Country Star Chase Rice Reflects on Life, Love, and Music’s Challenges

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Country singer Chase Rice is candidly sharing his journey of self-discovery and musical evolution during an interview ahead of his international tour.

In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, the 39-year-old artist opened up about the past two years as they intersect with his personal growth and new music, reflecting that despite his struggles, he is creating the best work of his life. “That has been the frustrating part of the last two years because it’s the best music I’ve ever made,” Rice said, indirectly referencing his upcoming album, Go Down Singin. “But the masses haven’t heard it. They don’t know it exists.”

Rice revealed he has taken a break from drinking, stating, “I haven’t had a drink in a couple weeks. It’s been awesome. I need to learn how to actually be around people and not have to be drunk.” The singer is looking for a more authentic connection with his audience and himself as he navigates social situations without the assistance of alcohol.

His latest single, “Cowboy Goodbye,” reflects on sentimentality and deep emotions, as it features autobiographical elements from his childhood. “Lately, I’m really big on real stories to me or well-written stories that are probably true for somebody else,” he explained. The song includes references to a girl named Jenny, who was his summer love as a child and tragically died in a car accident.

“I played ‘Cowboy Goodbye’ for her parents this summer,” Rice said quietly. “So yeah, it’s a real story and the truth about my life and where my life is at these days and all the goodbyes that have led to it.” His reflective tone is evident as he shares the emotional weight of such memories.

As he contemplates his future, Rice considers his desire for love and family. “I’m at that point in my life where I’m not looking for love, but I’m at least trying to get my ducks in a row,” Rice said. “I just don’t want to wake up and be 50 years old and have all this to myself.” He expresses a wish to become a father, stating, “Whether it happens, or I am married or not, time will tell. But I’d obviously like to do it with the right woman.”

Despite his challenges, including the difficulty of connecting with audiences over a fragmented music industry, Rice remains determined to forge his path. “I look at ‘Ready, Set, Roll’ and ‘Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.’ and it keeps me wondering why that is what people want to hear as opposed to the more quality, better music that I’m making now?” he pondered. “I don’t have an answer for that, but I’m not going to go back to what I was doing. This is who I am.”

With his tour, Rice aims to close the gap between himself and his fans, and his authenticity shines through both his music and personal insights.