His long streak of chart-toppers showcased a singer as comfortable with a wry story (2006’s “Good Directions,” 2009’s “People Are Crazy”) as he was with a glossy love song (2014’s “Don’t It,” which shouldn’t be confused with his 2008 hit “Don’t”), and he had the sensitivity and humor to make both styles sound convincing.
Currington had his first number one Billboard Country Airplay hit - the slow-burning, soulful “Must Be Doin’ Something Right” - in 2005 long before the rise of bro-country, but his fondness for good times, beer, and good ol’ boys pointed the way toward the sensibility of the 2010s, if not quite the sound. Blessed with an easy touch and a fondness for chill vibes, Billy Currington carved out a distinctive place for himself within the contemporary country firmament of the 2000s and 2010s.
