Brett Eldredge’s ‘Illinois’ Has Big Debut on Billboard Country Albums, Top 200 Chart

Brett Eldredge has a lot of celebrating to do: The singer's Illinois album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and landed at No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 chart as well.

“I [was] writing for this album since I released the last album over two years ago because I knew it would sneak up on me if I didn’t start writing right away and didn’t start preparing for it,” Eldredge says. “And so, I [felt] more comfortable than I ever have in the studio, with this music. I [felt] like we [made] the best music I’ve ever been a part of to date ..."

Eldredge, who co-wrote and co-produced all 12 tracks on his new record, says that the finished product was a lengthy labor of love.

“I started thinking about this album the day my first album came out, more than two years ago,” Eldredge reveals (quote via For the Country Record). “I couldn’t be happier with that album, and it started it all for me, but I wanted Illinois to be more. It’s a more adventurous, better version of me, and I loved the whole process of making the album.

"I have to thank my fans, my family and friends for all of their belief and support they have given me over the years," he adds.

Eldredge will soon hit the road with Thomas Rhett as co-headliners of the 2015 CMT on Tour. The trek, which includes Danielle Bradbery as the opening act, kicks off on Oct. 29 in New York City. A list of all of Eldredge's upcoming dates is available on his website.

Purchase Illinois on Amazon or iTunes.

Brett Eldredge's Best Instagram Pictures