Trace Adkins is one of my favorite country singers. What is he up to now, and when can we expect some new music from him?
—Linda H., Ohio
Trace Adkins, 39, is working on his new album, which should be out sometime this year. When he's not in the studio, Adkins has been busy touring. He also has been spotted singing the national anthem at professional football and hockey games. "Performing live is something I absolutely live for," Adkins says. The son of a papermill worker, Adkins was born in Springhill, La., (pop. 5,590) and grew up in nearby Sarepta (pop. 900). He worked on offshore oil rigs for 10 years before moving to Nashville, Tenn., and finding success quickly with hits like (This Ain't No) Thinkin' Thing and Every Light in the House is On. Adkins and his wife, Rhonda, live in Nashville with daughter Mackenzie, 3. His daughters Tarah, 15, and Sarah, 12, live in Louisiana.