Matt Case - Feb. 22nd, 2025 - 1:12pm PST 

 

10 COUNTRY STARS WHO TURNED THEIR LIVES AROUND AFTER GETTING SOBER

Country music has long been intertwined with drinking culture, and many of its biggest stars have struggled with alcohol and substance abuse. For some, sobriety was a necessary step to save their careers, health, or families. These ten artists made the decision to get sober and have since found renewed success and fulfillment.

1. Keith Urban

After multiple rehab stints, Keith Urban finally got sober in 2006 with the support of his wife, Nicole Kidman. Now one of country music’s biggest advocates for sobriety, he mentors others on their recovery journeys.

2. Tim McGraw

McGraw’s drinking spiraled despite his success. In 2008, he quit alcohol for good, fearing he’d lose his wife, Faith Hill, and their children. Since then, he’s embraced a healthy, disciplined lifestyle.

3. Trace Adkins

Adkins’ battle with alcohol led to a near-fatal shooting by his second wife. Though he relapsed in 2014, he has remained sober in recent years, crediting his fourth wife, Victoria Pratt, with helping him stay on track.

4. Brantley Gilbert

Gilbert’s addiction nearly cost him his career and personal relationships. Encouraged by Keith Urban, he got sober and turned his life around, now thriving as a husband, father, and country star.

5. Joe Don Rooney

A 2021 DUI forced the Rascal Flatts guitarist to face his addiction. Now sober, he is back on tour with the band for the first time in years.

6. Walker Hayes

Once an “alcoholic atheist,” Hayes’ sobriety journey coincided with his religious transformation. Since quitting drinking, he’s found massive success with Fancy Like and shares his story to inspire others.

7. Charles Kelley

The Lady A singer sought help in 2022 after realizing his drinking was jeopardizing his marriage. His bandmates postponed a tour to support him, and he now actively promotes sober living.

8. Jo Dee Messina

Messina hit rock bottom after forgetting lyrics onstage while intoxicated. Her manager’s ultimatum led her to rehab, and she has stayed sober ever since.

9. Jason Isbell

Isbell’s addiction was well-documented in his songwriting. Since achieving sobriety, he’s created some of his most critically acclaimed work and celebrated 10 years sober in 2022.

10. Ashley McBryde

McBryde quietly got sober in 2022 but waited a year before discussing it publicly. Now, she’s an outspoken advocate for sobriety.

A Turning Point for Many

For these artists, getting sober was a life-changing decision that not only saved their careers but also improved their personal lives. Their stories serve as reminders that recovery is possible—and that success often follows those who take control of their futures.