Country music artist Kenny Chesney has expressed his heartfelt support for Taylor Swift, who was named Time magazine’s 2023 Person of the Year. Chesney, renowned for hits such as “When the Sun Goes Down,” took to Instagram to share a sincere message and reflect on their early interactions.
In his post, Chesney commended Swift’s undeniable talent, reminiscing about the first time they shared the stage. “Taylor, I knew looking in your eyes that first time on stage with us, you had ‘it.’
The hunger, that something special… A gift not everyone has to connect,” he wrote, accompanied by nostalgic photos of himself and a young Swift. “It’s been awesome watching you shine!” he added.
Chesney extended his congratulations to Swift on the prestigious recognition, expressing pride in her musical artistry and personal qualities.
Swift, in her Person of the Year interview, shared a poignant story about her connection with Chesney. At 17, she secured a gig as Chesney’s opening act, believing it to be a career-changing opportunity.
However, due to the tour’s sponsorship by a beer company, Swift, being underage, couldn’t join. Chesney’s promoter later approached her on her 18th birthday with a card and a check, apologizing for the missed opportunity and expressing his belief in her talent.
The generous check provided Swift with the financial means to support her budding career, enabling her to pay her band, cover tour expenses, and pursue her dreams.
Chesney, known for hits like “You and Tequila,” explained to Time that he recognized Swift’s gift of storytelling and foresaw her success in the music industry.
“She was a writer who had something to say,” he emphasized. “That isn’t something you can fake by writing clichés. You can only live it, then write it as real as possible.”
Swift’s recognition as Time’s Person of the Year marked a historic moment, as she became the first woman to grace the magazine’s annual cover twice since its inception in 1927.
Previously featured in 2017 among the “Silence Breakers,” Swift now stands alone in this accomplishment.
In response to the honor, Swift expressed profound happiness and pride, describing it as the proudest and most creatively fulfilling moment of her career.
The “Karma” singer’s journey from her early days in country music to her current status as a pop superstar is not only a testament to her talent but also a story of resilience and determination.