Uncle Kracker is an iconic musical figure with an extensive catalog of catchy hits. A fixture on the music scene for decades, his legacy remains strong.
Multiplatinum artist Matthew Shafer found fame when he filled in for Kid Rock during a turntable competition at a Clawson, Michigan nightclub. Shafer contributed seven cuts to Rock’s RIAA diamond-certified Devil Without a Cause album before going solo with 2000’s Double Wide release.
1. What is his stage name?
Uncle Kracker is an incredible musician who has found great success in the music industry. His infectious melodies and captivating lyrics have won him millions of album sales. Additionally, he collaborates with other artists while being active as a philanthropist within his community.
His musical style has evolved over time from rap rock to country music. Additionally, he has written songs for other artists including Kid Rock and Kenny Chesney.
In 2000, Kracker released his debut album Double Wide to much acclaim, reaching No. 43 on the Billboard albums chart and featuring as its single a cover version of Dobie Gray’s 1973 Top 5 hit “Drift Away.” This success helped establish Kracker as an artist.
2. How did he get his stage name?
Uncle Kracker, real name Matthew Shafer, gained notoriety as the turntablist for Kid Rock’s group Twisted Brown Trucker before embarking on his successful solo career. His 2000 album Double Wide established some independence and brought about hits such as “Follow Me” and a cover of Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away,” cementing its place among early 2000s staples.
His musical influences span country, rock and hip hop styles allowing him to reach audiences from various genres easily. Additionally, he has collaborated with other artists like Kenny Chesney.
Kracker recently discussed his waterfront home in Michigan and the ways his children are helping him pursue his goal of becoming a professional musician. Additionally, he spoke of Kid Rock collaboration as well as Reason to Drink being his latest release.
3. Has he collaborated with other artists?
Uncle Kracker has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career. With an uncanny ability to combine different genres of music seamlessly, Uncle Kracker has achieved extraordinary chart success. His memorable melodies and relatable lyrics have resonated deeply with audiences and resulted in millions of album sales.
His voice sets him apart from other country music artists; its raspy vocals add an iconic element to his songs which have become well-known worldwide.
As part of his musical career, he also takes an active part in charitable activities. His philanthropy has set a positive example for fans and community alike; supporting various charities through donations or participation in fundraising events has allowed him to build lasting relationships within his industry.
4. What are some of his biggest hits?
Uncle Kracker (real name Matthew Shafer), initially a DJ and turntablist in Kid Rock’s Twisted Brown Trucker backing band, has gone on to establish himself as an immensely popular solo artist. His 2000 major label debut Double Wide reached double platinum sales, and included the #1 pop hit “Follow Me.” No Stranger to Shame reached gold status and featured crossover hits “In A Little While” and a stunning cover of Dobie Gray’s 1970s hit “Drift Away”, which spent 28 weeks at #1 on charts.
Uncle Kracker may have initially struggled to break into country music until joining Kenny Chesney on “When the Sun Goes Down.” Yet after scoring another hit single called “Smile,” Uncle Kracker proved himself worthy of this genre.
5. Has he won any awards?
Uncle Kracker is well known as both an accomplished musician and singer, as well as an award-winning producer. He has produced albums for artists like Kid Rock and Kenny Chesney; working as a producer has allowed him to expand both his musical knowledge and expertise as well as build relationships within the industry.
He has developed an original musical style, fusing country, rock and hip hop. His catchy tunes have been featured in films and television shows alike; moreover he has composed songs for other well-known country artists.
Uncle Kracker has an admiration among fans and country music artists alike, earning him recognition in both realms. Through authentic performances that remain true to themselves and an everlasting commitment to authenticity he continues to influence new artists as well as fans to pursue their goals and live life fully.