Charles Kelley is not only part of the country group Lady A. He is also a Georgia native. He grew up right here in Augusta, which led to a love for the game of golf as well. He describes golf as one of his “greatest passions.”
Kelley just released a cover of the iconic song, “Georgia on My Mind.” And it wasn’t just for the sake of it! It’s part of ESPN’s official commercial for the Masters Tournament this year.
He told Good Morning America, “This song is such a part of my upbringing and a source of pride. I remember singing it in one of my first ever cover bands when I was around 14 years old, at a wedding.”
While the song has been covered my many artists, Kelley wanted to find a way to make the song his own. Initially he planned to do a very stripped down version, but wound up added a little bit to it. Kelley says, “I really love the steel guitar parts.”
Even though the “Georgia on My Mind” cover by Ray Charles is probably one of the most popular, for Charles Kelley, his favorite is Willie Nelson’s version.
Charles Kelley’s Augusta and golf roots run deep. Golf was something he grew up doing with his dad and brothers. He ever worked at the driving range at Augusta National Golf Club as a teen! Another fun fact? Kelley’s mom used money she made renting her house out for Masters to buy Charles and his brother their first guitar and set of drums. Sounds like a great investment!
Source: Good Morning America
Here’s the cover of “Georgia on My Mind” by Charles Kelley: