Chesney’s Country Music Hall of Fame Speech: 5 Things We Learned

Kenny Chesney became the 158th member of the Country Music Hall of Fame on Sunday (Oct. 19) and his 15-minute speech was filled with gratitude, anecdotes and memories.

• Chesney, June Carter Cash and producer Tony Brown were celebrated during the Country Music Hall of Fame Medallion ceremony.
• Eric Church, Megan Moroney and Kelsea Ballerini performed Chesney songs before Joe Galante inducted him.
• Chesney was inducted in the Modern Era category.

Related: 60 Country Artists Not In the Country Music Hall of Fame

While he didn’t cry or shed tears like many who’ve earned a bronze bust in the Hall of Fame, he did get emotional when talking about his professional team and family — especially his mother and sister.

The 2000s hitmaker also gave the audience a peek behind the curtain at his life off stage. There weren’t any shocking confessions, but he did share several personal details that add more color to who Kenny Chesney is beyond the spotlight.

A personal conversation with Megan Moroney

“She asked me if I ever let myself feel accomplished,” Chesney said as he began his speech. “We were outside the Pittsburgh Steelers football stadium, just hanging out by the bus after a show, and I thought that was a very smart question for someone who’s just now getting into the business.

“The truth is, I never really let myself sit in accomplishment very much. I’ve always been very creative, very driven. But tonight, walking into that rotunda and taking the group shot with a lot of my heroes and a lot of my friends — it was the first time that I have ever felt accomplished in my life.”

Kenny’s never had a contract with his manager

Clint Higham is Kenny Chesney’s manager. During his remarks, Chesney expressed his gratitude for all Higham has done and talked about how they grew up in the business together. “We’ve never had a contract and we never will,” the singer shared.

Kenny’s Aunt Missy and their strange timing

Kenny Chesney’s mom, dad, sister and extended family were in the audience and that meant a lot to him. He specifically shared how much it meant that his mother and sister were there and then told a cute story about his auntie.

“My mom and my grandmother were in the hospital at the same time having me and my Aunt Missy. Some really East Tennessee stuff, but it’s all true.”

Alabama’s Tough Love

“Alabama took me on the road early on when nobody would take me on the road … we were in Reno, Nev. and I was watching Alabama do sound check in Reno. I was just exhausted already. I watched them come off stage and Teddy goes, ‘What’s wrong with you?’

I said, ‘I’m tired Teddy.’ He goes, ‘Wait until you’ve been out here 42 years and then you can be tired.’ (Laughs) He was right.”

Did Kenny Chesney Finally Launch His Relationship?

Fans have long speculated that Chesney is in a relationship with Mary Nolan. While he didn’t confirm anything directly during his speech, he did give her a meaningful shoutout.

“I wanna thank Mary Nolan for taking care of me and Ponch and Da Ruba Girl — our dogs,” Chesney said about nine minutes into his speech. “I appreciate you being here tonight.”