Dierks Bentley Famous Songs: The Untold Stories Behind His Biggest Hits

Dierks Bentley has several Platinum album certifications and Country Music Television Awards under his belt. While many of his songs have reached No. 1 on the charts, some are perhaps more notable than others. Why? His music is authentic and relatable. He's not shy to bare his soul, and it's a trait that's made him extremely popular across genres.

Speaking on the PBS documentary series Country Music in 2019, Bentley shared that his dream to become a country music performer began when his father played Hank Williams records at home. Today, he has achieved phenomenal success. This guide explores his most popular songs and the stories behind them.

Bentley launched his debut single, "What Was I Thinkin'," in 2003 as the lead single from his self-titled album. He co-wrote the song with fellow singer-songwriters Brett Beavers and Deric Ruttan. It features a mischievous storyline, telling the tale of a young man's wild night and the trouble that ensues. Bentley has stated that the song is partly autobiographical.

The two main influences for Bentley's first hit single were his time working at The Nashville Network and his experiences dating a younger girl. The singer has shared how intimidating it felt for him to meet her father and how this narrative helped him write the song. These personal touches gave it an authenticity that really resonated with listeners.

The song quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, ending Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett's seven-week reign. It reached No. 22 on the all-genre Hot 100 and sold over 3 million copies, earning triple-Platinum status. The single also won Bentley the Academy of Country Music Award for Top New Artist of the Year in 2003.

"Home" is widely considered to be one of Bentley's most patriotic songs. It was co-written with Dan Wilson and Brett Beavers and inspired by Bentley's experiences traveling and the people he met along the way. The tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona, occurred just days before the song was written, and Bentley indicated the event had an impact on him as a songwriter.

For Bentley, the song was written in hopes of bringing people together, especially those struggling and going through tough times. Its powerful lyrics resonated with listeners, and it reached the Top 10 on the country charts even before Bentley officially released his album of the same name.

The song was about national unity, resilience, and hope, and it achieved widespread popularity. Bentley even performed it for former President Obama in November 2011 at the In Performance at the White House concert series, which celebrated country music. The event was held in the East Room, and Bentley sang in tribute to members of the U.S. military and their families.

"Beers On Me," released in 2021, is considered a testament to Bentley's spirit of collaboration. The song was initially conceived with the idea of promoting his upcoming tour and offering fans free beer at his concerts. Featuring rising stars Breland and Hardy, it celebrates camaraderie and the simple joys of letting loose with friends.

This hit was co-written by Bentley, Hardy, Breland, Luke Dick, Ross Copperman, and Ashley Gorley during a three-day retreat in Colorado. Interestingly, Breland was brought in after the initial writing session and rewrote the third verse in just 25 minutes. The original plan was for Breland to rap a specific verse, but he asked Bentley if he could have a stab at rewriting it.

"We played the track over and over again and he just started pulling things out of the air, laughing to himself, messing with his hair and we're like, 'What is he doing?' and writing stuff on his phone," Bentley recalled to The Boot. "It was just like watching a mad scientist, and 25 minutes later, he's like, 'Can I play you what I wrote?' and he plays his verse."

"Beers On Me" reached No. 1 on the Mediabase/Country Aircheck Singles and Billboard Country Airplay charts, becoming Bentley's 21st chart-topper, Breland's first, and the second for Hardy. The track also earned Platinum certification.

Like so many country artists, Bentley began his career as a songwriter in Nashville, where he signed his first publishing deal in 2001. He acknowledges the influence of artists such as Merle Haggard and George Jones and the valuable advice he received from producer Tony Brown: "write every day and don't be precious about it." Over the years, Bentley's songwriting has become increasingly collaborative, as seen in projects such as "Beers On Me."

Life experiences, including relocating to Colorado during the pandemic, losing his father, and becoming a parent, have all shaped his writing. Bentley has learned to adapt his process for different purposes, from bonus tracks to streaming and live performances. Despite these changes, Bentley is still committed to authenticity and personal storytelling. He considers himself a student of songwriting, always looking for ways to learn, grow, and connect with his audience.

Bentley's songs are all a reflection of his life: honest, relatable, and personal. From the youthful fun of "What Was I Thinkin'" to patriotic "Home" and the upbeat "Beers On Me," his willingness to adapt, collaborate, and stay true to his roots has made him one of country music's most respected songwriters. With nearly two dozen No. 1 hits, Bentley has strongly influenced the genre. Give his songs a listen and decide for yourself.