Adam Calhoun Talks Getting Into Music, Upchurch, Jelly Roll, Tom MacDonald, Final Rap Album & More 

I never knew how much Adam went through when I was a kid seeing him at the bus stop every day. But when you're a kid you don't think about people like that. I had it rough in a different way, but kids back then really didn't talk about the stuff that we had to go through so none of us really knew. Even with close friends, we really didn't talk about that stuff into our late teens (at least that's my experience with how we were raised). I didn't have it tough compared to a lot of people but I never had anything handed to me, and I am actually really grateful for that because everything I got, from my first car to my first house, I worked hard for and paid for 100% myself. When kids in my neighborhood were getting gifted a $30k+ car when they turned 16, I didn't get my first car (which I paid 1k for) until I could afford one when I was 17, and then I learned how to fix what was wrong with it and pay out of pocket for the repairs. I don't regret one minute of it. Now I can fix anything that doesn't require a welder and that's only because I haven't bought a tig welder yet. I'm not a great welder but I can get by at this point but I plan on learning more. Adam's story moved me because I went to grade and high school with him and I see the drive he has, I got through life with that same drive and I really think that if more kids in this day and age were just exposed to other's with that drive who are a positive influence, that society would just be a better place. Never consider yourself a victim or have the attitude "woe is me" because you'll go farther if you are fueled by a yearning to make your life better instead of trying to place what disappointment you might have with life on others. Only YOU can change your life at that point, and if you really want it, work hard at it, and set realistic expectations, you'll get there with commitment, hard work, and being honest with yourself and not getting into shady stuff that has the promise of easy money. Adam will attest to that, I will as well. I've made the same mistake of thinking that easy money is good money. Believe me it isn't. Nothing easy in life (a majority of the time) is good for you, your soul, or your character.

Worm, Jelly, Struggle and Adam have been huge in my recovery, their music speaks to my soul🙏

“Do i sound depressed “ Someone who’s been through it. No matter how many time you tell your story especially one with struggles, you still sit there and pause. To me this is what makes him so relatable.

ADAM FOUND THE KEY NEVER. FORGET. WHERE. YOU. CAME. FROM. THOSE THAT DO WILL RETURN THERE

Would love to see this channel interview Tom and Nova

Adam Calhoun is one of my favorite rappers. I am sad that he is only doing one more rap album. But I respect his decision to do other music. I will always support Adam as he grows and changes 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Stoked to see it. Adam is one of the best rappers to ever bless a mic that, his insight and patriotism makes this better than prime time tv. Thanks y'all see y'all in Salt Lake

This was great. Adam seems like a great guy. He shows you everything you can do anything you want you just gotta work for it and never quit. My dream is to lift my ram truck. But being on disability makes it hard but I’m not gona stop dreaming and trying never quit.

I gotta say I was always a metal head most of my life. I heard some Tom, and through that I discovered all you guys. I am hooked now and I am so happy that I found y'all. Real true Americans who speak what I think and let people know that real Americans still exist.

Man I can relate to everything this man is saying on growing up in a household we’re u only had 1 parent and she was struggle. I grew up the same way eating the same shit. Cube steak rice a roni, pasta, Ramen noodles, or some days bread and butter. He’s the same age as me I’m 41 I’ll be 42 in Nov and I lived Vanilla Ice, Wutang Clan, Biggie, was another one of favorite artist. So many more. So it’s crazy to hear his upbringing bc I can so relate. He isn’t lying when he Inglewood CHICAGO is the baddest place it sure is!!

This was one of the best interviews I've ever watched the realness was profound. Great job guys.

Bro, you made rap great again through country rap. Keep it alive! I couldn't listen to rap for years and years until I discovered you, Church, Mesus, Struggle, Jelly, Justin, the list goes on!

Billy goat is one of my favorite albums. I'm old school rap (46yo). Really like all of A Cals music. Everyday in my office, "Alexa, play Adam Calhoun".

