#CFF2021 Artists' Spotlight: Chris Petersen
Chris Petersen’s authentic cowboy blend of country music has given a voice to fans who have felt left behind in the age of pop country. With a sound reminiscent to country songs of the 90’s, Chris has drawn influence from artists like Chris Ledoux, George Strait, and Merle Haggard. With hard hitting vocals that cut above the driving beat of the band, Chris Petersen’s performances stand out to create a fun, foot stomping experience.
In 2020 Chris Released his newest single "Midnight Ride" on the heels of being featured on season 15 of Americas got Talent. Chris performed for Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel and the crew and received all YES votes.
Chris' album, “Cowboy Coming Home” was produced by Trent Willmon. Trent is a seasoned singer/songwriter who has written songs for countless artists including Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Eric Church, Montgomery Gentry, Little Big Town, Cody Johnson, and many more. As a producer Trent has had exceptional success. Trent produced a 2019 Billboard #1 Album, Cody Johnson's, "Aint Nothin to it. Trent Willmon said the following about working with Chris, “I feel like Chris Petersen has one of those timeless voices. It’s a rare honor to get to work with a real cowboy with such a tireless work ethic and great attitude, and an authentic sense of who he and his audience is. I feel like this is a classic album with timeless songs that people will enjoy for decades.”
For “Cowboy Coming Home,” Chris wrote or co-wrote 11 of the 12 songs. The album was recorded at Front Stage Studio in Nashville, TN featuring a live 8 piece band and was released on June 30th 2019. Chris' album immediately climbed to the top ten on the Billboard Mountain Region Heatseekers Chart in all genres. This is something not easily attained by an independent artist and Chris credits his ultra supportive cowboy fan base as well as manager, McKensie Black, and Producer, Trent Willmon. Chris stated, "We have an incredible team with a common vision to bring authentic and original country music to life. We built these songs from a lifetime of living them and can't wait to share it all with the people of the country music community." The albums popularity has continued to grow with performances at notable venues such as, The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo.
Chris was raised in a small town in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Here he developed a love for horses, and everything about the cowboy lifestyle. He was drawn to the old cowboys around town who took him under their wing and taught him about horses. Chris built a love of starting colts and building confidence in young horses. By combining his love for horses and a love for art and photography, Chris started Diehard Cowboy–A company built to share the cowboy lifestyle and his authentic music with others. Chris spends as much time as he can riding horses and starting colts. Chris also works for several ranches to get a reprieve from his regular schedule. You can take a glimpse in this life by following. @Diehardcowboy_
Chris got somewhat of a late start into his music career. Earlier in life the fear of singing in front of other people kept him from getting on stage. Even though Chris never sang in public until he was in college, music was always present. Chris would often write songs while driving, or riding his horses, but singing would only happen around his close friends. Friends soon began to encourage him to sing more and to share his songs. Eventually Chris started writing and recording the songs that he had written but they were only heard by those in his inner circle.
A turning point came when Country Musician, Collin Raye, heard a burnt CD of a few of Chris’ songs. Collin asked if Chris would be willing to open an upcoming concert for him. The night of the concert came and Chris faced his fear, took the stage, and sang to a hometown crowd. This was a moment that changed Chris’ life. After encouragement from Collin Raye, Chris set his sights on pursuing his career as a songwriter and performer. It took a lot of work to overcome his fear. Chris spent a full year singing once a week at a local venue with his guitar before he finally felt he could play for a crowd. Eventually Chris was playing for larger audiences in shows across the country. He played during the Houston Rodeo at NRG park, and even packed his guitar to Missouri. In 2017 Chris was selected as a finalist at the Kerrville Songwriting Competition in, Kerrville, Texas. Many past finalists had gone on to become notable performers like, Steve Earl, Tom Russel, Robert Earl Keen, Lyle Lovett, Hal Ketchum, and Zane Williams.
Chris has always been a big supporter of the men and women who serve our country and communities. He has written two songs in their honor. “Every Time I Hear the Rain” as well as “He Still Pays the Price.”
As a musician Chris sticks to his country roots. He loves playing traditional country music with influences like George Strait, Merle Haggard, and Chris Ledoux. These influences are also reflected in Chris’ writing. Chris writes songs that are authentic and true to his character. His songs will resonate with all who love honest country music.
We are so excited to welcome Chris Petersen to our Campground Stage, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at 6:30PM
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Adapted from Chris Petersen Biography