Chris Shelby: Local Catch Of The Week

Learning to play an instrument is a big commitment. It takes a lot of hard work and practice. It's incomprehensible to think someone could pick up a guitar and a year later recorded an original song that is radio ready. That's natural born talent. That's Chris Shelby, my Local Catch of the Week.

Chris Shelby sounds like he's worked all the dive bars in Nashville and is moving up to bigger clubs and festivals. His natural leather-worn, whiskey-seasoned vocals are captivating. Listening to this singer/songwriter's latest release, it feels as if he's lived a few life times.

Shelby's delivery is a rough as it is smooth. It's as if he's been places and knows things, but can share those experiences through silky tones that go down easy. That's not something learned, that's innate.

Below, you can listen to Chris Shelby's newest release, "Tennessee Without You." You'll immediately feel like he sounds familiar, yet completely original. There's a comfort in that. Plus, you'll learn a little more about this talented artist who found his path to music in a more unconventional way.

The song's subject is explained in more detail by Chris, here. But think Toby Keith's "How Do You Like Me Now" as the subject matter. Only he's conveys his message with less playfulness and more intensity.

Get to know Chris, find out where he's playing and follow him on social media. All that is available to you right here. It's a great way to show support for our local artists. Just listening to their music, learning about them and showing up on social and in person, can help propel local to national.

It all starts at home. We root for our hometown teams, here's your chance to root for a local athlete turned singer/songwriter. I believe you'll be as impressed by Shelby's hardwired artistry as I am.

"Tennessee Without You"

About his latest release, Chris said: "The concept of the song came about while I was in the recording studio with some friends. We wanted to write a song about a woman who breaks up with her boyfriend, and his best revenge is becoming a big musician. Playing everywhere that she goes, it’s tough for her to move on with her life with constant reminders of him."  Chris Shelby released an impressive music video for his single, "Tennessee Without You." Watch it here:

● From: Shrewsbury, MA

● Current single: Tennessee Without Me

● What led you to music: Music has always been a big part of my family's life, but growing up an athlete I was mainly focused on sports. I started doing karaoke for fun, and realized I had a talent. Less than a year ago, I decided to pick up a guitar and teach myself the same songs I was singing at karaoke. After discovering music was a true passion of mine, I took it a step further and started writing my own music… and here we are!

● How would you describe your sound: Country rock, Americana, Outlaw

● Who inspires you: My family!

● Awards/accolades: 2023 New England Music Award Nominee- Rising Star Massachusetts

● Dream duet partner: Megan Moroney, and/or Chris Stapleton

● Favorite country throwback song: Weymore Blues- Waylon Jennings

● First country concert: Chris Stapleton

● Day Job: Utility Worker

● Most proud moment: There’s lots of moments in my life I’d say I'm proud of, but being able to chase my dreams is undoubtedly the biggest.

● Crazy thing that happened in your music career: This whole journey is crazy to me, I never thought this would be my life! It’s a surreal feeling to play in front of a crowd of 300+ people, and have them sing my songs back to me.

● Other things you like to do: Snowmobiling, spending summer days on the boat, and sharing quality time with friends and family.

● Fun facts: I’m a hockey player and still make time to play on a men's league team every Thursday. ROLL EURO!

● Mantra: You are capable of anything you put your mind to.

* May 25 - Anheuser-Busch Biergarten, Summer Kickoff. Merrimack,NH . 1-4PM

* May 25 - Erik’s Church, Windham, ME. 8-11PM

* August 10 - Lilac Hedge Farm, Country Fest. Rutland, MA

* Sept 7 - Indian Ranch, Opening for BRETT YOUNG on the Corral Stage, Webster, MA

* Oct 2 - The Playwright Bar, Boston, MA

Follow Chris Selby on all his social media pages so you can keep up with the latest happenings, music, videos and shows!

Every week, Kruser’s Local Catch highlights New England’s homegrown country music talent, and tells you where to catch them locally and in Nashville. Click here to view previous catches.

*Singer/Songwriters With Original Music: Please Submit For Consideration On The Local Catch By Emailing: Carolyn.Kruse@Bbgi.Com