There are musicians who train long and practice hard, studying away at notes and riffs. And then there are those who are simply naturals at what they do, who can pick up a guitar and make something sound good. Josh Turner is of the latter breed of musician. He's currently one of the biggest new names in country without meaning to, and his debut was an unprecedented smash. It's talent, no matter how it's looked at.

Josh Turner: Country Music's Boy Wonder

"People need hope, no matter how far down they are."

There are musicians who train long and practice hard, studying away at notes and riffs. And then there are those who are simply naturals at what they do, who can pick up a guitar and make something sound good. Josh Turner is of the latter breed of musician. He's currently one of the biggest new names in country without meaning to, and his debut was an unprecedented smash. It's talent, no matter how it's looked at.

Josh Turner Just Sings

Born in Hannah, South Carolina on November 20, 1977, Turner was attracted to music at an early age. He was a lead singer and a bass for their church choir. He had a similar role in Thankful Hearts, the gospel quartet he formed. He grew up imitating the voices of their men's quartet at church and singing along to Randy Travis songs. That, along with songs from his grandparents' music collection, is the foundation of most of his songs, he says.

Debuts are supposed to be memorable for any artist, but Turner's is unique in two ways. First, he debuted at the Grand Ole Opry, one of the most respected institutions of country music. Second, he - a first-timer and relative nobody in the music scene - got a standing ovation and an encore from the entire audience for his first single, Long Black Train. Add that to the fact that MCA signed him on the month prior - after hearing just two songs. From that fateful night on December 21, 2001, Turner would be a certified country star.

Josh Turner Makes It Big

After getting certified gold status from the RIAA, Josh Turner's debut was followed up by Your Man in 2006. It would turn out to be a fruitful year for Turner, as his sophomore album was certified platinum and his first Grammy nomination was announced.

Everything is Fine was released the following year, with three singles from the album climbing the country music charts. Later that year, Turner was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by Vince Gill, whom Turner admits is an idol. A round of touring followed to promote Everything is Fine.

In mid-2009, Turner announced on his website that recording for a new album was done. Although the fourth album, entitled Haywire, was originally slated for a November 2009 release, the date has been pushed back all the way to February 2010. The lead single Why Don't We Just Dance, however, has since been released.

Did You Know That...

• ...Turner had a brief stint in film? He played George Beverly Shea in the 2008 biopic Billy: The Early Years about the life of American evangelist Dr. Billy Graham.
• ...he's the second youngest inductee to the Grand Ole Opry? Only Carrie Underwood, who was let in at 26, beats the 30-year old inductee.
• ...live performances are a family affair? His wife Jennifer does background vocals and plays the piano when Josh is on tour.

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