MCA Nashville artist Josh Turner released his debut album Long Black Train last year, and in just over three months it has garnered him a Gold Record. As he prepares to go out on the road with Brooks & Dunn, he kindly took the time to answer some questions from your AboutCountry Staff.
AboutCountry Staff: What is the most exciting thing, other than getting your record deal, that has happened to you so far in your career?
Josh Turner: Earning a gold record!!
AboutCountry Staff: What's in your CD player right now?
Josh Turner: I'm One Of You by Hank Williams, Jr.
AboutCountry Staff: What is your favorite track from Long Black Train?
Josh Turner: I have several favorites, but if I had to pick, it would be "Long Black Train."
AboutCountry Staff: Do you play other instruments besides the guitar? If so, which ones?
Josh Turner: No.
AboutCountry Staff: Which artist would you like to model your career after?
Josh Turner: I want to have my own individual career, but I draw from Randy Travis and Johnny Cash predominantly.
AboutCountry Staff: With fame comes fan recognition. Have you had to alter your lifestyle to accommodate this?
Josh Turner: Not really, unless you count the fact that I try to dress up a little more when I go out in public!!
AboutCountry Staff: Long Black Train is packed with traditional country sound. How do you choose the songs to include on your albums?
Josh Turner: I choose them with my heart. I look for songs that make me smile, cry, or tap my foot the first time I hear them. I look for songs that move me and challenge my brain. I hate generic melodies and superficial lyrics. Granted, I've written generic melodies and superficial lyrics myself, but I don't settle for that. I go above and beyond mediocre in my search for songs.
AboutCountry Staff: Were you nervous before playing the Grand Ole Opry?
Josh Turner: Very much so, but only right before I walked on stage. The rest of the time, everybody made me feel so at home.
AboutCountry Staff: If you could sit and talk with three other people, living or dead, who would they be and why?
Josh Turner: It's hard to narrow it down to three, but I'll try. I'd love to sit and talk with Jesus in person because I'd ask him for all kinds of advice. I'd want to hug him and tell him how much I love him for what He's done for me. Secondly, I'd like to talk with Hank Williams. I'd want to ask him all about the songs he wrote and the stories behind them, etc. I could ask him all kinds of stuff. Thirdly, I'd want to talk with Jerry Clower. I just know he'd make me laugh and forget about all my troubles. I think he was one of the kindest, most wholesome stars there's ever been. I met him when I was really really young and never got the chance again. (This answer is in hopes that I'll get to meet Randy Travis and President Bush before they die!!)
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