Old Is New Again For Cory Keefe

Cory Keefe my seem like a “new” artist, with his debut album, I’ll Keep It Country, just out in April 2021. He did, however, grow up around music, and performed professionally after high school around his native Florida Gulf Coast stomping grounds. But he really “got serious” about it only three years ago. With his twin brother Dustin as his partner in rhyme, he has been honing his performance and songwriting skills, while releasing a debut full of great songs by good friends. “I guess we just got lucky and got some good friends that just happen to be good writers,” Cory says. The album is poised for success, having been produced by Nashville hitmaker Buddy Hyatt.

Cory’s style, which filters classic country sounds through a contemporary lens, has garnered him the “neotraditional” designation. When asked his perspective on that label, Cory says “I kind of take it as being traditional—showing my roots—but it’s still modern…” He mentions Luke Combs as prime example of the movement, and he has been grouped with the likes of Cody Johnson, Aaron Watson, and Jon Pardi as well.

As he looks toward connecting with the growing base of fans gravitating toward his classic-but-modern vibe, Cory sees music festivals as a key avenue. “I really like festivals…where the people come for the music.” Look for him at some of the larger festivals as the world continues to open up.

Cory was among the artists who performed at Nashville’s CMA Theatre at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for the 2019 Keith Whitley Memorial Show. Cory found himself on a stellar roster that included Garth Brooks, Joe Diffie, Joe Nichols, Ricky Skaggs, Tracy Lawrence, Mark Wills and more. Not intimidated by the company, however, his performance brought the audience to its feet.

One of Cory’s biggest goals is to get his original songs out there on his next album. He cites Kevin Denney as a songwriting role model. “He’s a heck of a songwriter and an even better singer,” says Cory. “When I look at him, that’s where I want to be.” When he’s not wowing audiences with his country chops, Cory works as an electrician, and enjoys softball, bowling, racing, and basically anything competitive.

Cory’s goals aren’t lofty. He’s grounded and solid and happy to simply sing, play and inspire audiences as artists before inspired him. Like everyone in the industry, Cory Keefe is eager for the touring world to open back up for live music and touring once again.

Check out Cory’s website here. Listen to the full interview here.