Rodney Atkins discusses “Watching You,” hit songs, and touring in an interview

Country music star Rodney Atkins has been dominating TikTok with the release of his song “Watching You 2.0,” a revamped version of his previous hit. The duet features his son, Elijah Atkins, who was a key figure in the original music video. The song has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, with over 132 million views. “Watching You” initially topped the country charts back in 2007, showcasing Atkins’ songwriting prowess. Co-written with Steve Dean and Brian Gene White, the song earned Atkins a BMI Million-Air Award and secured the top spot on Country Aircheck’s list of the most played songs of the decade.

Following the success of “Watching You 2.0,” Atkins has released other singles like the heartfelt “Marry Me Again” and “True South.” These songs have further solidified his presence in the country music scene and have garnered him a growing fanbase on TikTok, with over 440,000 new followers in the past year alone.

Atkins, a native of Knoxville, TN, first gained chart success in the early 2000s with his debut album “Honesty.” However, it was his 2006 release, “If You’re Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows),” that propelled him to mainstream success. With a string of hits like “Cleaning This Gun (Come On In Boy)” and “It’s America,” Atkins has become a staple in country music, earning numerous No. 1 hits and platinum albums.

In a recent interview, Atkins opens up about the personal significance of “Watching You 2.0” and its connection to his son, Eli. The song, inspired by a moment when Eli got in trouble for singing one of Atkins’ songs, has struck a chord with audiences, becoming an anthem that resonates with people of all ages. Atkins attributes the song’s success to a stroke of divine intervention and the deep emotional connection it elicits from fans.

Reflecting on his son’s musical talents, Atkins shares how Eli has surprised him with his own songwriting and singing abilities. Despite initially showing little interest in music, Eli has begun pursuing a career in the industry, studying audio engineering and honing his craft as a singer-songwriter. Atkins acknowledges the influence he has had on his son’s musical journey and encourages him to pursue his passion.

As for his recent hits, Atkins discusses the inspiration behind songs like “Marry Me Again,” a heartfelt tribute to his wife, and “True South,” a collaboration with his wife and fellow songwriters. These songs delve into personal experiences and emotions, showcasing Atkins’ storytelling abilities and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. With a career marked by chart-topping hits and memorable songs, Rodney Atkins continues to leave a lasting impact on the country music landscape.