Music has always played a big role in the life, and even career, of Michael Phelps. The swimming legend loves his tunes, that’s for sure. In fact, he listened to Eminem and EDM right before his competitions throughout his career. According to the 23-time Olympic gold medalist, he did it to get into his own little world and achieve the laser focus that helped him become the most decorated Olympics icon in swimming. While Hip-Hop and Techno have always been his go-to genres, he recently changed gears and shifted to country music.
He joined an up-and-coming country singer and songwriter for a rager. Ernest Keith Smith, known as Ernest in the music world, is a Nashville resident who is making waves in the country music genre. He conducted a concert in Arizona and Michael Phelps was in attendance. The singer and the swimming legend also shared a special moment, which both displayed on their social media.
Michael Phelps out to dominate a country music concert
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Ernest has been on a music tour lately, with other artists such as Morgan Wallen, HARDY, and Bailey Zimmerman. Yesterday, Ernest played at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. After his second and final retirement from swimming, Phelps purchased an enormous mansion worth $2.53 million in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Hence, Phelps was also in attendance at the concert. The platinum-certified country musician, Ernest, shared a photo with the legend.
While sharing the post, Ernest wrote, “It’s not cold in Arizona, that’s for sure…. Also shoutout @m_phelps00”. Michael Phelps shared the post on his Instagram stories as well. Phelps was seen holding a big red rose as both the men smiled at each other and embraced. In his stories, Phelps wrote, “My guy! What a night”. It definitely seems like both of them had fun at the concert. Mrs. Nicole Phelps was also in attendance at the concert with her husband. He also shared a picture of both of them embracing as they belted out some Ernest lyrics.
Although, one thing must be said. While there is no doubt that country music can be hardcore as well, it still comes as a surprising choice for Michael Phelps. In an interview with NBC, the all-time Olympic gold medals record holder once revealed that he listened to artists such as Skrillex, Steve Aoki, and Eminem before hitting the water and making history. Nonetheless, the iconic swimmer seemed to enjoy himself thoroughly during the Ernest concert. This is not the first time he has had special moments at concerts.
Swimmer and musician all rolled into one
In 2022, Michael Phelps joined American country singer and songwriter Morgan Wallen at one of his concerts. It seems like country music can be added to Phelps’ top genres after all. But then, the Olympian is somewhat of an artist himself. He has been known to belt out Eminem flawlessly. In 2002, the iconic song ‘Lose Yourself ‘ was released along with the movie 8 Mile. The movie, as well as the songs, took the world by storm. Michael Phelps was also clearly swept off his feet.
Almost 2 decades later, at the 2020 Oscars, Michael Phelps performed the song ‘Lose Yourself’ in front of everyone. And he was so good, the audience couldn’t help but vibe along with him. The same song was also the swimmer’s song of choice when he appeared at the famous ‘Lip Sync Battle’. Though he might not be a musician by profession, Phelps’ passion for music was clearly showcased in all these instances, including when he took the Ernest concert by storm.
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