You know Rhett Akins from his 90s solo career and for the songs he’s penned for his son, Thomas Rhett. He’s also the man behind some big songs for other artists and some of them may surprise you.
In late 1994, Akins released his first single as a solo artist, “What They’re Talkin’ About.” The song became a Top 50 hit and was followed by “I Brake For Brunettes.” The following year was even bigger for Akins, who released the song that became his signature. “That Ain’t My Truck” dropped in 1995 and climbed all the way to No. 3. In 1996, he released “Don’t Get Me Started.” That is the singer’s first — and only — No. 1 hit as an artist.
Once the 2000s hit, Akins hung up his hat as an artist and started a successful songwriting career. He’s written tracks for his country star son but he’s also written for a number of other artists. Many of those songs have gone on to become hits. Here are six songs Akins has penned for other artists.
1. “Dirt on My Boots”
Akins is one of the writers behind “Dirt On My Boots,” the No. 1 single from Jon Pardi. He wrote the track alongside Jesse Frasure and Ashley Gorley.
2. “Boys ‘Round Here”
This very catchy country song was also penned by Akins, Dallas Davidson and Craig Wiseman. It was a No. 1 song for Blake Shelton on the country chart and a No. 12 song on the all-genre chart.
3. “Mind Reader”
Dustin Lynch‘s pop-country “Mind Reader” is another song that has Akins’ name on it. This was a No. 1 for the Broken Bow artist, despite having mixed reviews from critics. Akins wrote the tune with Nashville songwriter, Ben Hayslip.
4. “Ready Set Roll”
Chase Rice‘s “Ready Set Roll” is another earworm that Akins had a hand in. It appeared on an EP of the singer’s as well as his first major label album, Ignite the Night. Rice helped co-wrote the song with Akins and Chris DeStefano.
5. “Parking Lot Party”
Lee Brice’s “Parking Lot Party” had not one, but two, Akins family members behind it. Rhett wrote it with his song, Thomas Rhett, Luke Laird and Brice. The party song has even become a staple in several of TR’s live shows.
6. “Hey Girl”
“Hey Girl” became a hit for singer Billy Currington but Akins also had a hand in this one. He wrote it with his songwriting partners, Gorley and DeStefano. Currington released it as the first single from his album, We Are Tonight.
These aren’t the only songs Akins has penned over the years. He’s also written tracks for Luke Bryan, LoCash, Brooks & Dunn, Brantley Gilbert, Frankie Ballard and more.
