In a delightful turn of events, country music stars Mitchell Tenpenny and Meghan Patrick are preparing to welcome their first child this autumn. This significant milestone follows years of trying to conceive, and the couple recently shared the joyous news of expecting a baby girl with their fans on social media. Amidst a flurry of musical activity, both artists are balancing their burgeoning careers with the anticipation of parenthood.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Mitchell-Tenpenney-Meghan-Patrick-the-58th-annual-CMA-Awards-011326-tout-4269d75a217c47e39334950346f5f068.jpg)
Mitchell Tenpenny, known for chart-topping hits like “Drunk Me” and “Truth About You,” has embraced this new chapter in his life with an open heart. Speaking exclusively to *People*, the 36-year-old musician reflected on the couple’s journey towards starting a family. “We’ve been trying for years, and it just wasn’t happening,” he shared. The couple had begun to come to terms with the idea that parenthood may not be on the horizon for them. However, Tenpenny humourously recalled how life often has its own timing: “As soon as we settled into that, God said, ‘Hold my beer.’”
The announcement of their pregnancy was made just a few months after a pivotal moment for Patrick, who discovered her pregnancy on New Year’s Day. A simple breakfast of biscuits and gravy led to a heartfelt prayer that she offered, thanking the universe for her husband and the father he would soon become. Tenpenny described his emotional reaction as overwhelming: “I’ve never felt this feeling in my entire life. It wasn’t anxiety, it wasn’t fear. It was just this raw… I couldn’t be happier and more excited.”
In addition to their personal news, both artists are deeply immersed in their professional undertakings. Meghan Patrick has recently been on her own headline tour, while Tenpenny released a poignant new track titled “Speed of Light.” This song, which encapsulates his feelings about love and commitment, carries added significance now that he and Patrick are embarking on their journey into parenthood.
Originally titled “Speed of Life,” the song evolved into a tribute to the desire to be present for loved ones. Tenpenny collaborated with fellow artist Teddy Swims, who contributed to the songwriting process. “It’s hard not to get inspired when you’re writing with Teddy,” Tenpenny remarked, highlighting how the collaboration brought out the best in his performance. The result is a song that he describes as one of the most beautifully delivered of his career.
Recording “Speed of Light” involved intense dedication, as Tenpenny aimed to push his vocal limits to capture the song’s emotional depth. He shared that he worked tirelessly in the studio, knowing that he would need vocal rest afterwards. The song culminates in a breathtaking final note, which Tenpenny playfully acknowledged he wouldn’t attempt to replicate during live performances. “That last note is for the record only,” he stated, setting the bar high while maintaining a sense of humility.
The accompanying music video for “Speed of Light” features Tenpenny performing at a piano in the middle of the street, an artistic vision realised with the help of the mayor of Gallatin, Tennessee, who graciously closed off the road for filming. This project represents a symbolic moment for Tenpenny, who finds it hard to believe how many of his dreams are coming to fruition at this stage of life.
As they navigate the complexities of impending parenthood along with demanding music careers, Tenpenny expressed optimism about the future. He acknowledged that the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, recounting Meghan’s “tough” first trimester, but he remains resolute in their approach. “We’re not slowing down. We’re going to figure it out,” he remarked, alongside a sense of peace through prayer.
Tenpenny is enthusiastic about the potential for their upcoming experiences to influence his music. As they prepare for their new roles as parents, he looks ahead with excitement, believing it will shape their artistry in ways yet unseen. With their hearts set on embracing this new chapter, the couple’s journey toward parenthood is not just a change in their personal lives but also a wellspring of inspiration for their future creative endeavours.