The Comeback Kid: Chris Cagle

There is nothing quite as inspiring to me as a person who has struggled with mistakes in the industry, bad press, and life throwing some low blows and despite all of that can learn, grow, and come back stronger.

After six years of retirement, Chris Cagle is back and is ready to share his music with fans in a whole different way. I asked him where he has been the last few years, and his answers were vulnerable, authentic, honest, and humble. I couldn't help but like and respect him after this interview.

"I had issues to deal with personally, and I blamed the business and not myself. I have been sober for 550 days, lost forty pounds, and am so excited about people showing up to my shows and excited to play for them. My next tour is called "Unfinished Business." I thought it might be too late for me (to come out of retirement), but it isn't."

I asked him for advice for people starting in the Country Music Industry, and his advice was, "Don't sign a record deal, go up and down the road and play for everyone that will listen. If you chase the money, you will lose. The by-product is a little game and a little fortune. Make sure you handle your own money." The years of dealing with Record Labels and management have taught him that the hard way.

His favorite places to play are the Grizzly Rose and Billy Bob's.

"I was the first artist to sell Billy Bob's out three nights in a row." He plays at this legendary Honky Talk in Fort Worth again on December 17th.

"The Grizzly Rose is always a place I am endeared to. I remember back in the day, people would line up around the block for the 250 tickets that would be released the day of the show. I used to drive by and be amazed that this many people were waiting to get tickets to my show."

"Red Rocks is at the top of my list for places I want to play."

I found his humility, new perspective on life, and music very endearing. I think he can only go up from here. His show was full of energy and excitement. I am excited to see where he will go next.