There is a saying that goes, “Country music is three chords and the truth.” The unique blend of storytelling and songwriting weaving tales of love, hope, heartbreak and sadness resonates with its listeners. One country music artist who has managed to keep the broadly sonic music for modern culture is “Arkansas Dave” Pennington, a country music star recognized by global fans of Americana music for his remarkable discography and impressive live performances.
Born in Little Rock and raised in the rural town of Camden, Arkansas, Arkansas Dave had always wanted to be part of a creative community that shares his love for the arts. His childhood was no fairytale, as the multi-instrumentalist grew up in a house divided by fundamental Christianity and crippling drug abuse, only finding solace in music. With nothing but his love for music and a heart full of dreams, the go-getter relocated from his childhood home to North Arkansas, surviving on side jobs while working on his craft.
Fueled by his passion, the creative individual found his way to the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin, Texas, where he enrolled at the Media Tech school and honed his craft in the same studio where Willie Nelson and Neil Young cut records. Becoming a part of the eclectic music scene of his city, the budding musician launched his career as the drummer for Guitar Shorty & The Hard Pans, rising to local stardom, thus leading to the debut of his first record featuring the Swampers, the legendary Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section.
Hitting the airwaves in the form of a searing and unforgettable blue rock epic, the self-titled debut album chronicled the artist’s life, humble beginnings and triumphs over a lifetime of hardships to get on the stage. It gives credence to his artistic talent and impressive lyricism and has been an enormous success all over various music charts nationwide. The renowned media blog Pop Dose even hailed the record as “nothing but pure goodness.”
Now a seasoned country artist redefining the landscape of country music, Arkansas Dave has toured several cities from Switzerland to Nashville and all over the U.K. since his debut. In September, the musician returned to Nashville for the annual Americanafest, a celebration of folk, country, blues and soul, joining the all-star lineup of the event. “Taking this record on the road means the world to me,” Dave says. “It’s all I’ve ever dreamt of.”
Not to be mistaken for a one-hit wonder, the multi-instrumentalist is currently working on his second album, to be released by the summer of next year. While his debut album showcases his flexibility in the different music genres, the yet-to-be-released album focused on classic country music – an older style but a modern approach.
Arkansas Dave draws motivation from his innate love for country music and its authenticity that resonates with real people. He continues to channel all his influence and passion for music to tell stories through songwriting, distinctive in his dedication to making the best music. In the coming years, Arkansas Dave wants to continue making music that resonates with his listeners and helps them feel connected to a community that cares about them.
