Kenny Chesney was born on March 26, 1968 in Knoxville, Tennessee. He grew up in nearby Luttrell (home of Chet Atkins). As a child he listened to both country and rock n’ roll. Surprisingly, unlike many other musicians, Chesney did not grow up thinking about music. It was not until he was attending college at East Tennessee State University that his focus zoomed into country music. While attending school, he received a guitar for a Christmas gift. Chesney practiced everyday and eventually joined a blue grass group composed of his fellow students. He then began writing his own music and playing at local Mexican restaurants to earn tips. While at school, he made a self-titled demo album.