On The Download: Keith Urban

Access Hollywood - April 17, 2009 1:04 PM PDT
Story photo: On The Download: Keith UrbanOn The Download: Keith Urban's "Defying Gravity"<br />Capitol RecordsAccess Hollywood

By Breanna Hughes

BURBANK, Calif. -- Keith Urban is a happy, fulfilled, grateful man. The proof is in the music. In his new album, "Defying Gravity," he sings of finding a sense of peace, fulfillment, and self-realization.

Keith has come a long way since playing the smaller, outdoor stage at the country music festivals I attended in the late 90's and early 2000's. Now headlining and playing much bigger venues, he has certainly made a name for himself, and this was long before he became a certain Oscar winner's husband. If only I had known this relative unknown would become one of country music's biggest artists, I probably would have lined up for his "meet and greet" booth at one of those country music bashes instead of getting my hat signed by Ryan Tyler (No offense, Ryan. You're still great!).

VIEW THE PHOTOS: On The Download

Urban is a consummate and truly skilled guitar player. He even teamed up with another talented country guitar player and singer, Brad Paisley , for Paisley's hit "Start A Band," making for an amazing power duo. Urban's guitar aptitude makes it seem like he was born with a six-string in his hand. But there's definitely more to this album than his fancy, frenetic fretwork.

"Defying Gravity" is full of quintessential, Urban-esque songs. The first two singles off the album, "Kiss A Girl," and "Sweet Thing," embody what he does best. They are fast, fun, and filled with rock and roll nuances.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Sexy Country Stud Keith Urban!

"Til Summer Comes Around" shows his sweet, softer side as he laments about the memory of a summer love and the dreariness that September can bring as summer ends and fall and winter are looming. It's one of those "innocence is gone" songs where you have nothing but memories to keep you warm.

"Why's It Feel So Long" is fun, simple, and all too true as he sings about missing someone he just said goodbye to and wondering when he'll see her again. I think it's safe to say we've all been there.

The last song on the album is called, "Thank You." And though it's not stated outright, it's fairly obvious it's about his wife (whom he also profusely thanks in the liner notes). I always think it's pretty cool when you know who the artist is singing about. It makes the song much more personal and intimate.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Country Stars

After 12 years and six albums, Keith Urban continues to grow and explore new territory with his music. This is his first album as a doting husband and father and it definitely shows.

Keith's tour kicks off in May.

Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
PLAY IT NOW: On The Download: Keith Urban - 'Sweet Thing'
PLAY IT NOW: 2009 Academy Of Country Music Awards Arrivals

MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: On The Download - Keith Urban - Country Music - Rock - Music

comments

comments

  • Moody Blue
    I can't beleive he married lennie Cravits Ex F Doll........Yuk........What were you thinking??
    report abuseposted June 19, 2009 8:31 PM PDT
  • laurie
    Didn't think it was possible Keith, but your music keeps getting better and better. Thought you were great before! LOVE: I'm IN, Hit The Ground Running and of course, THANK YOU. Great, great song from you to Nic. God bless you 3
    report abuseposted May 9, 2009 4:26 PM PDT
  • laurie
    Didn't think it was possible Keith, but your music keeps getting better and better. Thought you were great before! LOVE: I'm IN, Hit The Ground Running and of course, THANK YOU. Great, great song from you to Nic. God bless you 3
    report abuseposted May 9, 2009 4:26 PM PDT
  • laurie
    Didn't think it was possible Keith, but your music keeps getting better and better. Thought you were great before! LOVE: I'm IN, Hit The Ground Running and of course, THANK YOU. Great, great song from you to Nic. God bless you 3
    report abuseposted May 9, 2009 4:26 PM PDT
  • laurie
    Didn't think it was possible Keith, but your music keeps getting better and better. Thought you were great before! LOVE: I'm IN, Hit The Ground Running and of course, THANK YOU. Great, great song from you to Nic. God bless you 3
    report abuseposted May 9, 2009 4:26 PM PDT
  • Miss V
    Just wondering if Linda F has ALL his cd's....the one which was not sold here in the US a while back is one from Australia dated back to 1991. I do believe it is his very first album. I do have that cd, its a very different sounding Keith, but its still good also. Yes, i agree, Keith's fans do love him...i know i have since seeing him at our "county fair" , and c
    report abuseposted April 20, 2009 8:51 PM PDT
  • Linda F
    I have all his cd's and dvd's, have attended numerous concerts!!An absolute must for those of his fans that love him!!
    report abuseposted April 20, 2009 9:08 AM PDT
  • MJ in Texas
    Way to go, Keith**** MJ in Texas
    report abuseposted April 18, 2009 1:35 AM PDT

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