Uncle Kracker

Stage Name of Matthew Shafer: Uncle Kracker is the stage name of Matthew Shafer, an American musician and singer-songwriter born on June 6, 1974, in Mount Clemens, Michigan. He adopted the moniker "Uncle Kracker" as a tribute to his fond childhood memories of being called "Cracker" by his uncle, and the "Uncle" prefix stuck.

Early Career with Kid Rock: Uncle Kracker rose to prominence as the turntablist and backing vocalist for Kid Rock's band, contributing to several of Kid Rock's early albums and touring extensively with him. He gained recognition for his collaborations with Kid Rock, including the hit singles "Bawitdaba" and "Cowboy", which helped to establish him as a prominent figure in the rap-rock and hip-hop scenes of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Solo Career and Musical Style: In 2000, Uncle Kracker launched his solo career with the release of his debut album, "Double Wide". The album featured the hit single "Follow Me", which became a commercial success and reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Uncle Kracker's musical style incorporates elements of rock, country, pop, and hip-hop, resulting in a diverse sound that appeals to a wide audience.

Chart Success and Collaborations: Uncle Kracker has achieved chart success with several of his solo albums and singles. His sophomore album, "No Stranger to Shame" (2002), produced the hit singles "In a Little While" and "Drift Away", a cover of the Dobie Gray classic featuring vocals by country music icon Kenny Chesney. The song became Uncle Kracker's highest-charting single, reaching number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and receiving widespread acclaim.

Continued Success and Touring: Over the years, Uncle Kracker has continued to release music and tour extensively, building a dedicated fan base and solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished musician. He has released multiple albums, including "Happy Hour" (2009), "Midnight Special" (2012), and "No Time to Be Sober" (2020), showcasing his growth and evolution as an artist. Uncle Kracker's live performances are known for their energy, charisma, and crowd-pleasing repertoire, making him a popular draw on the concert circuit.