ERNEST

Ernest Keith Smith is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter known for blending traditional country music with modern hip-hop influences. Smith has established a reputation in the country music industry for his unique songwriting style, which incorporates elements from artists such as Eminem and George Jones. He is a four-time CMA Triple Play Award winner, two-time Variety Hitmakers honoree, and has received nominations for the Grammy, ACM, and CMA Awards. Smith has achieved 13 No. 1 hits as a songwriter.

Smith's journey to Nashville was unconventional. At age 19, he experienced a heart attack due to a viral infection, which prompted him to leave college baseball and pursue a career in music. Drawing on his background as a rapper, Smith brought a freestyle approach to country songwriting, setting his work apart in the music industry. His distinctive style led to co-writing the title track of Florida Georgia Line's album "Dig Your Roots." He has also contributed to Chris Lane's "Big, Big Plans," Morgan Wallen's "More Than My Hometown," and Sam Hunt's "Breaking Up Was Easy in the 90s."

After writing songs for Chris Lane and Jake Owen, Smith signed a recording contract and management agreement with Big Loud. He has released three studio albums: "Locals Only," "Flower Shops (The Album)," and "Nashville, Tennessee." The album "Nashville, Tennessee" features 26 songs and collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Lukas Nelson, Jelly Roll, and HARDY. The Tennessean described the record as one that honors the spirit of Music City while showcasing Smith's dynamic songwriting abilities. His work has earned him a No. 1 at country radio as a solo artist, in addition to his run of No. 1 hits as a songwriter, including the all-genre chart-topper "I Had Some Help" by Post Malone.

Smith co-wrote the Hot 100 record-breaking single "I Had Some Help" by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen, which earned him a Grammy nomination. He has sold out shows and performed two nights at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Smith has supported major tours, including Morgan Wallen's Stadium Tour and arena shows for Jelly Roll, and has served as direct support for Lainey Wilson and Old Dominion. He also hosts the podcast "Just Being Ernest," where he discusses the music industry with fellow musicians. Smith continues to be recognized as a significant voice in contemporary country music, contributing to the genre's evolution through his songwriting, performances, and collaborations.