Most know Morgan Wallen for being a country music star who has sold millions of albums, won numerous awards, and dominated the charts. At the same time, the singer found himself dealing with a few legal issues and scandals. Working through his problems, Wallen decided to channel those feelings into his newest album, I’m The Problem. Offering a raw look at himself, the album climbed to No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 and the US Top Country Albums charts. But no matter the fame or accolades, Wallen’s father, Tommy Wallen, insisted that the superstar was still the boy he helped raise.
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Given the appeal of fame, some artists struggle with the advantage that comes with such a rare commodity. Others completely lose themselves in the world of cameras, parties, and shows. Speak to any celebrity, and they know at least one person who completely imploded after gaining stardom.
But for Wallen, fame had little effect on the country singer. Discussing the silent moments with his son, Tommy recalled his son’s record-breaking concert at Hyde Park in 2024. Although a historic night for Wallen, Tommy explained how his son took the time to pick up trash at a party. “Instead of joining the others and going to the party right away, Morgan took a moment, knelt down, and started picking up trash—and that made me smile.”
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Morgan Wallen’s Father “Proud” Of Who He Became
With actions speaking louder than words, Tommy knew that no matter what life threw at Wallen, he would come out on the other side. “My son has become a man, far from the boy I used to hear strumming songs in our garage on my grandfather’s hand-me-down guitar, but he hasn’t lost his way.”
As for those obstacles Wallen found himself facing, Tommy didn’t try to hide his son’s past. “It takes a lot to admit that you might be one of those problems. I know because, at a tougher time in my life, I had to say the same thing to myself.” He added later, “I’m proud that Morgan has had problems in his life. If he didn’t, he wouldn’t be the man he is today. But I’m even more proud of what he’s done with them.”
Before standing at the top of country music, Wallen hoped to have a career in baseball. But that dream abruptly ended after an injury. When trying to break into music, he once again stumbled when he was eliminated on The Voice.
But no matter the setback or hurdle, Wallen continued moving forward, guided by the values instilled in him long before fame ever found him.
(Photo by Brian Friedman/Billboard/Penske Media via Getty Images)
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