“Well, I don’t deal with bitches no more…”

If you haven’t heard this song, there’s a chance that you have probably heard of it. This now infamous chorus from Mitchell Tenpenny’s song “Bitches” has had country music fans and online media outlets arguing whether the song’s lyrics are offensive or just downright catchy. Personally, we appreciate all styles (or sub-genres) of country music and the soulful melodies and honest lyrics this song brings to the table. Not to mention, this song introduced us to our newest Artist of the Month, Mitchell Tenpenny.

We have been following his career online and through social media over the last year and a half and are excited to watch this Nashville native take country music by storm. Keep reading to learn more about this rising country star and scroll down for our exclusive Q & A with him. Follow Mitchell Tenpenny on Instagram.

Growing up in Music City, Mitchell Tenpenny was no stranger to the music industry. His grandmother, Donna Hilley, began her career in radio and later transitioned into publishing, where she earned the coveted role as CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing. Her successful career inspired Mitchell to become a songwriter. Prior to releasing music as an artist, Mitchell spent time writing songs. He even experienced songwriting success by co-writing Granger Smith’s “If the Boot Fits” that rose to #5 on the country charts.

His brand new single, “Drunk Me,” from his self-titled EP showcases the raw talent of his powerful voice and is already winning over country music fans. According to his official website, “‘Drunk Me’ made streaming chart history by achieving the highest entry ever for a new artist on Nielsen’s On Demand Audio Core Country Streaming chart. The single achieved #39 following an increase of 249% for a total of 1.5 million streams [in the first week].” Now, this song is on its way to being a smash hit for Tenpenny with more than 15 million spins on Spotify alone.

The 10 Penny Fund

Best of all, Mitchell Tenpenny is making a generous effort to give back. In June, he launched the 10 Penny Fund in an effort to bring awareness and funding to cancer and mental illness. The money raised through his foundation provides resources and programs to help motivate patients, encourage healing, and build a community of support. Learn more about the 10 Penny Fund and donate today.

View Mitchell Tenpenny tour dates.

Q & A | Mitchell Tenpenny

CC | If you weren’t a country music artist, what would you be?
M10 | I would be playing football or coaching somewhere. Sports has always been a huge part of my life. So, it would be something involving sports.

CC | Do you still go to shows as a fan?
M10 | I do still go to shows as a fan and I always will! I love music more than anything it’s inspiring and refreshing!

CC | What’s your favorite type of music?
M10 | I don’t have a favorite type of music I listen to everything from hardcore screaming to pop ballads. I love everything.

CC | If you could work with any current artist, who would it be?
M10 | John Mayer

CC | Can you tell us a little bit about your creative process in writing songs?
M10 | I just like to start with a chord progression that inspires a melody. I’ll start singing random words over until I get a melody I like then I’ll start to write the song about whatever subject or title we chose that day.

CC | Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?
M10 | Michael Jackson, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder, *NSYNC, Brooks and Dunn, Allen Stone, Maria Carey, Underoath

CC | Do you have any pre-show superstitions?
M10 | Tequila shot

CC | How do you keep your voice in tip-top shape?
M10 | It’s hard honestly and gets tired especially when multiple shows and travel make you lose it. But the key is water and not drinking as much alcohol. Also after the show, I “warm down” and don’t talk for the rest of the night. It sucks but it’s what you have to do. And still then, it’s not always tip top. Nothing works better than rest.