From high school ag classes and FFA activities to a national tour with some of country music’s biggest stars, what a difference a year can make 

Just one year ago, if someone had told Alex Miller of the big life changes that were about to come his way, he might not have believed it. At the time, he was in the midst of his senior year of high school, active in his FFA chapter, and busy on the family farm.

But this Garrard County native was also about to embark on a musical journey that would take him to the stage of the iconic television show, American Idol.   

“About this time last year, I had a discussion with my mom about what I was going to do after high school, and we kind of got a little emotional about it,” he said. “I told her I wanted to do music, but she thought it was probably best if I went to college."

Miller admitted that college was not something he felt was in his future, but music definitely was. It was actually his mom who signed him up for the 19^th season of American Idol, which aired in the spring of 2021.

“It really wasn't something I had planned to do, but sure enough it happened, and it was kind of interesting getting through the judging process. I had to audition for producers first,” he said. “But when I got in front of those judges, it was just like a light bulb came on, I guess you could say. It was definitely something that was very, very special.”

The judges took to Miller right away, especially country music star Luke Bryan, who has become somewhat of a mentor to the aspiring music sensation. And while he didn’t make it to the finale, his time on the show opened a door of new opportunities for Miller that he quickly walked through.  

The influence from the farm

Miller has an enormous amount of talent that has guided him along the way, and while music has always been a part of his life, he credits growing up on the farm and being involved in FFA with the creation of the solid foundation that he depends on daily.

“My first word was ‘tractor,’ so farming has always been a part of my life,” he said.

Working on the family farm taught Miller his solid worth ethic, something that has been a big advantage for him at this point in his life.

“My granddaddy taught me to work hard, keep a good attitude about things, and never get discouraged, because there's always rough days on the farm and there are rough days no matter what you're doing,” Miller said. “I've come to know that and respect that.”

He pointed out that this philosophy can be advantageous in his new-found career.

“The music business isn’t any different. There are up days and down days, but the work ethic I learned on the farm is certainly helping me now,” Miller said. “You’ve got to take every opportunity when it comes to farming, always trying something new. And music is all about doing things differently; doing things your own way while suiting your audience.”

On his way to stardom

One of those audiences for him was thousands of FFA members during the concert at this year’s National FFA Convention. Just two years ago, Miller was competing at the convention as a member of the Garrard County FFA, never dreaming he’d be on that big stage performing at the event.

“I opened for Brett Young at the National FFA concert this year and it was a full-circle moment for me,” he said. “You know, FFA did so much for me. Don’t get me wrong, I have always been a big talker, but it gave me some very, very, valuable speaking and people skills, and it also contributed to my good work ethic.”

Miller has been touring the country and even signed an exclusive recording contract with Nashville-based Billy Jam Records in September. He said while American Idol can help from a career perspective, it doesn’t necessarily make you a star.

“What I had to do after American Idol was put a team together,” Miller said. “I needed people to promote me, and I needed a manager, so I went about trying to find people to do that. I found a good manager and a good publicist and a good tour manager and a great band, as well.”

Traditional country

All those things led to Miller becoming a rising star as a traditional country music artist. He recently released his first single with his new record label and is looking forward to a full album release in early 2022.

According to his publicist’s website, “So Much Moore Media,” Miller has already taken the stage at the historic Ryman Auditorium; performed at multiple high-profile state fairs (Kentucky, Missouri, New York, Wisconsin, Washington); and opened for Hank Williams Jr., Josh Turner, Lee Brice, Rhonda Vincent and Shenandoah. He was also named Texas Roadhouse Artist of the Month for October 2021 and recently performed a duet with Rhonda Vincent at the Lee Greenwood All-Star Salute.

His first single, “Don’t Let The Barn Door Hit Ya,” is a classic Western Swing tune produced by Nashville music veteran and Billy Jam Records A&R/Creative Director, Jerry Salley.

“It’s just a great showcase song for Alex,” he said. “It gives him a chance to shine at what he does best – traditional Country – and it is a real reflection of the true artistry this young, refreshing talent brings to the table. We are thrilled to have Alex at Billy Jam.”

Miller also recently released his first Christmas song entitled, ““That’s What Christmas Is For.”

“I’ve been a sucker for catchy holiday tunes since I first watched the movie Elf,” Alex admits. “I really liked the feel of this one – and all the memories of past Christmases it called up for me.”

While Miller is excited about traveling the country and doing what he loves the most, his roots will always keep him grounded. After a busy November and December on the road, he plans to spend this Christmas at his Dad's house with his Grandparents and brother Parker.

“The stage is my home and I love performing and playing for folks; it's like a kid at Christmas for me up there on that stage,” he said. “But I still go out to the farm every now and then. I can't ever get too big to go out and help on the farm.”

For more information about Alex, go to https://alexmillercountry.com. A special “thanks” goes out to Martha Moore and so much Moore media, for all her help with this story.