How Luke Combs’ College Years Helped Shape His Music Career
Country music powerhouse Luke Combs set his sights on music at a young age. During his college years, he faced a decision that would ultimately impact his path to success in country music.
Combs attended Appalachian State University, a public research university in Boone, North Carolina, from 2008 to 2012. During a recent visit to The Dog Walk with Eddie, the “Beautiful Crazy” singer revealed that he began the process of rushing the Kappa Alpha fraternity during his sophomore year, but did not ultimately pledge.
Why? Combs chose to participate in an a cappella group instead.
He recalls that the singing group had a concert the same night that the fraternity was hosting its “big brother reveal” night. At that point, he described being already “over it.” He told the fraternity leaders:
“‘Hey, I really gotta do this concert tonight.’ Because there’s only like 12 people in the group, it’s not like there’s 1,000 guys in the a cappella group. I’m like, ‘Your boy’s got solos. I can’t just not go…'”
Unfortunately, he was not met with understanding and was told he would have to choose one of the other. Combs recounts the easy decision. “I’m out,” he said, ultimately choosing to prioritize his involvement with the singing group.
“I was just like, ‘I kind of already sing and I’m already kinda good at that. All I’m doing with you guys is paying to be your friend, which I already have a lot of friends anyways.’ It just didn’t line up.”
Ultimately, he concludes, “I made the right choice, obviously.”
Hear Luke Combs tell the anecdote from his college years in the video below!
Luke Combs To Be Honored With The ACM International Award
Luke Combs continues to be a frontrunner in country music. On August 20th, he will be celebrated with the ACM International Award at the 18th Annual ACM Honors. This award is given to an artist in recognition of their “outstanding contributions to the growth of Country Music throughout the world.”
As the ACM describes, Combs is a “true international presence.” He boasts more than 25 million monthly listeners across all platforms and has sold out venues in the US, UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Australia.
Past recipients of the ACM International Award include Dan + Shay, Alan Jackson, Lady A, Kacey Musgraves, Dolly Parton, Rascal Flatts, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban.
