Early Life and Education of Trace Adkins: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 22, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Trace Adkins. A timeline of key moments.

Trace Adkins is an American country music singer and actor who debuted in 1996 with "Dreamin' Out Loud." Signed with Capitol Records Nashville, he's released 10 studio albums and two greatest hits compilations. Adkins has achieved significant success on the Billboard country music charts, with over 20 singles and three number-one hits: "(This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing," "Ladies Love Country Boys," and "You're Gonna Miss This" in 1997, 2007, and 2008.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1955: Automobile Accident at Age 17

In 1955, at age 17, Trace Adkins was in an automobile accident where his 1955 Chevrolet pickup truck hit a school bus head-on, resulting in broken ribs, punctured lungs, and a partially torn-off nose.

1989: Stranded on Oil Rig During Hurricane Chantal

In 1989, Trace Adkins, along with nine coworkers, were stranded on an offshore oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico during Hurricane Chantal.

1994: Shooting by Ex-Wife

In 1994, Trace Adkins was shot by his second ex-wife, Julie Curtis. The bullet went through his heart and both lungs, but he survived and chose not to press charges. They got divorced after three years of marriage.

2001: Entered Alcohol Rehabilitation

In 2001, Trace Adkins entered a 28-day alcohol rehabilitation facility.

March 2008: Contestant on The Celebrity Apprentice

In January-March 2008, Trace Adkins was a contestant on NBC's The Celebrity Apprentice, playing for donations to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, chosen because his daughter suffers from life-threatening reactions to peanuts, milk, and eggs. Ultimately, he was the runner-up of that season in March 2008, losing to Piers Morgan.

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2012: Endorsement of Mitt Romney and Performance at Republican National Convention

In 2012, Trace Adkins endorsed Mitt Romney and performed at the 2012 Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida.

March 2014: Rehabilitation for Alcoholism and Filing for Divorce

In early March 2014, Trace Adkins checked into rehabilitation for alcoholism after getting into an altercation on a cruise ship. Later in March 2014, Rhonda filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences.