There's a reason Easton Corbin is so convincing as a new, traditional country artist. He's lived the life of a country boy. The 'Clockwork' singer recently talked about growing up on his grandparents' farm.

"It's so peaceful out in the country, and it's great to just be around the animals," Corbin reveals. "Plus," he adds, "cows don't talk back to ya!"

Those farming skills paved the way for his move to Nashville in 2006, picking up a job at Ace Hardware, where he became a real handyman. Those skills are still something Corbin takes great pride in having. "They had me put everything together in the back -- grills, chairs, wheelbarrows," he tells the magazine. "I got to where I could put all that stuff together without even looking at the directions."

In the interview Corbin also talks about who his "dream drinking buddy" would be, and it's none other than the Hag himself!

"Merle Haggard, hands down," Corbin says. "'The Best of the Best of Merle Haggard' was the first album I ever bought. He's an amazing writer and singer ... a real hero of mine."

For fans who feel the same way about Corbin, they are in luck. His new album will be out next year, and his new single, "Baby Be My Love Song" is climbing on the country singles chart.

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