Rebel Engine Entertainment recording artist Lucas Hoge released his brand new album, Dirty South, on Friday, July 28. Since it’s release, the new collection of music has already claimed the top spot on the Billboard Top Country Albums Sales Chart as well as landed at #5 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart. This impressive feat is a massive milestone for the rising star, and the momentum is set to continue as Lucas showcases his new album on his upcoming Dirty South Tour.

In an exclusive interview with Lucas Hoge, the singer/songwriter shares details with us about his new album, new tour and so much more! He even revealed some exciting news that will be coming out in December! Find out what his exciting news is and more below in our CMR Exclusive Q&A with Lucas Hoge.

Country Music Rocks (CMR): You recently released your brand new album, Dirty South, on Friday, July 28! For folks that may not have picked it up just yet, what can fans expect with this new collection of music?

Lucas Hoge: This has been a long hard and passionate process putting this album together. This is by far my best project to date including co-writes with some great friends to songs from some big hitters there is something for everyone, party songs to love songs to heart felt songs that will make you think.

CMR:  In addition to the new album, you’ll be heading out on your Dirty South Tour. Tell us a little about this upcoming tour.

Lucas Hoge: We are hitting several iconic southern spots starting at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green down to the Everglades then to Dayton Speedway and doing a pop up show at the iconic Sun Records in Memphis, among others.

CMR: For folks that haven’t seen you perform yet, how would you best describe your set?

Lucas Hoge: I try and keep it as high energy as possible but I love telling the stories behind the songs or what inspired me to write or perform that particular song. I like the audience to feel like we are all setting around the campfire hanging out and just having a good time.

CMR: You’ve spent a lot of time on the road this year. If you had to get stuck somewhere, what city or town would you want it to be?

Lucas Hoge: Off the top of my head it would be back home in Hubbell NE. I don’t get to see my family much so I would love to get stuck there for a few days.

CMR: Based on your career experiences so far, what’s been one of your top standout moments where you’ve just been like WOW, this is really happening?

Lucas Hoge: It would have to be the moment I got to open up for George Jones at the Ryman.

CMR: You’ve had the opportunity to experience some really cool moments in your career, what’s still pretty high up there on your bucket list as an artist?

Lucas Hoge: I really want to play the Opry and as much as they will let me, it’s been a dream of mine since I was a boy and fell in love with country music.

CMR: With 2017 already past its halfway point, what are some additional things that you are looking forward to and excited about for the remainder of this year?

Lucas Hoge: Besides all the great shows we get to do, I will be releasing a Christmas album this year that I’m extremely proud of.

CMR: You hold a very busy schedule. When you’re not writing or performing, what do you like to do in your off-time? How do you unwind and make the most of your time off?

Lucas Hoge: When it comes to unwinding I love to be at home sitting around the fire pit and grilling up some good food. I love getting out in the outdoors as much as possible so when I get the chance that’s where you’ll find me.

CMR: What is one song that you remember hearing on the radio that made a significant impact on you and still to this day when it comes on, it takes you back?

Lucas Hoge: MUCH TOO YOUNG by Garth Brooks it’s one of my favorites, so much that I have a tribute to it and Garth on my album called “The Power Of Garth”

CMR: Music consistently evolves and grows, and we’ve certainly seen that with country music. What is one aspect about this genre that has always resonated with you and continues to do so?

Lucas Hoge: The fact the songs, still to this day, typically are all about real life and stories that everyone can relate to, songs that are grounded in faith, family and fun.

Dirty South is available now. Grab your copy at a retail store near you, or online at any digital music outlet such as iTunes here.

Stay connected with Lucas Hoge by visiting his Official Website, and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.