For artists like Cole Swindell, who are used to being on the road all the time, being home for the last few months because of COVID-19 has been a challenge. The Georgia native is making the most of his time away from the stage, although he is eager to return to performing in front of his fans.

“I think everybody’s quarantine schedule looks alike,” Cole shared with Everything Nash and other outlets. “For me, I’m just glad I can still write, thanks to things like Zoom. I’ve written a couple songs that will end up on my next album. I’m sure of it. That’s one thing I’ve been doing. I’m finally into Netflix and Hulu, and every other streaming service, and trying to play golf when I can, to get outside.”

Cole is playing golf not just for his physical health, but his mental health as well.

“Mentally. I gotta get some fresh air,” Cole acknowledged. “So for me … that’s what I’ve been trying to do. And, just do my part to stay home, so we can get back to work. I know I speak for everybody, I’m ready to get back playing shows.”

Cole planned on being on his Down to Earth Tour this fall, which he has yet to make a final decision about, but says ultimately, he will heed the advice of the people around him.

“Thank God I have an amazing team, but even in this situation, I feel like this is brand new for everybody,” Cole acknowledged. “We’ve never, ever had to deal with anything like this. So, I’m going to leave it up to them. And obviously the health officials. Certainly, as much as I want to be playing shows, and as much as people want to go to them, we gotta get through this thing and be smart about it. I’m just ready to get back out there, whatever it takes. I can’t imagine. I’m still having all these thoughts, like, ‘What are shows going to look like? Are there going to be empty seats between each other? What’s it going to be like.’ Who knows?”

Whether or not Cole is able to tour this fall, he knows the wait will be worth it in the end, especially if everyone gets through the pandemic safely.

“I just know when that day comes, it’s going to be a good one,” the 36-year-old reflected of his return to performing. “I was thinking about that earlier. Our first show back, it’s going to be like the beginning. It’s going to be like our first show ever. It’s going to be a special moment, I think. I’m just listening and hopefully, we can figure out a time to make it happen, ’cause I really want that Down to Earth Tour to happen.”

Cole is back at radio with “Single Saturday Night,” after his recent No. 1 hit, “Love You Too Late.” The song is from an upcoming new record. Cole is currently scheduled to perform at the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach on Labor Day weekend. Keep track of tour updates at ColeSwindell.com.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of WBR / Robby Klein