10 Questions with ... Blaine Larsen

1) It's been a few years since we've seen you, and now you're back with a new label and new single, "It Did." Tell us what you've been up to these last few years.

I have been writing and honing in on what I wanted this new album to be. I have spent almost half that time recording this new project. I also started working with a new producer, Jimmy Ritchey. I had a little girl who is now 18 months old and it was great to be home for her first year and I enjoyed every minute of that.

2) At what age did you begin playing music? Did you always know this was something you wanted to do for a career?

I started singing at 10 years old and playing guitar at 14. I was 14 when I first performed in public. Coming from Washington, I never knew you could do this for a career! It seemed much too difficult. My original plan was to join the military and learn to fly with the ultimate goal of being an airline pilot.

3) Who are your musical influences?

Merle Haggard, Vince Gill, George Strait, Jimmy Buffett, Don Williams, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson

4) Congrats on getting one of your songs cut by George Strait on his "Twang" album ("I Gotta Get To You")! That must have been an awesome feeling. How did you find out and what was your reaction at that moment?

I was driving in my truck in Nashville and my co-writer/ producer Jimmy Ritchey called me and said George was recording my song. I was so excited that I pulled over and cried! It was the most excited I have ever been by something that has happened in my career.

5) What other songs that you have written are you the most proud of? What can we expect to hear on your upcoming album, and when will it be out?

'The Lips of a Bottle,' 'In My High School,' 'The Best Man,' off my older albums. This new album I think has my best stuff yet. My favorite thing that I wrote on the new album is called 'Chillin.'

6) What artists would you like to collaborate with, and who are some of your favorite artists you have worked with so far?

I have already had my dream come true when Merle Haggard sang with me on 'If Merle Would Sing My Song' which is on my 'Off To Join The World' album. Anybody on my list from earlier would be great, but my first pick would probably be Lee Ann Womack.

7) What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of music? We hear you are a certified pilot.

Flying is my favorite thing to do outside of music. I fly as much as I can. I also love to fish the Caney Fork River, I hunt, and I enjoy working on cars and anything construction related.

8) What are some albums we would find in your CD player or iPod at the moment?

Jim Gaffigan 'King Baby,' Merle Haggard Live From Anaheim Stadium, Don Williams Greatest Hits, The Eagles 'Hell Freezes Over,' Jerry Seinfeld 'I'm Telling You For The Last Time.'

9) What is some of the best advice you've ever been given?

Never give up, ever.

10) Do you have any plans to tour anytime soon?

I have some dates planned for the rest of this year and I am currently working on next years schedule.

1) Do you remember the first album you ever bought?

Johnny Lee's Greatest Hits

2) How about the first concert you attended?

Clint Black and Lila McCann in Puyallup, WA

3) What is your favorite junk food?

Sonic Oreo Blast