Awesome interview, absolute legit guy, honest, truthful, loyal, etc, everything a grown man should be. Forever a fan brother, keep kicking ass!!!!

I dont know Adam, but im 43 years old and damn i can relate to him!! only at the beginning of the video. FATHERS MATTER!!! KEEP GOOD FATHERS IN OUR HOMES.

Finally finished this one. I wasn't a big Adam Calhoun fan... but after watching this interview, he's one of those "how can you not support this guy" people. I'll be diving into his catalog moving forward. Thanks for this one, Chaddy!

I have been with Adam since you he was making them comedy videos I’m 43 and I look up to him my life is hard but Adam keeps me going he never quit no matter what. When I listen to him he gives me something to strive for I’m so broke and poor but I don’t quite even though I want to.

The Brave is the 1st album ive bought in over 20 yrs and honestly its been in my cd player in my truck ever since it dropped and even my 4yr old knows every word of it. Its my all time favorite album of all time. I cant for the life of me remember the names of half the songs my kids lost the case for it but track #15 is my favorite and #16 Back & Forth is bad ass

Bro, I'm glad you did this! I turn 42 Nov 30th and I've never been to prison but me and my group had membership cards to the county jail. I joined the military at 17 and always tried to be the good friend but like us in small town Tennessee, we always knew there has to be a better way! You found it and now that's inspiration to so many of us out here living low class while thinking high class!

Tom & Adam made one of the best albums ever!!!

This is your best interview yet, good work Chad. Adam is a real one, so much respect for that dude

Listening to Adam talk about how he got to where he is now REMINDS ME of the things I went through, what every one of us have or will go through. When you get to your Designated place you look around and go "wow" all the ups. all the downs. to understand that much like the Beatles said back in the 60s and 70s ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE THE LOVE OF A CHILD OR PARTNER OR FAMILY THAT IS WHY AS AMERICANS WE MUST STAND AND PUSH BACK. PROTECT WHAT WE LOVE.....GOD FAMILY AND COUNTRY

My dad had an awful childhood which ended in his early teens with him leaving home, lying on a job application, and working in furniture factories. My childhood consisted of church on Sunday, working with my dad and brother after school on our little farmland we had, wonderful holidays, a mom who would die or kill for us, and a lot of great memories. It wasn't all roses. But when I think about what my two parents from broken homes came from.. I thank God over and over.

Man I love this interview so much for so many different reasons Adam is a very talented musician and an amazing person and a great example of what a patriot is I relate to him so much especially because of the hard work ethic, fortunately for me my dad was around and he has always instilled in me hard work ethic and that's what I want to instill in my kids as well nothing in this life is given you've got to get up everyday go out there bust your ass and earn it I'm 26 years old I look up to people like my father and Adam we need more people like them we have to have more people like them around for this generation coming up to show them what a true American is this is the land of the free and the home of the brave and nobody will take that away from us! Thank you for doing this interview Chad, Kansas Rebel Man Reacts is how I found out about your channel and this upcoming interview and I'm so glad I did this is so inspiring!

Probably one of the best full albums that I have seen in my whole life. Every track was a banger. Geez, I didn't know he grew up near me. Harlan County baby. Growing up was rough, but anyone from the area is grateful if they made it out of there.

I've been saying that over year now Upchurch Adam and Tom album would do crazy numbers. We say the numbers for the brave.

The story is amazing. Love the attitude of no hard just life. A-Cal seems to be a genuine cat. Continued success.

I don't always agree with Adam but he has earned my respect over the years.

It really is funny how everyone sees life through a different perspective. Here is ACAL, a dude that so many imitate and want to be like, and he can't stand to be himself due to the pressure. Lesson is: live your life and affect what you can and take care of and love those close to you and good things will happen for you!

