Chase Rice: The Chart-Topping Country Rock Storyteller
Chase Rice is an American country music singer and songwriter who first gained national attention as a co-writer on Florida Georgia Line's record-breaking hit "Cruise." Hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, Rice has since carved his own path as a performer, achieving a number one album on the Billboard 200 and multiple platinum-selling singles.
Early career
Born in 1985, Rice's initial path was far from music, as he briefly pursued a career in NASCAR after college. His life shifted direction following the death of his father, prompting him to move to a cabin in North Carolina and begin writing songs. His first major industry step was as a contestant on the reality television show "Survivor: Nicaragua" in 2010, using his winnings to fund his early musical endeavors.
This led to the independent release of his debut album, "Dirt Road Communion," in 2012. The project demonstrated his blend of country storytelling with rock-influenced energy and helped him build a dedicated touring base, setting the stage for his subsequent major label deal.
Breakthrough
Rice's mainstream breakthrough arrived in 2013 with the release of his EP "Ready Set Roll." The title track became a top 40 hit on the Hot Country Songs chart and was certified Platinum, signaling his arrival as a viable commercial artist. This success was amplified by his major-label debut album, "Ignite the Night," which surprisingly debuted at number one on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart in 2014.
The album was propelled by the massive success of the single "Ready Set Roll" and the follow-up, "Gonna Wanna Tonight." His partnership with Columbia Records Nashville provided the platform, but it was Rice's connection with fans through relentless touring that solidified his place in the modern country landscape.
Key tracks
Ready Set Roll — This Platinum-certified single served as the explosive title track for his breakthrough EP and became a staple of his live shows.
Gonna Wanna Tonight — Another Platinum seller from "Ignite the Night," this track further cemented his reputation for crafting anthemic, party-ready country rock.
Eyes On You — This 2018 single became Rice's highest-charting solo hit, reaching number one on the Country Airplay chart and achieving Double Platinum status.
Drinkin' Beer. Talkin' God. Amen. — A 2020 collaboration with Florida Georgia Line, this song hit number one on Country Airplay, marking a full-circle moment with his former co-writers.
Lonely If You Are — This Platinum-certified track from his 2021 album "The Album" showcased a more mature, melodic side of his country sound.
Following his initial chart success, Rice continued to release albums like "Lambs & Lions" in 2017 and "The Album" in 2021, exploring a range from heartfelt ballads to stadium-sized rockers. He has collaborated with artists like Macy Maloy and enjoyed consistent radio play, proving his durability beyond a single hit era.
Fans of Chase Rice's brand of energetic, rock-tinged country storytelling might also enjoy the music of Florida Georgia Line, with whom he shares a history of crafting massive, genre-blurring anthems. Jason Aldean offers a similar hard-edged, rock-driven approach to modern country music. Chris Young pairs a rich baritone with a mix of traditional and contemporary country production. The party-ready vibe is also echoed in the work of Jake Owen, known for his sun-soaked, upbeat country tracks.
Chase Rice's catalog receives regular rotation on a variety of country and rock radio stations featured on this website. His hits are staples on mainstream country FM stations, while his grittier album tracks find a home on independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams that appreciate his genre-blending style.
Listeners can discover the full range of Chase Rice's music, from his early independent work to his chart-topping singles
