Backstage at the Egyptian: Scotty McCreery

Interview with Scotty McCreery

Conducted by Michaela Alcantar

Michaela: Having co-written most your songs, what is your process and inspiration for creating new ones?

Scotty: Real life is my main inspiration for writing.  I like to take something that I’ve experienced or someone I know has experienced and transform it into a song.  All of the love songs I’ve written were inspired by my wife Gabi.

Michaela: Since your debut, you’ve had meet countless of people in your travels; is there a meeting and interaction with someone that you remember to this day?

Scotty: I’ve been fortunate enough to meet some amazing people so far in this career: Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Garth Brooks, Randy Travis, Josh Turner, Dolly Parton, Charley Pride, Harry Connick Jr., Charlie Daniels, Priscilla Presley, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Steven Curtis Chapman, and President Barack Obama, just to name a few.  One of my favorite artists is R&B legend Charlie Wilson – I’ve loved him since I first heard him on the radio when I was a kid. When he played a concert in Raleigh a few years back, he invited me on stage to sing with him and that was such a huge thrill for me. We hung out backstage for a bit and he’s just a great guy. And his life story is inspiring – I think everyone should read his memoir, I Am Charlie Wilson.

Michaela: How does it feel when you receive an award that recognizes your work and talent throughout the years?

Scotty: I put my entire heart and soul into my music, and it’s always nice to have my work recognized from time to time. But I don’t do this for awards. I love to create and perform music. It’s my passion. And through my music, I hope to be a positive light in this world.

Michaela: Do you have any goals, professional or personal, you would want to reach in the coming years?

Scotty: Personally, I just got married last year and I’m striving to be a good husband.  At some point in the future, I want to be a father and raise a family.  Professionally, I want to get better and better at my craft. I want to play venues I haven’t played before such as Red Rocks in Denver.  And one day, I hope to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Michaela: Do you have any last words for those that are going to the show?

Scotty: I appreciate everybody coming out to see the show and I hope everyone has a great time!