The Goat has spoken 💯🇺🇸. Adam Calhoun Sir you are the goat

Back in the 80’s - 90’s that’s how lower/middle class lived… that’s why we have grit, played outside, latch key kids, school clothes/play clothes good shoes play shoes etc., getting a job as a teen and buying ur own car … I’m so happy I lived thru this life… u fought, n loved each other n aren’t weak minded

I watched Adam from his start on Facebook but I gained alot respect for him watching Uncle Dubb's live videos a couple years ago when Adam invited him to his house.

So much respect!! Thanks for staying strong and giving us the jams! Zeppelin is my favorite band too! Keep making music and spreading your word! Chad you're awesome too bud!

Adam Calhoun is down to earth and has a relatable past. His hard work from his 9-5 has transferred to his music career and the work he puts in is one reason he is at the level he is. Looking forward to more content from him on Chad Armes TV!

Trust me when I say when you get to grow up in the hills of Kentucky you just know LIKE HE SAID.❤️💯🇺🇲

This is a great interview .. cheers to everyone involved

Didn’t know you were live right now so I was watching this in the bathtub lol I am on my 3rd copy of the brave now I’ve worn out the last couple

Been crazy watching jelly roll rise to the top. Found his music like 7 years ago. Strictly rap no singing. I've never seen a artist evolve and grow the way he has

The Brave was a super duper fire ass album

WOW!! Amazing freaking interview!!. Chaddy thank you so much! I hung onto every word that was spoken. I'm just a grandmother from Georgia but I've followed the whole Gang from the beginning with Jelly, Church, etc and I love hearing all the back stories. You are doing some real legendary sh*t and I'm here for it and shout out to Mel as well. 🤘♥️ #ChadArmesTv #AdamCalhoun #Rap #ContryRap

Adam’s a hell of a dude. U SLAYING the interviews. Chad Armes TV is 🚀🚀🚀

Got it on the big screen in the living room 🤙🏼

Ive yet to discover adams music. Ive seen some here and there but never really knew how i felt about it. Getting on that now

Hooligan is an awesome album

Great interview Chaddy! My wife and i for real anxiously wait for your next video regardless of what it is. Much love to yourself and A-CAL! #RIPWOMACK #IGSSTS

Much love Adam. Always had lots of respect for you.

I wonder how many people know that is 2019 Tom and struggle went on tour together

I've been waiting on this one for a while. Nothing but pure respect for this man and everything he's done.

Adam is so down to earth and real. I just love him! Talented artist and you can just tell he has a heart of solid gold- despite the obstacles he's faced in life. Much love from west KY 💗

Paused again: JUST WANTED TO SAY I LOVE HOW HE IS GRATEFUL FOR HIS HARD TIMES BC HE LEARNED FROM IT. IT TOOK ME A LITTLE WHILE TO TURN MOST THINGS INTO A LEARNED EXPERIENCE AND MAKE IT MORE OF A BLESSING THAN THE OTHER.. SRY.. LOVING THE INTERVIEW

I love this interview!!! I love watching peoples stories🙏🤘🏻💯

Adam is such a genuine guy ❤

Grew up with my grandad Big James on Cliff Ave on the hill. Much respect Mr Calhoun.

Ain’t nobody sleeping on Tom Tom is crushing it solo

I have the upmost respect for Adam. Dude is so humble and down to earth. Watching this was like chilling with a friend just shooting the shit.

I'm 47 and yes I owned a vanilla ice cassette 😂😂😂😂 much love and appreciation from Kentucky ❤️🙏❤️

Adam, this right here is straight up honesty!!!! When you say “my brothers and I had to share a shower till HS because my Mom had to still take a shower and get to work!” THAT….THAT RIGHT THERE is straight up how we had to live, in a trailer w 9 of us and we weren’t ever poor because we were rich, and I mean filthy rich, with love and admiration of what hard work really was!!!! And I STILL admire everything my Mom and Dad instilled in me, working dark till dark 7 days per week just so we had shoes on our feet and clothes on our backs!!! Dad passed unexpectedly when I was 17 and I miss him beyond belief but I see him every day in me and my two boys! Miss ya Pops!!!!! Thanks Adam….we love you homie and everything you stand for. I might have a voice as loud as yours but the spirit for family and hard work and ethics, we are cut from the same cloth.

