About Keith Urban

A triple threat as a singer, songwriter and guitar player, Keith Urban is one of the most talented artists in any genre of music, and definitely one of the nicest, too. With his laid back charm, enviable rock star hair and ever-present smile, the affable father of two and beloved husband of Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, has become one of country music most consistent hit-makers.

Born October 26, 1967 in Whangarei, New Zealand, Keith learned to play guitar early and began performing on local festivals, TV shows and talent competitions. He signed with EMI in Australia and released a self-titled debut album in 1990, which earned a 1991 ARIA Award nomination for Best Country Album.

The following year, he moved to Nashville and began working as a session guitarist and getting songs recorded as a songwriter. In 1997, he formed a band called the Ranch, which released a debut album on Capitol Records Nashville and charted two singles.

In 1999, he released his self-titled debut album as a solo artist and his career began gaining momentum with such hit singles as “Your Everything,” “Where the Blacktop Ends” and “But for the Grace of God,” which became his very first No. 1. Thus began a streak of hits that has helped define country music during the last two decades, among them: “Somebody Like You,” “Raining on Sunday,” “Who Wouldn't Wanna Be Me,” “You’ll Think of Me,” “Tonight I Wanna Cry,” “Making Memories of Us,” “Better Life,” “Stupid Boy,” “Long Hot Summer,” “Cop Car,” “John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16,” “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and “The Fighter,” the latter a duet with Carrie Underwood.

The Grammy Award winner has picked up dozens of other accolades over the years starting with the Academy of Country Music’s Top New Male Vocalist and the Country Music Association’s Horizon Award, both in 2001. In addition to his busy recording and touring schedule, Keith has also spent time as a judge on “American Idol,” where he impressed fans and encouraged contestants with his gentle but constructive critiques for four seasons.

A noted philanthropist, Keith has a line of signature guitars, with a portion of proceeds going to benefit the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation and the Grammy Foundation. He also supports the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum through the annual “All for the Hall” benefit concerts.

Though raised down under, Nashville obviously has a special place in his heart. Keith and his wife have a home in Music City, where they are raising their two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret.