Luke Bryan Talks About Touring and American Idol
As Kelly Ford’s co-host for Backstage Country from September 30 to October 04, 2024, Luke Bryan will not only play a curation of good country music, he’ll also share what happens backstage at his tours and what it really means to be an American Idol judge.
Backstage at a Luke Bryan Concert
Bryan told Ford about connecting with newer, younger artists in the industry. “I don’t want to call them ‘baby acts,’ but they’re younger acts that have maybe one hit song going up the charts,” he said. “What’s really fun is a couple times a year getting them all up on the bus and just chatting with them and seeing where they’re at and their journey.” Reflecting on his early days, Bryan added, “And because I remember that journey and that journey was fun back then. I mean, when you got your first song going up the charts, you were losing your mind and you’re freaking out.”
He mentioned that when a new country artist is backstage on a big tour, they’re always watching and observing everything around them. “Yeah. They’re watching. They’re learning, too. But the most fun thing was having to tell HunterGirl she didn’t have to keep thanking us every day.” HunterGirl who was the 20th season runner-up of American Idol in 2022, joined Bryan’s Mind of a Country Boy Tour as a special guest.
Being an American Idol Judge
Ford asked Bryan about the latest season of American Idol. Bryan can’t contain his excitement, “We’re so excited to have Carrie Underwood coming out. Obviously, she knows every aspect of what it’s like to be in the shoes of the contestants,” he exclaimed. He continued, “Carrie has always been so nice by coming back to the show and being really active with the show because she really credits the show in changing her life and kickstarting her from becoming a small-town Oklahoma girl.” Bryan also believes that the participants will be able to respond to her advice, given her experience as a contestant.
Ford requested Bryan to think about what he wished someone had told him when he first hosted American Idol. “Just don’t be too scared to really say what you feel.” Bryan replied. “And good luck on not being redundant to try to get creative with how you critique kids after a thousand of them.” He chuckled, “My God, I’m saying the same thing!”
Don’t miss out—tune in to Backstage Country with Luke Bryan as he talks more about his experience touring and being an American Idol judge.
