Charlie Starr

Charlie Starr, born in Lanett, Alabama, comes from a musical family, with his grandfather in a Gospel band, his grandmother playing mandolin and piano, and his father, an accomplished guitarist, introducing him to the instrument. This early exposure fostered a deep passion for guitar playing, songwriting, and singing, which ultimately led to his successful career in music. He is best known as the lead vocalist and lead guitarist for the American country rock band Blackberry Smoke, which he co-founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2001.

Under Starr’s leadership, Blackberry Smoke has achieved significant milestones in the music industry. The band released their debut album, “Bad Luck Ain’t No Crime,” in 2003, followed by “Little Piece of Dixie” in 2009. Their 2012 album, “The Whippoorwill,” marked their first chart success, reaching the Top 40 on the Billboard 200. In 2015, Blackberry Smoke became the first independent band to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart with “Holding All the Roses,” a feat they repeated in 2016 with “Like an Arrow.” Their 2021 album, “You Hear Georgia,” also debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Americana/Folk Albums chart. The band’s consistent chart success and loyal fanbase have solidified their position in the rock and country music landscape.

Throughout his career, Starr has performed extensively across the United States, Europe, Australia, and South America, sharing stages with notable artists such as Tedeschi Trucks Band, Guns N’ Roses, Zac Brown Band, ZZ Top, Eric Church, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. His guitar prowess has also earned him individual recognition, including being named one of Music Radar’s top 23 guitarists in December 2017. Most recently, Starr co-wrote and released Blackberry Smoke’s new album, “Be Right Here,” in 2024, continuing to contribute to the band’s expansive rock ‘n’ roll sound.