Consider This from NPR: Meet First-Time Grammy Nominee Charley Crockett

NPR's "Consider This" delves deep into the stories behind major news events, offering listeners insightful analyses in just 15 minutes. In the episode titled "Meet First-Time Grammy Nominee Charley Crockett," released on January 28, 2025, host Ailsa Chang introduces listeners to the rising star in the Americana music scene.

Early Life and Heritage

Charlie Crockett's roots are steeped in Texas heritage, growing up in a modest single-wide trailer with his mother. He proudly traces his lineage back to the iconic frontiersman, Davy Crockett, emphasizing a deep connection to American history and resilience.

Ailsa Chang [00:33]: "Crockett was born and raised in Texas, grew up in a single wide trailer with his mom, and says his family lineage traces all the way back to the frontiersman Davy Crockett."

Career Beginnings: From New Orleans to the Streets of New York

Crockett's journey into music wasn't conventional. Starting in New Orleans, he honed his craft on the streets, performing outside Café Dumont to capture the attention of both tourists and potential agents. His dedication saw him performing up to 10 hours a day, a testament to his relentless work ethic.

Charlie Crockett [02:43]: "When I first was getting off the street and out of the bars, got my first agent on the street in New Orleans... I used to do a little jig for the tourists in front of Cafe Dumont."

His move to New York City was inspired by legends like Bob Dylan. Despite initial skepticism and being called a "fool" in places like LA, Crockett's perseverance paid off as he refined his songwriting and performance skills through constant practice.

Charlie Crockett [03:30]: "I wanted to go to New York because of Bob Dylan, because I... started getting better, you know, because I was spending 10 hours a day."

Musical Style and Visual Aesthetics

Crockett's music and visual presentation pay homage to classic Americana, blending traditional sounds with contemporary storytelling. His album covers reflect a vintage aesthetic, reminiscent of an era before digital streaming dominated the industry. This intentional design choice underscores his commitment to narrative and authenticity.

Charlie Crockett [04:12]: "I love the old records. Because he didn't have all this digital streaming and all this stuff. It was like you had to tell the story with the picture to sell it to somebody."

Musically, Crockett blends old-time arrangements with personal narratives, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.

Charlie Crockett [04:37]: "It's hard luck and circumstances that brought me here."

Grammy Nomination: Meaning and Perspective

Being nominated for his first Grammy in the Best Americana Album category for "$10 Cowboy" is a significant milestone for Crockett. However, he maintains a humble perspective, emphasizing that his journey has always been about passion over recognition.

Charlie Crockett [05:46]: "No, no, I'M honored. It's great to be recognized. I'm just saying I don't do it for that."

When pressed about the importance of the nomination amidst his extensive accomplishments, Crockett attributes the honor to his mother's pride, highlighting the personal significance beyond industry accolades.

Charlie Crockett [06:07]: "She's proud of me for sure."

Personal Challenges and Resilience

Crockett's path hasn't been without challenges. In 2019, he underwent open-heart surgery due to a potentially fatal heart valve problem, a scare that could have ended his career prematurely. Yet, his resilience shines through as he discusses his recovery and continued commitment to music.

Charlie Crockett [06:32]: "Oh, yeah, well, I ain't pushing up daisies yet."

Relentless Pursuit and Philosophical Outlook

With an impressive discography of 15 albums over nine years and a grueling international tour schedule, Crockett doesn't slow down. His drive stems from a deep-seated belief in constant hard work, a value ingrained in him from his American upbringing.

Charlie Crockett [06:59]: "I don't know. Because all the people I've ever related to, everybody's, like, working so hard their whole life. You kind of work so hard that, you know, you don't have kind of time to stop and take it all in."

Despite the relentless pace, Crockett expresses a fear of becoming complacent or constrained by success, choosing instead to keep pushing forward.

Charlie Crockett [07:20]: "I would hate... I'm afraid of getting fenced in."

He encapsulates his philosophy with a nod to the American work ethic, emphasizing perseverance over self-doubt.

Charlie Crockett [08:11]: "I'm going to keep swinging the hammer. I'm just going to keep doing it."

Conclusion: Acknowledging the Journey

Ailsa Chang wraps up the conversation by congratulating Crockett on his Grammy nomination, underscoring the honor it represents regardless of his personal feelings about the awards.

Ailsa Chang [08:21]: "Well, keep swinging that hammer, Charlie Crockett. And congratulations on your first Grammy nomination."

Crockett gracefully acknowledges the support of his mother, reinforcing the personal underpinnings of his professional achievements.

Charlie Crockett [08:32]: "I'll give it to my mama if I ever get one."

Production Credits:
Produced by Kyra Joachim and Mark Rivers
Audio Engineering by Kwesi Lee
Edited by Christopher Intagliata
Executive Producer: Sammy Yenigun

For more stories and in-depth analyses, tune into NPR's "Consider This."