Thomas Rhett Shares How His Mom Inspired His Music

Thomas Rhett has undoubtedly had strong musical influences throughout his life, including his father, Rhett Akins, a 90’s country icon. But Rhett explains that his dad wasn’t the only musical influence in the household... His mother also instilled a passion for music. Rhett reflected in a statement previously shared by his record label:

“My mom‘s dad was a very musical person. Lead worship in church, taught me some things on the guitar. I still have a guitar today that he handed me down actually. And they both were encouraging. My mom was a little bit more hesitant, just knowing how often my dad was gone on the road. Wasn’t sure if she wanted that lifestyle for me but was always so encouraging, and still to this day is my number one fan.”

Rhett recently took the stage at the 2025 iHeartCountry Festival, which returned to Moody Center in Austin, Texas. The country star performed career-spanning hits, from fan-favorite throwbacks to anthems included on his most recent studio record. Rhett released his latest album as a tribute to his wife, Lauren Akins. The couple met growing up, and got married in 2012 in Nashville, Tennessee. They now share four young daughters together.