ERNEST

Ernest Keith Smith, known mononymously as ERNEST, is an American country music singer-songwriter born on January 11, 1992, in Nashville, Tennessee. His journey in music is a unique blend of influences and experiences that have shaped his distinctive sound, merging elements of traditional country with modern rap and hip-hop.

Growing up in Nashville, ERNEST was surrounded by the rich musical heritage of the city, but his early musical interests leaned towards hip-hop. He cites the Space Jam soundtrack and Eminem as key influences during his formative years. Despite his country roots, these early experiences with hip-hop played a crucial role in defining his eclectic style. ERNEST’s passion for music was evident from a young age, but his path was not without its challenges. At the age of 19, he suffered a heart attack due to a viral infection, an event that dramatically altered the course of his life. This health scare was compounded by a drug addiction he developed while playing baseball at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). However, these struggles became pivotal moments in his life, leading him to return to Nashville with a renewed focus on music.

Upon his return, ERNEST began collaborating with Matt Royer, the brother of his future wife, Delaney Royer, who owned a recording studio. This collaboration marked the beginning of his music career, and ERNEST began writing and recording songs in the bro-country style, a subgenre that blends elements of country and hip-hop. His work soon caught the attention of Florida Georgia Line, leading to his first major break as a co-writer for the title track of their 2016 album Dig Your Roots.

In 2019, ERNEST signed a recording contract with Big Loud, a prominent Nashville-based label known for fostering new talent in the country music scene. His early work under the label included country rap singles like “Dopeman” and “Bad Boy,” which showcased his ability to blend genres in innovative ways. His songwriting talent also began to shine through, as he penned hits for several big names in country music, including Chris Lane, Jake Owen, and Morgan Wallen.

ERNESt’s own music career took off with the release of his debut album Locals Only in 2019. The album was a reflection of his life in Nashville, infused with the sounds and stories of the local culture. His ability to write catchy, relatable songs quickly earned him a dedicated fanbase. His second album, Flower Shops (The Album), released in 2022, featured the hit single “Flower Shops,” a duet with Morgan Wallen. The song became a massive success, racking up over 100 million streams on Spotify and solidifying ERNEST’s place in the country music industry.

In addition to his music career, ERNEST launched a podcast titled Just Being Ernest in April 2020, where he interviews other musicians about their experiences in the music industry. The podcast, which was especially active during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided fans with an intimate look into the lives of their favorite artists.

On the personal front, ERNEST is married to Delaney Royer, with whom he has a son named Ryman, after the iconic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The couple bought a farm near Nashville in 2022, where they enjoy a quiet life away from the spotlight. ERNEST also maintains a strong presence on social media, sharing glimpses of his life with his fans.

In 2024, ERNEST released his third studio album Nashville, Tennessee, further showcasing his growth as an artist. His music, deeply rooted in his personal experiences and diverse influences, continues to resonate with a wide audience, making him one of the most exciting voices in contemporary country music.