CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Self-proclaimed troublemaker and Polk County, Georgia native Dalton Dover just can’t seem to leave our area for too long. Prepare yourselves, as he brings his explosive talent back to his hometown of Marietta for the highly anticipated Georgia Country Music Fest on September 1.
“This is going to be one hell of a ride,” Dover exclaimed with a glint of mischief in his eyes. Sharing the stage with powerhouse performers Koe Wetzel and Trey Lewis, the atmosphere will undoubtedly ignite with wild energy.
Dover has been on an unstoppable journey over the past year, touring alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, including the likes of Tyler Hubbard and Parker McCollum. The experience has been nothing short of exhilarating for the rising star.
“What a damn whirlwind this has been,” Dover grinned. “Everyone has been so unbelievably kind and welcoming. It’s like I stumbled upon a secret society of legends who have embraced me with open arms. I can’t express how truly incredible the journey has been.”
Deep down, Dover always knew that pursuing music was his calling. However, it wasn’t until the start of 2019, after making decent money from live performances, that it became painfully evident that he couldn’t settle for anything else.
“Being on ‘The Voice’ [Season 16] lit a fire under my ass,” Dover admitted, a rebellious spark in his eyes. “Once I got off that show, I started putting my music out there, and that was it. No turning back. Blake [Shelton], man, he’s been my rock. Ever since the show, he’s shown unwavering support. He even called me last year to invite me to make my Grand Ole Opry debut. It’s surreal to have him in my corner.”
Collaborating with Shelton was just the tip of the iceberg for Dover. He recently spilled the beans, revealing that he had recorded a duet with one of his country music idols – the legendary Vince Gill.
“This is exclusive information, but I can’t contain my excitement,” Dover shared with a boyish grin. “I had the honor of recording a duet with Vince Gill for his iconic track ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain.’ We haven’t set a release date yet, but let me tell you, the world is not ready for what’s about to hit them. I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that I spoke to him on the phone. I’ve been listening to him since I was knee-high. It’s mind-blowing.”
While teaming up with Gill certainly represents a monumental achievement, Dover has even more up his sleeve. He possesses a treasure trove of unreleased music patiently waiting to be unleashed upon the world.
During his recent Chattanooga show, fans got a taste of the upcoming tracks as Dover lit up the stage alongside Parker McCollum.
“You have no idea what’s coming!” he exclaimed with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. “I’ve got a vault full of new music, all ready to go. But I’m biding my time, waiting for the perfect moment to release it. We just dropped ‘Night To Go,’ and I promise you, there’s plenty more where that came from.”
Dover shared that he’s been hard at work on an EP, although there isn’t a set timeline for its completion. He couldn’t be prouder of the music he released earlier this year, with tracks like “I Wouldn’t Be Here” holding a special place in his heart.
“I had that title saved in my phone for ages,” Dover revealed, his voice tinged with emotion. “I’ve always wanted to write a song for my mom, and it just clicked. Mother’s Day was approaching, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. I recorded a demo the very next day and played it for my mom the following week. She adores that song. Every time she starts her car, she cranks up the volume.”
One of Dover’s instant classics, “Giving Up On That,” has been making waves as his first radio single. The track is rapidly rising through the ranks on both the Mediabase and Billboard charts, currently sitting comfortably in the top 50.
“I co-wrote that song with my two best friends, and let me tell you, it’s a damn anthem,” Dover declared, his eyes sparkling with pride. “When we were working on it, we knew we had something special. But I had no clue it would be my debut single on the radio. It’s been an absolute whirlwind.”
Prepare yourselves, for the Georgia Country Music Fest is not only a stage set for Dalton Dover’s triumphant return, but it also features other hometown heroes. LaFayette natives Channing Wilson and Ben Chapman will be gracing the event on Sunday, promising a lineup that will leave you breathless and craving for more.
