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Aaron Watson| doing it his way
By Sharee LaRue .......................................................................................................................................................................................................
Album song list | “Lonely Lonestar Christmas” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” “She Stared At Him All Night” “Christmas Time is Here” “Baby It’s Cold Outside” “The Christmas Waltz” “Jingle Bells” “Silent Night” “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer” “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”
aron Watson, who some say could be this generation’s Chris Ledoux, has produced 14 albums in his 19year music career. He writes his songs with God as his guide and calls Buffalo Gap, Texas his home. He shares his life with his wife Kimberly, of 16 years, and three kids, Jake (12), Jack (10) and Jolee Kate (8). “I don’t think I could ever wear that crown,” said Watson about being compared to rodeo’s own Ledoux, “but I am honored that some think of me that way.” Watson’s music is inspired by the greats of country music; George Strait, Chris Ledoux, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings... and it shows. You could say they are “story songs,” with a lesson in life here and there, but always from the soul. He started by selling records out of his backpack during his college years and his fans grew from there. He wasn’t an overnight success. “We did it the hard way,” he says with pride. “We did it the old school way.” Watson attributes his lyrics about life to his family, fans and faith. “They are the ones that make my music what it is. When I’m writing songs, that’s what’s on my mind. What else is there?” There is no doubt that his style of music is successful. Watson continues to dominate as a true independent in the country music arena. Watson’s 2017 album Vaquero launched into the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart with his biggest career sales debut to date, and at #2 on the Top Country Albums chart. Vaquero is the follow up to his history-making album The Underdog, which
30 Working Horse Magazine 2018 December
debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, making him the first-ever independent, male country artist to debut in the coveted top spot. The album features “Outta Style,” his record-breaking Top 10 hit on country music’s national radio airplay charts and top 40 hit “Run Wild Horses.” He has also released two new projects this year, Live at the World’s Biggest Rodeo Show, and his first ever Christmas collection, An Aaron Watson Family Christmas, both out now. “Fans kept asking for a Christmas Album, so we decided to deliver,” said Watson. “My entire family sings at church, and what better way to celebrate Christmas than with the family recording the anticipated holiday album. My wife has a sweet, soft, 193040’s jazz vibe to her voice, and was perfect for the record.” The Watson’s chose to take their family vacation at home to produce the album and did so in his wife’s closet. Yes, you read that right, the closet. “We spent each day swimming, playing games and grilling while listening to Christmas music,” said Watson. “We would then take a break from the fun and record a song. These are memories that will never be forgotten. It is important to have my kids be a part of my business, so they know what a work ethic is.” Watson’s dad owned a commercial cleaning service and Watson learned his work ethic from his dad, side by side with his father. “I grew up cleaning a lot of toilets,” said Watson. “My kids clean them as well so they know what it takes, and they grow up like I did.” Country Music fans have a treat in store for them come next June. Watson will release his next album titled, “Red Bandana.” The album will feature 20 songs that tips it’s hat to the 20 years Watson has produced his music, his way. The lead track, “Riding with
