Book Insight: "Heart Life Music" by Kenny Chesney with Holly Gleason

Renowned for his illustrious music career over the last thirty years, Kenny Chesney releases his debut book, co-authored with journalist Holly Gleason, due out Tuesday from William Morrow. The book is an account of Chesney's life, starting in East Tennessee and spanning to his creation of No Shoes Nation, and beyond.

Here is a highlight from the book, featuring his heartfelt collaboration with singer-songwriter Grace Potter.

The Allure of Grace

In the world of entertainment, 'Let's Make A Deal' was a popular show where participants hoped for a chance to impress host Monty Hall and win grandiose prizes like luxury cars or brand-new kitchen sets. Often, they were enticed by the unknowns behind Door No. 3.

I'm inherently drawn to the mystery behind Door No. 3. This concept of an unpredictable adventure is compelling, and it has guided much of my life. As a person driven by dreams, taking risks is necessary. Although not every exploration pays off, collaborating with Grace Potter exemplifies why embracing uncertainty often leads to extraordinary outcomes.

It was past midnight when 'You & Tequila' appeared in my inbox. As I listened, I was captivated by its powerful theme of irresistible yet toxic attraction. After connecting with Matraca Berg, I discovered a demo featuring Tim Krekel that resonated even further. Our rendition was deliberately simple, reflecting the tension of desire that resonated profoundly with listeners.

As we neared completion, I sought an element to elevate the song. While Buddy Cannon and I mulled over potential voices, Clint Higham, my co-manager, suggested reaching out to an iconic sound like the Eagles, due to its classic Laurel Canyon vibe.

Matraca then posed a suggestion that sparked curiosity: what about Grace Potter? Known for her enigmatic presence as a rock-influenced, hippie songwriter, she seemed an unlikely yet perfect fit. Her mystery and intensity were exactly what the song demanded.

In the tranquil nights of the Virgin Islands, devoid of light pollution, I immersed myself in music. Grace's live CD entranced me with its authenticity and unrefined production. Her voice, unveiled in 'Apologies,' was breathtakingly raw, a sound like coming home. Her uniqueness was a revelation.

The challenge lay in the timing. With Grace just off a European tour and needing to be in Nashville within two days to finalize recording, it seemed improbable. But once she listened to the demo during a ride to customs, a swift confident 'yes' followed.

Arriving in a striking leopard print, Grace entered Blackbird Recording Studios and transformed our project with her vivacity and allure. She shared spirited tales, made us laugh, and seamlessly connected with our music's core essence.

Buddy invited her to step into the vocal booth to gauge how the song felt. Grace's brief impromptu humming in the booth led effortlessly into her now-iconic vocal flourish, solidifying our track’s foundation.

Marked by spontaneity, just two or three takes later, her contribution was immortalized. Even before we mixed it, its potential was undeniable.

Celebrating my birthday, we dined at Sunset Grille, sharing laughter under a canopy of stars. Although our musical roots differed, with her influences being legends like Willie Nelson and Townes Van Zandt, our values resonated on a deeply personal level.

That evening confirmed an unspoken bond. As she entered my car, Grace professed, 'I’m unsure of what lies ahead, but I know we'll be lifelong friends.' Her insight into life's deeper orchestrations, it seemed, had drawn our paths together.