Keith Urban was born on October 26, 1967 in Caboolture, Queensland, Australia. He began playing guitar at age six after a woman asked Urban’s father if she could advertise in his shop window. The lady, who was offering guitar lessons, wanted to place fliers in Urban’s dad’s shop. His father said she could is she gave his son, Keith, free guitar lessons. The girl consented. Urban’s musical talent proved to be high, and by age eight, he was winning talent shows. At age ten, he began playing at local country music festivals. He was also involved in a youth acting competition where he was required to sing, dance, and memorize lines. While growing up, Keith Urban was highly influenced by Glen Campbell, Dolly Parton, and Don Williams. He was also influenced by guitar legends Mark Knofler and Lindsey Buckingham. In 1991, he released his debut album in Australia entitled Keith Urban. The album had four major Australian hit including his biggest hit, “I Never Work On a Sunday.”
Growing up, Urban always dreamed of living in Nashville, Tennessee, the home of country music. In 1997 his dreams came true when he relocated there with drummer and friend, Peter Clarke. The group formed a three piece band called The Ranch. The original bassist, however, soon left the group to moved back to his native home of Australia. He was replaced by Jerry Flowers from West Virginia. The group began doing live shows, and soon caught the attention of Capitol Records Nashville. They soon signed to the company and also signed a contract to have Police manager, Miles Copeland as their manager. The Ranch released their self-titled, debut album in 1997. Critics loved the album, and took special notice of Urban and his original guitar playing. Other artists around Nashville also realized his talents. In fact, when The Ranch disbanded, urban was approached by various country super stars. He played on Garth Brook’s album, Double Live and also on the Dixie Chick sophomore album, Fly. He also became good friends with Matt Rollings.
Keith Urban’s American debut album entitled, Keith urban, was released in 2000. The album’s first single was “Rollercoaster.” In late 2000, Urban had his first major hit with the single, “It’s A Love Thing.” In 2002, the single, “Somebody Like You,” was also a smash. The video featured top cover girl model, Nikki Taylor. The single also made Urban one of the top male country stars of the year.
Bio written by: bandhunt |
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