Trace Adkins Pays Tribute to Veterans With ‘The Empty Chair’: WATCH

Trace Adkins just released a powerful song, “The Empty Chair,” honoring those who gave their life serving in the Armed Forces. The song, written by Greg Crowe, Johnny Garcia and Adam Wood, is from Adkins’ upcoming new album.

“The music video for ‘Empty Chair’ honors friends and family of fans that were shared in tribute,” Adkins tweeted. “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

The photos used in “The Empty Chair” were submitted by fans who wanted to honor their loved ones. The Grand Ole Opry member has been a longtime advocate and support of veterans, serving as the spokesperson for The Wounded Warrior Project, and completing 12 USO Tours.

“I’m a better man for having associated with these men and women. I always say that if you have the opportunity to be in the presence of heroes, take it. You’ll be better for it,” Adkins tells U.S. Veterans Magazine. “It’s always been a privilege to work with veteran organizations and it’s really been the most meaningful thing that I’ve done in my career.”

Adkins previously revealed there were 25 songs on his next set of tunes, which is slated to be released later this year.

“There’s nothing else like it,” Adkins says of spending time in the studio. “That is still my favorite thing to do in this business: go into the studio with some lyrics and a melody and then let the finest musicians in the world help turn it into something magical. It liberates me.”

Adkins also hinted he might soon be seen on the big screen as well.

“I’ve got a couple movies in the can that we did last year, and we’re doing another soon,” Adkins told  Sounds Like Nashville. “I’ve really enjoyed doing it. It’s just a lot of fun. I look at it as similar to some of my favorite days in the music business, which are the days in the studio with the band and laying down tracks and the creative juices are flowing. There’s an adrenaline rush to be a part of that. That’s what a movie set is like. You are surrounded by creative people who bring the best with them. It’s a very stimulating environment – everyone being as creative as they can possibly be.”

Adkins will hit the road later this year, joining Blake Shelton on Shelton’s Friends and Heroes Tour. Find tour dates, and download “The Empty Chair” at TraceAdkins.com.