Love A cal. Real ass dude. Great job chad. 🔥🔥🔥🔥interview

Billy Goat has always been my favorite album..it's always playing start to finish at the gym, Hooligan after that

I just adore Adam!❤️🇺🇸

Billy goat is my favorite Calhoun album to this day.

Everyone needs a friend like Adam

This was EXCELLENT, Chad this is the kind of content I wanna see on the internet. You do the interviews with people i actually want to hear from. Adam you're a legend brother, thanks for telling your story. I really enjoyed hearing all about it. Me and my family have been watching you from the very start with the first viral video. You're an awesome dude and amazing rapper!! We love you bubba...

Acal is my hero

Had the pleasure of meeting Adam, Demun, Brodnax, Dusty, and Chad at their show in Evansville, IN. All of them respectful and down to earth. It’s was a BLAST! RESPECT!

I just planned on watching a bit of it, here and there, but I ended up watching the whole thing. In ONE sitting! Great Interview!

I started going to jail at 19 years old in and out constantly hell they knew me by first name here in my small town jail I was there so much... Graham county hotel is what they called it lol.... Ended up fuckin up my probation when I was in my 20s and ended up in the Florence, AZ prison for a year... Too me a long time to grow up but my son, first child, changed my damn life... I was all fucked up on drugs too, I'm kicking ass now don't ever wanna look back my wife has helped me out so much in my growing the fuck up... I was a single child from a single mother and was raised with my mom in the picture but my grandparents were my parents though really... Wow... I relate to you... Fellow Adam... Lol love ya bro... Yours and Upchurch music got me thru a lot of struggles and fucked up shit! Ever since you guys first got banging on RU-vid since Upchurch vlogger days! Can't wait to hear the country music bro hellyeah SKIN lol

My mom's whole family is from hazard. I spent every summer till 17 in those hills bub. Much respect, very similar life. Grew up in Cincinnati Ohio. Spent summers in hazard.

I fucking love this I am learning a lot keep up the great work Adam much respect

Good stuff. OG John Wayne Ganges John is the man I he def one of my favorite rappers period. U can tell Adam gives respect where it’s due

This is soooooooo awesome! I appreciate you so much Chad Armes TV for giving us this exclusive, unique content!

You have accomplished so much Adam. I feel like You are just getting started to becoming the bad ass rapper you know you are. Independent is where it’s at! I have only supported Independent artist the last 7 yrs. I will never spend another penny on any main stream industry labels. As far as I’m concerned they are done. My favorite track on the Brave album is “The Story” God Bless I’m ready for your next album to drop!

This dope chad! Calhoun doesn’t live far from me.

This interview was so good! 🔥 homie thanks I enjoyed it

loved this - got onto church when he started releaing music which others locally saw his funny vids which cross polinated tehn got on to demun, adam. et al and onto jelly and struggle which resonated with me due to mistakes I made and now shout on the whole A-Game squad regardless - loving seeing the interviews and all that team winning at life. Tennessee hip hop is now a global brand and all the people promoting it are starting to get what they earned.

My favorite from the brave is back and forth

Bad ass Chad thank you for the interview of Adam Calhoun. Thank you for anything you upload bro. Respect!

Adam has not only made a great career for himself he has made himself some amazing friends along the way!

If all of y’all go on tour together I’m telling my boss “see ya in a few” and I’m buying an R. V. 😂

I was all about Lynyrd Skynyrd Black Sabbath dio and Deep Purple and then one day heard 2 Live Crew and NWA amazing I jam too it I'm 54 years old I still love too Live Crew

OH snap. Thats were my family is from too. My last name is Calhoun as well. I think me and Adam come from the same bloodline ;-) "CALHOUN!!!" WOOT!!! I knew I liked Adam for a reason other than he spits that fire. My grandparents were from the Kentucky / West Virginia area.

