres from country to gospel to rock and reggae. Wetmore’s upbringing in Kamala, Washington, played a significant role in shaping his musical influences. While he was initially dedicated to sports as a multi-sport athlete, a football injury in college redirected his focus toward music.
His breakout hit, “Wine into Whiskey,” marked his arrival on both the Hot Country Songs and the all-genre Hot 100 charts, followed closely by “Wind Up Missing You,” which peaked at No. 2 on the Country Airplay chart. Both tracks have since been certified Platinum by the RIAA, solidifying his presence in the industry.
Milestones and Future Outlook
With over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Wetmore’s debut album is shaping up to establish him as a significant new artist in country music. The album contains 19 tracks that were meticulously selected from a broader pool of songs, ensuring that each one tells an essential part of his journey.
Standout tracks like “3, 2, 1” and “Takes One to Break One” exemplify the core themes of the album, including luck, life’s challenges, and personal growth. Additionally, songs such as “Casino” and “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” encapsulate the complexities of love, while “All of It” interweaves Wetmore’s personal truths with broader metaphoric meanings.
Upcoming Appearances and Personal Touches
Wetmore is scheduled to perform at the ACM Awards as a nominee for the new male artist of the year category, with his mother accompanying him on the red carpet, highlighting his family support in this journey. He remarked, “It’s going to be awesome…She’s one the biggest reasons why I’m in Nashville and chasing my dream of music.”
Later this year, Wetmore will headline his first show at the esteemed Ryman Auditorium, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. What Not To is not just an artistic expression; it is a project that allows Wetmore to share his story and connect with a wider audience as he embarks on a nationwide tour with Thomas Rhett.
Conclusion
Tucker Wetmore’s debut album What Not To stands as a testament to his growth as a songwriter and artist. Through powerful storytelling and diverse musical influences, he is opening up about his life and experiences, inviting listeners to join him on this journey of self-discovery and emotional transparency. As he prepares for his upcoming performances, Wetmore looks forward to bringing his music to fans across the country while embodying the lessons learned along the way.