MITCHELL, S.D. – Country music star Cole Swindell is set to headline the Corn Palace Festival on Saturday night, bringing a mix of his biggest hits and new music to Mitchell.
Swindell, who spoke with KORN Country 92.1 ahead of the show, said becoming a father has been one of the biggest changes in his life over the past year.
Swindell and his wife recently welcomed their first child, a daughter. He said fatherhood has been hectic but life-changing.
“It’s been life-changing, but it’s been amazing,” Swindell said.
Swindell’s new single, “Girl Dad,” is a deeply personal song that serves as a letter to his late father. Swindell said the song is a 10-year update to his 2015 hit “You Should Be Here,” which was written about losing his father.
The singer said “Girl Dad” reflects how much life can change, even after experiencing difficult times.
Another new song, “Bronco,” is rooted in a family memory. Swindell said his father owned a brown-and-white 1980 Ford Bronco when he was growing up, and he had long hoped to find the vehicle and restore it.
After writing the song, Swindell’s brothers eventually tracked down their father’s Bronco, which had been sitting for years in the pine trees in Georgia.
The vehicle needs extensive restoration, but Swindell said having it back in the family is one of the coolest stories he has been part of.
“It’s part of me,” Swindell said of the Bronco.
Swindell also reflected on his career, which began with early hits such as “Chillin’ It” and “Hope You Get Lonely Tonight.” He said songwriting and having other artists record his songs helped get his name in front of record labels before he launched his own career.
He said the country music audience and country radio have allowed him to grow throughout his career.
Swindell said he enjoys seeing more traditional country music gain popularity, but believes there is room for different sounds within the genre.
“Just listen to what you like,” he said.
Swindell also discussed his growing sports card collection and his love of NASCAR. He said he returned to collecting cards about a year ago and has enjoyed reconnecting with something that made him feel like a kid again.
Swindell will perform at the Corn Palace at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.