This 54 year old, hard working poor boy relate to Adam. I'm like 15 years sober , through God and tons of self inflicted crap. Jail. Yes. I'd give my left nut to work for ACAL. Love ya man. Man, going through parole. 2 years. Nobody would give me a chance. Then this one old man did. He passed but, even though currently l barely making bills. My wife lost her really good job in oil and gas. We are hurting. Adam, your story is so close to mine. Thank you for sharing. My drinking was bad. The not even coming home. Married my high school sweetheart, awesome son that is grown now...successful young man. I passed that marriage away. My son and my grandkids aren't in my life because of my sons hurt. I don't blame him. Yeh. I was the dad that was at all his baseball and football practices, games. He plays instruments like me. But l was a drunk. A pos, dad. It hurts everyday. My burden. Love ya Adam. You inspire me to keep going. I've pretty much quite on my dreams but. You help me go and work my old ass off, 6 days a week, usually 12 hr. Days. Hope it gets better. Oh man the BMX bikes were always at my house. Drinking out of hot garden hoses, that chemical taste. Best time to be a kid. 70s and 80s. Love ya man. No homo....BTW. FU Mike!!!

It’s nice to see you laugh Adam.. I know growing up poor and without food well…. It did the same for me.. pushed me to work hard to raise my 4 sons, work full time and go to Jr College to make more money for my sons… two of my sons are Iraq Veterans-82nd airborne-paratroopers/death from above and my other two sons own their own businesses and are trying to get their business built up.. I always told them never give up. Stay blessed Adam 💙

He is a real one!

Chad u r the one recording this history of music and these interviews will be the go to for info and facts for the rest of time about this moment in music history

Best tattoo story I have ever heard!

Flight jacket, doc marten 8hole boots& band shirts with a Walkman playing the Vanilla ice cassette tape!! It was my dirty little secret, now I see I was as cool as I thought I was!!! Thank God I was born in ‘80!!!

Great job on the interview….keep up the good work

Love Adan’s work- he keeps it so real and so relatable!

I can relate to adam by my dad dying of aids when I was 2 my mom raising me Ramon noodles balconies sandwich my step-dad that was abusive drunk me growing up fighting him and then my mom becoming gay and bringing random females were one tried to kill by cutting her brake lines and me now on my own working helping my mom deal with stage 4 ovarion cancer and now brain cancer its not ruff life its a hard life.

I just want to say this to Adam You should give yourself " props" you worked hard and you're great at what you do. Also good that you give the other artist props as well.

Adam those tough things you went through made you into the man you are! I went through the same type of situation , mother divorced , worked full-time to support me(only girl) and 4 brothers, we were very poor but especially in my pre-teen and teen years. My mother did the best she could under the circumstances. I can't say I'm glad that I went through that shit but it shaped me into the person I am today, and that I'm thankful for.

Cross roads is a banger

That album is gonna be fire !

Adam, brother my favorite album of yours is Pressure. I am 43 but you are a great artist IMO.

Hell yeah I just turned 43 but I listened to everything from too short, eric Clapton, skynard, George Jones, Hank Jr, and started writing at like 14 or 15 i could hear a beat in my head just couldn't make beats. Crazy stuff. Moving back and forth between Michigan and Tennessee until finally staying in TN.

Hey I had the Vanilla Ice cassette tape and the MC Hammer tape! Also had Domino and Warren G lol! Born in 82 buddyñ Adam Calhoun you still the GOAT buddy! Been listening to you since I heard you with Upchurch! Creek Squad! 💯

One of my favorite is back n' forth and die tonight with Ryan Upchurch. I don't think there is one of Adam's that I haven't liked. I bet you are a big teddy bear!!!! #ACalhoun

Such an inspiration! Much love!

(Pressure) hands down is Adam Calhoun's best album