Sammy Kershaw, best known for his chart-topping 1993 hit “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” is facing a hefty fine after accidentally bringing a loaded handgun through airport security.
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According to a news release from Absolute Publicity, the former Louisiana lieutenant governor candidate was on his way to a show May 28 when Lafayette airport security stopped him. The TSA had flagged his bag after finding a wayward firearm, and the FBI even got in on the action.
A sheepish Kershaw offered an innocent explanation for the offense. “It was early, I was half-awake and clearly not thinking straight,” said the “Cadillac Style” crooner, 67. “I’ve sang songs about heartbreak and hard times, but not forgetting to check my carry-on for a loaded firearm. That’s a new one!”
Sammy Kershaw Offers “Friendly PSA:” “Check Your Bags… Twice”
Sammy Kershaw could have faced jail time and fines in excess of $10,000 for what he said was a simple oversight. As it is, he must now pay $5,000. However, the CMA-nominated artist has vowed to be more careful going forward.
“I guess it’s safe to say I won’t be packing heat at my next show,” Kershaw said. “Let this be your friendly PSA: check your bags, check ’em twice. Let’s all stay safe out there.”
According to his website, Kershaw is next slated to perform at Lee Creek Tavern in Roland, Oklahoma, on Friday, June 27.
The country star received his first guitar from his grandfather at age 11. His father died that same year, and Kershaw began playing roadhouses at night to help support his family.
“I wanted to be like Merle Haggard and George Jones,” Kershaw said in 2016.
Indeed, he met Possum himself at age 14, eventually opening for both Jones and Haggard. Kershaw would even go on to record a duet with Jones, “Never Bit a Bullet Like This,” which first appeared on Jones’ 1993 studio album High-Tech Redneck.
Years later, Kershaw recorded a haunting rendition of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” for 2014’s Do You Know Me: A Tribute to George Jones.
Aside from music, the “National Working Woman’s Holiday” crooner also made two unsuccessful bids for lieutenant governor of Louisiana.
Featured image by s_bukley/Shutterstock
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