Luke Combs: The Musical Influences Shaping His Chart-Topping Success

Luke Combs, a two-time CMA entertainer of the year winner, credits his diverse musical influences for shaping his singing style. Growing up listening to country icons like Eric Church and Garth Brooks, Combs also drew inspiration from rock and pop acts, including the Backstreet Boys. In a recent interview on Hot Ones, Combs discussed how the boy band's harmonies and catchy melodies influenced his approach to songwriting and vocal delivery. He highlighted the importance of creating memorable hooks and engaging moments in songs to captivate listeners and keep them coming back for more.
Combs' distinctive vocal style, described as a blend of silk and sandpaper, has propelled him to success in the country music scene. His debut single, "Hurricane," topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart in 2017 and has since achieved RIAA 12x Platinum certification. Combs revealed that he invested his last $200 into mastering the track, viewing it as a make-or-break moment in his career. The unexpected success of "Hurricane" paved the way for Combs to establish himself as a chart-topping artist with a string of No. 1 hits on the Country Airplay chart.
With 19 chart-toppers under his belt, Combs continues to make waves in the country music industry. His upcoming album, "The Way I Am," is set to be released on March 20th, showcasing his growth as an artist and storyteller. Combs' journey from a struggling independent artist to a chart-topping sensation is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and unwavering passion for music. Watch Luke Combs' full episode on Hot Ones to learn more about his musical influences and creative process.