Luke Combs Opens Up on 'Fathers & Sons' Album and Personal Life in Candid Apple Music Interview

In an intimate and heartfelt interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, country superstar Luke Combs delves deep into the personal stories and experiences that shaped his latest album, Fathers & Sons. The conversation covers a range of topics, from his relationship with his father to the life-changing moments of becoming a dad himself.

Credit Zane Lowe On Apple Music 1

A Tribute to Father-Son Relationships

Luke Combs' Fathers & Sons is more than just an album; it’s a journey through the complex and often nuanced world of father-son relationships. Inspired by his own upbringing and the shift in his perspective after becoming a father, Combs aimed to create something universally relatable. "There’s so many different experiences that people have as a child or as a parent or as a grandparent," he explains. "I wanted there to be a little bit of a taste of all of that on the record."

The album doesn't shy away from the tough topics either. In songs like "All I Ever Do Is Leave," Combs reflects on the misunderstood sacrifices his father made. "My dad worked a lot, so as a kid, it felt like he was never around," Combs recounts. "But now, as a father myself, I realize he was showing me love by working hard to provide for us."

Personal Reflections and Growing Up

Combs’ reflections on his own childhood bring a raw and honest perspective to the album. As an only child with hardworking parents, he recalls weekends filled with chores and maintenance rather than leisurely activities. "We didn't have a lot of money, so if something broke, Dad would fix it himself. That was his way of taking care of us," he shares. This understanding came full circle when Combs became a father, helping him appreciate the unspoken sacrifices his father made.

The Challenges of Fatherhood and Touring

One of the most poignant moments in the interview is when Combs discusses missing the birth of his second son while on tour in Australia. "It was one of the best and worst days of my life," he admits. Despite the heartbreak, Combs found solace in the support of his close friends and team, who were with him on the road. This experience, although tough, didn't feature prominently on the album due to its deeply personal nature.

Creating the Album: A Labor of Love

Initially, Combs planned to release a few songs about his children as an EP. However, as he continued writing and gathering material, the project grew into a full album. "I thought, why not make a whole record of this thing?" he says. The result is a collection of songs that span the spectrum of fatherhood, from joyful moments to introspective reflections.

Mental Health and the Music Industry

Beyond the themes of fatherhood, Combs also touches on the importance of mental health. "Mental health has played a huge part in my life since I was 11 or 12 years old," he reveals. Combs emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental well-being, breaking the stigma that often surrounds the topic.

Reflecting on his career, Combs acknowledges the rapid changes in the music industry since he started. He reminisces about his early days, creating EPs in college, and how the rise of streaming has transformed the way artists gauge their success. "Now you can find out what song people like within 12 hours of releasing a record," he notes, highlighting the shift towards more immediate feedback from fans.

A Defining Moment

As Combs continues to navigate his career and personal life, he remains grounded in the experiences that shaped him. His interview with Zane Lowe offers a window into the man behind the music, showcasing his dedication to family, his craft, and his fans.

Luke Combs’ Fathers & Sons is available now, offering listeners a heartfelt exploration of the bonds that define us and the music that brings us together.

You can watch the full interview below