Born on June 8, 1978, in Jackson, Kentucky, Sturgill Simpson’s full name is John Sturgill Simpson. He grew up in a household influenced by the working-class ethos, with his father serving as a Kentucky State Police Trooper and his mother working as a secretary. The family dynamic changed significantly when his parents divorced during his seventh-grade year. Simpson attended Woodford County High School, where he experienced a brief period of selling and consuming drugs. This phase, however, did not define his future.
After graduating high school, Simpson made a significant life choice by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served for three years, which provided him with discipline and structure, shaping his character and future endeavors.
Musical Beginnings
Sturgill Simpson’s passion for music led him to form the country/rock band ‘Sunday Valley’ in 2004. The band quickly made a name for itself, performing at the Pickathon Festival in Portland, Oregon. Despite their growing popularity, Simpson chose to pursue a career at the Union Pacific Railroad’s freight-shipping yard in Salt Lake City. However, his love for music eventually drew him back to the band, where he served as the lead vocalist and guitarist.
Sunday Valley enjoyed success performing at local gigs and tours, but the band disbanded in 2012. Simpson then embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album “High Top Mountain” in 2013, produced by Dave Cobb. The album featured 12 tracks, including the popular “Life Ain’t Fair and the World is Mean,” and peaked at number 11 on the US Heatseekers Albums (Billboard) list.
Rise to Stardom
In 2016, Simpson released his critically acclaimed album “A Sailor’s Guide to Earth,” followed by “Sound & Fury” in 2019. His unique style and honest storytelling earned him a dedicated fanbase and numerous accolades. He was nominated for three Grammy Awards and won two, including Album of the Year and Best Country Album. Additionally, he received the 2015 Song of the Year award from The Americana Music Honors & Awards and won the Album of the Year for “A Sailor’s Guide to Earth” at the American Music Awards in 2017.
Acting Career
Sturgill Simpson’s talents extend beyond music; he has also made a mark in the acting world. He debuted in the indie film “Orca Park” in 2011 and had a cameo role in the short film “Black Hog Gut” in 2018. Simpson’s television career includes a role in CBS’s series “One Dollar,” where he portrayed Ken Fry. His filmography also includes roles in “The Dead Don’t Die” (2019), “Queen & Slim” (2019), “The Hunt” (2020), and “Materna” (2020). Simpson is set to appear in the upcoming crime film “Killers of the Flower Moon,” where he will play Henry Grammer.
Personal Life
Sturgill Simpson’s personal life is as fulfilling as his professional one. He is married to Sarah Simpson, whom he met in Lexington. The couple tied the knot in 2010 and are blessed with three children. The family currently resides in Southeast Tennessee, where Simpson enjoys a peaceful and private life away from the limelight.
Physical Attributes and Social Media Presence
Standing at a height of 5 feet 10 inches and weighing around 73 kg, Sturgill Simpson has a commanding presence. His blue eyes and brown hair complement his charismatic personality. Despite his fame, Simpson maintains a relatively low profile on social media. He is active on Instagram under the username @sturgbase, with over 2.6k followers, and has nearly 406 followers on Facebook. His self-titled YouTube channel boasts more than 191k subscribers.
Trivia and Recognitions
Sturgill Simpson has been recognized for his contributions to music and culture. He was listed in the 18th position on Rolling Stone’s “50 Best Albums of 2014” and named among “NPR’s 50 Favorite Albums of 2014.” In 2018, he was honored as a Kentucky Colonel at the Kentucky State Capitol. Additionally, Simpson is a trained horseback rider, adding another facet to his diverse interests.
Conclusion
Sturgill Simpson’s journey from a small-town boy to a renowned musician and actor is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and dedication. His music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, while his acting career adds another layer to his multifaceted persona. With upcoming projects and ongoing musical endeavors, Simpson’s star is sure to shine even brighter in the years to come.
