Chris Young Essentials

Chris Young is a throwback by virtue of his voice alone: a rich baritone that puts him in the same league as Trace Adkins and Tracy Lawrence and helps make him one of the most convincing gentlemen in country music. This impression is augmented by his restraint in turning down electric guitars in favor of a little extra twang. Since winning the fourth season of Nashville Star in 2006, Young's shown an ability to make even the cruelest breakup sound dignified and the most torrid romance seem classy. When this guy sings about gettin' you home, he's gonna make sure you get there safely.