For Kenny Chesney, having fans recognize him in public comes with the territory of being a country music superstar. While he loves hearing that his music has made an impact on someone’s life, he admits there are certain situations when an unexpected fan encounter can be a little bothersome.

The Country Music Hall of Famer opened up about fan encounters during a recent conversation with Cody Alan on SiriusXM’s The Highway. After recently running into Keith Urban at a restaurant in Nashville, Alan was curious to hear Chesney’s perspective on being approached by fans while out in public.

Kenny Chesney; Photo by Allister Ann
Kenny Chesney; Photo by Allister Ann

“I saw Keith Urban at a restaurant last week and I’m always reluctant to go up to anybody when they’re in a public place. And I wonder from your perspective as a celebrity who’s famous and everybody knows and you must be spotted all the time, what’s the appropriate way to do that as a fan or a person? How do you like to be approached, if at all? What’s that like?” he asked.

Chesney admitted that “it just depends,” explaining that “every day is different” when it comes to being approached in public.

“I mean, there’s worse things that people could do to come up to you and say ‘I love your music.’ That’s the best thing in the world. That’s why we do it. There’s worse things that can be said to you,” he shared.

The East Tennessee native went on to explain that while he appreciates fans expressing their support, there are certain situations when he would prefer not to be interrupted, such as when he’s on a date.

“But I mean, there’s moments that if you’re on an intimate date or if it’s truly, I mean, it’s just right in front of them that this is not the time and people still do it, that can get a little bothersome. I’ve learned to walk between the raindrops pretty good. I know where I can go and I know where I can’t. And that’s just the way my life is.”

Kenny Chesney; Photo Courtesy of Allister Ann
Kenny Chesney; Photo Courtesy of Allister Ann

While there are certainly exceptions, there’s an unwritten rule in Nashville that many people try to follow: If you spot an artist out in public, give them their space. They live here, too. Beyond the music and the fame, they’re people who deserve the chance to enjoy a meal, spend time with loved ones and go about their day without feeling like they’re always on the clock.

As for Chesney, the country superstar recently released his new album, Silver Sands Marina, scored his 34th No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with “Carry On,” and is preparing to hit the road on his 2027 Original Vibe Room Tour.

The post Kenny Chesney Opens Up About Being Approached by Fans in Public appeared first on Country Now.

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