Dillon Carmichael knows a little bit about what makes a classic Country song. The Kentucky native grew up with those sounds seemingly in the air, as names like Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley were both born not far from his rustic homeplace of Burgin (population 965). It was all over his radio growing up, as he was listening to the greats, such as Waylon Jennings and Vern Gosdin.
It was also in his family, as his father and uncles performed in a Southern Gospel Quartet, and his mother also sang around the area. Her brothers — future Country superstars John Michael and Eddie Montgomery — also made a name for themselves performing around the Eastern Kentucky area, as well. Dillon says that as much as it was a part of his surroundings, it was sure to rub off on him: “I knew eventually that it was something I was going to want on my own at some point, and I fell in love with it too.”
That love of those traditional sounds shines through brightly in Carmichael’s new single, “It’s Simple,” which Billboard is excited to premiere. He says the song consists of his memories of coming of age at the place where Kentucky State Routes 33 and 152 meet.
“This song is about appreciating the simplicity of living in a small country town. I loved growing up in a small town. I hope that when people hear this song they’re, reminded of the simple things that really matter in life: Love is for making, kids are for raising and home is a place in your heart — no matter where you come from.”
Carmichael has a deep sense of not only where he’s from, but also where he wants to go, from a career standpoint. “The Opry is a big thing to me,” he responds when asked about his carere goals. “That’s always been a goal of mine. I think that success is moving forward. I think that achieving your goals is something that is never ending. I’d like to have a number one on the charts, and, of course, sell a million records. I’d like to play Rupp Arena in Lexington, as well as the FFA National Convention.I grew up going to that, and I remember seeing acts like Craig Morgan play it.
“I think that the biggest mark of success to me, is just achieving your goals – and setting new ones,” he concludes. “I don’t think that ever stops.”