Colt Ford is back and stronger than ever! After surviving a life-altering heart attack in 2024, the country-rap pioneer is kicking off 2025 with new music, new shows, and a fresh outlook on life. His latest single, “Hell Out Of It” featuring Michael Ray, drops on Friday, February 21, via Average Joes Entertainment—marking his first release since his recovery.
How Did Colt Ford’s Heart Attack Change His Perspective? In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE Magazine, Ford opened up about his harrowing health crisis and the deep gratitude he now feels for every moment. Determined to make the most of this second chance, he’s charging ahead with renewed energy, but with a newfound appreciation for slowing down and savoring the ride. “Life can change in the blink of an eye,” Ford reflects. “I’ve learned to walk a little slower.”
What’s the Meaning Behind “Hell Out Of It”? Ford describes “Hell Out Of It” as a song that instantly resonated with him. “I loved this song the moment I heard it, and after everything I’ve been through, it really hits home,” Ford says.
Michael Ray, Ford’s longtime friend and collaborator, was the perfect choice to join him on the track. Ray adds, “I’m so excited to be a part of this song with my brother Colt Ford. ‘Hell Out Of It’ is an anthem for the small-town, blue-collar men and women—the ones that work hard and play harder. It’s about that slice of heaven; a map dot place that to some people might not look like much, but is raised in them. Love the hell out of it.”
How Has Colt Ford Redefined Country Music? Colt Ford has never been one to follow the rules—he makes his own. Long before the country-rap fusion became a mainstream trend, he was blending banjo-driven melodies with hard-hitting rhymes. As a singer, songwriter, rapper, musician, and co-founder of Average Joes Entertainment, Ford has built a genre-crossing legacy on his own terms.
With a career spanning collaborations with Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Jermaine Dupri, Bubba Sparxxx, and even rock artists from No Doubt, Lit, and Lady A, Ford has cemented his reputation as one of the most dynamic and fearless artists in country music.
What Are Colt Ford’s Biggest Career Achievements? Not only has Ford made waves with his own music, but he’s also penned hits for some of country’s biggest stars. He co-wrote Jason Aldean’s “Dirt Road Anthem” and Brantley Gilbert’s “Country Must Be Country Wide”, both of which climbed to #1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.
His personal career milestones include:
- Five consecutive Top 10 debuts on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
- “Declaration of Independence” (2012) debuted at #1.
- “Thanks for Listening” (2014) hit the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 and secured the #1 spot on both the Billboard Rap and Independent charts.
- Six singles on the Hot Country Songs chart, including “Back” (feat. Jake Owen) reaching the Top 40.
- Nominated for “Vocal Event of the Year” at the ACM Awards for his hit “Cold Beer” with Jamey Johnson in 2011.
How Has Ford Overcome Personal Struggles? Colt Ford’s story isn’t just about music—it’s about resilience. In 2023, he released “Must Be The Country”, an album that took shape amid his battle with eye cancer. Following surgery to remove a tumor, he was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular disease that affects muscle control. Despite these challenges, Ford has never let adversity slow him down. His music continues to reflect his unwavering passion and dedication.
What’s Next for Colt Ford? Ford is hitting the road again and will be joining Brantley Gilbert on select dates for the “Tattoos” Tour this spring. Stepping back on stage after such a tumultuous year is daunting, but Ford is ready. “BG, who’s like a little brother to me, is the best person to help me ease back in. He’s as good as it gets.”
With “Hell Out Of It”, Colt Ford is proving once again that he’s a fighter, a storyteller, and a trailblazer who’s just getting started.
Are you ready for Colt Ford’s return? Let us know what you think about ‘Hell Out Of It’ in the comments below!