Country music star Thomas Rhett recently lifted the veil on the inspiration behind the name of his newborn son, Brave Elijah. In a conversation with PEOPLE, Rhett, who is preparing for his forthcoming Soundtrack to Life tour, addressed a common misconception surrounding his son’s name, which has generated some confusion among fans and the media alike.
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Brave Elijah, welcomed into the world by Rhett and his wife Lauren Akins in February, has often been mischaracterised as being named after a bottle of wine. This has prompted Rhett to clarify the origins of the name, which he insists is not linked to the wine label Mt. Brave, despite the coincidental connection.
“I’ve seen many articles online stating that ‘Thomas Rhett names his son after a bottle of wine,'” Rhett expressed during the interview. “That really frustrates me because that’s not the case. It was more that the name Brave resonated with me when I came across it on that bottle.” He emphasised that it was more about the qualities associated with bravery that attracted him and his wife to the name.
The couple, who tied the knot in 2012, are also the proud parents of four daughters: Willa Gray, 10; Ada James, 8; Lennon Love, 6; and Lillie Carolina, 4. Rhett found that choosing the name Brave felt increasingly significant as he and Akins discussed it more. “Once we began saying things like, ‘Oh, little Brave, Brave boy,’ it started feeling like such a strong fit for him,” he added.
In addition to the family’s new addition, Rhett shared insights on how fatherhood has evolved with the arrival of his son. “Life has definitely started to feel different since he was born,” he remarked, noting that Brave is nearing three months old and beginning to show his personality. “He’s starting to look like me and is making all sorts of facial expressions. He has opinions about how he likes to be held and what kind of bottle he is fed.”
Rhett, who has often been celebrated for his close relationship with his daughters, expressed excitement about raising a son. “Becoming a boy dad has me super juiced up for the future,” he said. “Many of my friends have sons, and it’s just a different dynamic. My girls are incredibly sweet, but boys certainly have a different kind of energy. I look forward to the adventures ahead and feel immensely blessed.”
The singer also reflected on the surreal feeling of having a large family. “I can hardly believe we have five kids. Here we are!” he exclaimed, clearly filled with pride.
In a joyful Instagram announcement made back in February, Rhett had shared the news of Brave’s birth with fans, posting a series of tender moments capturing his wife’s labour journey. Included among the images were those showing Rhett supporting Akins during delivery and the serene moment shortly after Brave’s arrival.
The heartfelt caption read, “Welcome to the world, Brave 🩵💚🩵,” accompanied by a glimpse into their first days as a family of seven. “Our hearts are just in a big ole puddle with this precious baby BOY,” the couple expressed. They noted how Brave was born nearly two weeks early and weighed close to 10 pounds, showcasing their relief that he arrived safely.
Akins took the opportunity in her post to highlight Rhett’s dedication during the birthing experience. “He was my biggest champion in labour and delivery,” she noted, sharing how Rhett was first to announce their son’s arrival in a mix of excitement and disbelief.
Concluding with an expression of gratitude, Akins stated, “We are so grateful God chose us to have YOU, cutie pie. Your four sisters are smitten, and we are completely over the moon in love with you, big Brave boy.”
As Thomas Rhett prepares for his upcoming tour, it is clear that his family remains at the heart of everything he does, with the birth of Brave Elijah marking a joyful new chapter in their lives.