From Tour Manager to Singer-Songwriter: The Dual Life of Kyle Crownover
Kyle Crownover leads a remarkable double life, meticulously orchestrating the logistical complexities for a prominent music act while simultaneously cultivating his own burgeoning career as a musical artist. He serves as the long-standing tour manager for Tyler Childers, a role demanding precision and adaptability, particularly as Childers' presence has expanded from intimate venues to large-scale arenas. Yet, during the intermittent periods of downtime, Crownover channels his creative energies into composing and performing his original songs, releasing new tracks and earning accolades, all while managing his unique touring companion, Cheryl, his rescue dog, who has inadvertently gained a following of her own.
Crownover's professional trajectory began in 2017 when he assumed the role of tour manager for Tyler Childers. This period coincided with Childers' rapid ascent in the music industry, transforming from local performances to major stadium events. Crownover's responsibilities evolved significantly, managing a growing caravan of tour buses and a larger team, requiring constant adaptation and resilience. His tenure has placed him at the heart of the Appalachian music scene's expansion, witnessing the rise of artists like Sturgill Simpson and Charles Wesley Godwin, alongside Childers.
Despite the demanding nature of tour management, Crownover strategically utilized the periods of respite in Childers' performance schedule. In the latter part of the previous year, during a two-month hiatus, he unveiled four new singles on various streaming platforms. Among these was "The Flame," a collaborative effort with Parker Millsap, which debuted in November. This track, blending folk and blues with an escalating electric rock sound, delves into themes of contemporary life's draining pace. January saw the release of "Good News," co-written with former college peer Zach Russell. This song reflects Crownover's religious upbringing and his critical perspective on certain modern evangelical narratives, born from late-night discussions with Russell.
Crownover's foray into songwriting followed an earlier attempt to establish himself in Nashville, where he sought a publishing agreement. Although that experience resulted in an EP titled "Greatest Hits, Vol. 3," it primarily provided him with a clearer vision for his artistic identity. The recent singles mark a departure from conventional pop country, embracing more indie rock and folk influences, allowing him greater personal and sonic freedom. His multifaceted involvement in the music world, including producing albums for other artists like Adeem the Artist, underscores his unwavering commitment to the industry.
His dedication and unique ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music business have not gone unnoticed. In early June, the Country Music Association recognized Crownover's contributions, nominating him for Tour Manager of the Year, while Childers' team received a nomination for Crew of the Year at the annual Touring Awards. Crownover, emphasizing the collective nature of these honors, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with such a talented team.
This week exemplifies Crownover's dual roles: he will manage Childers' performance at Chicago's Wrigley Field, and prior to that, he will grace the stage himself, opening for Kory Caudill, Childers' keyboardist, at the "Concert for the Human Family" in Denver. Adding a touching dimension to his life on the road is Cheryl, his rescue dog, a beloved fixture in the Childers crew. Cheryl's adoption came about during a pre-show routine involving local shelter dogs, where Crownover found himself captivated. What began as an estimate of a small-sized dog led to her adoption with Childers' approval, and she has since become a social media personality, sharing regular playdates with her adopted siblings from other crew members.
Cheryl's presence has profoundly enhanced Crownover's daily life, fostering more positive interactions and breaking down his natural introversion. He fondly recounts how her companionship brings him joy, tangible in the countless smiles she elicits each day, a testament to the transformative power of a furry friend on the road.