Without a doubt, Vince Gill is one of the most prolific, respected, and popular country artists of the last few decades. Vince Gill songs showcased his superb songwriting, outstanding guitar playing, and warm, incredible tenor. So, it was no longer surprising hen he reached a big breakthrough in 1990.
Since then, the country star went on with so many record-breaking achievements. And today, we’re about to get to know him much more with these interesting facts. Keep on scrolling below to find out!
1. He’s a native of Norman, Oklahoma.
Born on April 12, 1957, Vince Gill was raised by a banjo-playing father and a harmonica-playing mother. Gill’s father was actually a federal appellate court judge who played country music on the side. He taught Gill to play banjo and encouraged his career in music at an early age.
2. He gained his first guitar at the age of 10.
Showing his full potential, Gill’s parents bought him a semi-hollow ES-335 Gibson Electric, which unveiled his passion for instruments. Gill was then quick to pick up the fiddle, dobro, mandolin, and bass.
3. He briefly played with Ricky Skaggs.
In 1975, Gill moved to Kentucky and played with the bluegrass band Boone Creek – along with the once unknown Ricky Skaggs.
4. He’s a devoted golfer.
Before Gill embarked on his music career, he played golf for four years at Oklahoma City’s Northwest Classen High School – and it, later on, became a lifelong passion. In 2005, he was inducted into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame. He also received the 2022 Old Tom Morris Award for his enduring lifetime dedication to the game.
5. He’s one of the most awarded male artists in country music.
With twenty-one awards under his belt, Gill has won more Grammys than any other male country artist. He took home his first trophy in 1990 for his song “When I Call Your Name” and went on earning several more, winning at least one award in ten consecutive years.
For You
6. He married twice.
In 1980, Gill married singer-actress Janis Oliver. Two years later, the couple welcomed their first and only child, Jennifer Jerene Gill. However, Janis filed for divorce after seventeen years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. In 2000, Gill married fellow singer-songwriter, Amy Grant.
7. He got his daughter’s name from a song.
In 2001, Gill and Grant were blessed with a daughter named Corrina. Gill revealed that his daughter’s name came from Bob Wills’ song called “Corrina, Corrina.”
8. He hosted twelve consecutive seasons of the Country Music Awards.
Gill’s first appearance started in 1992 – a stint he continued until 2003.
9. He’s part of some iconic bands.
This includes Pure Prairie League, The Cherry Bombs, and The Time Jumpers.
10. He joined the Eagles on tour.
From 2017 and 2018, Gill was the band’s lead vocals which was once sung by the late Glenn Frey.
Truly, Vince Gill has one of the most impressive careers in country music.
