Charles Esten Tributes 'My Incredible Wife' With 'Passion Project' Debut

Charles Esten shared his long-awaited “passion project” with a sweet nod to his wife of more than three decades. The Nashville alum released his debut album, Love Ain’t Pretty, on Friday (January 26).

“This is a beautiful and special day for me. This album that I have poured myself into over the last number of years is finally out into the world. I’m feeling a million different emotions because of that, but by far, the overriding one would be deep gratitude,” Esten said in a statement. “It’s hard for me to convey how thankful I am for the myriad of people, without whom, this album does not exist, but I will definitely do my best in the coming days. Love ain’t pretty and life is hard, but when you’re surrounded by the kindness and talent that I’ve been blessed to be lifted by, it sure is beautiful.”

Esten said in a post on Instagram that his wife, Patty, “not only provided inspiration but countless hours of hard work,” as he created his debut record. The singer-songwriter and actor — known for roles like Deacon Claybourne in the smash-hit musical drama Nashville, and Ward Cameron in Outer Banks, among others — wrote in his caption:

“My debut album ‘Love Ain’t Pretty’ is OUT NOW!! This passion project would not have been possible without all of the amazing and talented people I’ve been blessed to work alongside throughout it’s creation. Most especially, my incredible wife Patty who not only provided inspiration but countless hours of hard work. A huge thank you, as well, to my dedicated and loyal fans. This album is for you, in deep gratitude for your unwavering and sustaining support. I can only hope you enjoy it as half much as I enjoyed making it. THANK YOU!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻”

Esten previously released “One Good Move,” a ballad that serves as a heartwarming tribute to his wife. He co-wrote the track with Sam Backoff, Zarni deVette, and Elise Hayes, and said at the time that “after 10 years of making music in Nashville, I am very excited to be putting the final touches on my debut album.”

1. Love Ain’t Pretty
2. A Little Right Now
3. One Good Move
4. In a Bar Somewhere
5. I Ain’t
6. Another Song About You
7. When Love Ain’t Love
8. Candlelight
9. Back in My Life Again
10. Make You Happy
11. Willing to Try
12. Maybe I’m Alright
13. Down the Road, with Eric Paslay
14. Somewhere in the Sunshine

Find the full Love Ain’t Pretty album on iHeartRadio here, and listen to a few of the tracks below.

“One Good Move”

“Love Ain’t Pretty”

“When Love Ain’t Love”

“Make You Happy”

“Somewhere in the Sunshine”