Eddie Montgomery's Journey Of Healing After Troy Gentry's Passing

Four years apart has not loosened the bond between Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry. Gentry died in a September 2017 helicopter crash, but Montgomery says he still feels him in his heart and soul. The enduring connection is a testament to their strong friendship, which transcends even death.

This deep emotional bond manifested in Montgomery's first solo album, Ain't No Closing Me Down. While he was initially hesitant to bare his soul as a songwriter, the new project showcases a more vulnerable side of him. The songs reflect not just personal struggles but also the influence of his late friend.

Montgomery shares, "As I was writing the songs, I think he was helping me. I think he's always helping me." This sentiment highlights how the legacy of Gentry continues to inspire Montgomery, guiding him through both his songwriting process and life challenges.

Biography of Eddie Montgomery

Emotional Reflections on Loss

For Montgomery, the process of creating this album was not just about music. It was a way to cope with the loss of his friend and a means to keep his memory alive. He explains that during performances, he often feels Gentry's presence, joking that sometimes “that’s T-Roy pulling a prank” when unexpected things happen on stage.

Life has dealt Montgomery significant blows, including the tragic loss of his son Hunter in 2015 and the death of another son in a car accident years prior. These experiences have shaped his music and his approach to life, fostering a deeper connection with his audience and his late friend.

New Music and Collaborations

The new album available at Walmart features a collaboration with Tanya Tucker and a poignant song he wrote for the film Old Henry. Montgomery attributes much of his creative process to the tragedies he's faced, intertwining his personal stories with his professional journey. He believes that the road band plays a crucial role in this new chapter, fulfilling a dream he shared with Gentry.

As he reflects on Gentry’s family and their journey since his passing, Montgomery remains committed to honoring the legacy of their musical partnership. He has not only kept his word to Gentry to continue making music but has also achieved a long-held aspiration of theirs to involve the road band in their recordings. This commitment represents a blend of nostalgia and innovation that keeps their spirit alive in the country music scene.

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