Chase Rice - Shay's Spotlight Artist of the Week

Chase Rice is new to the country scene but don't let that fool you into thinking he's not a big deal. This guy can write, sing, and put on an electric show all while making you think he's just the guy next door. He's got the drive and ability to make a name for himself in the business. Here's a little about Chase and what makes him the entertainer he is.

Born in Florida and raised in North Carolina, Rice played football eventually earning a scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After graduation he also worked for Hendrick Motorsports NASCAR pit crew. In 2010 Chase was a contestant on the CBS hit show Survivor: Nicaragua where he came in runner-up to Jud "Fabio" Birza. Rice eventually found his way to Nashville, where he decided writing songs and performing was his calling.

Getting his knack for writing from keeping personal journals since high school and playing guitar since college, his father told him he needed to be singing. He released his first album “Friday Nights & Sunday Mornings” which included a song about his father's passing. In 2012 his second album, "Dirt Road Communion", was released.

Summer of 2012 Rice teamed up with country super duo, Florida Georgia Line, eventually coming up with the hit song 'Cruise' which not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Hits but also became a huge pop crossover hit as well.

In 2013 Rice released a six song EP "Ready, Set, Roll" a song that earned him a gold record. In summer of 2014 that song was released as part of his third full length album, "Ignite the Night".

He has a 'all in' philosophy to work and performing and this is showcased in his live performances. You better go ready to have a good time because he won't accept anything less.