Kenny Chesney took 2014 off from touring to focus on other aspects of his music career, which is what made his surprise concert on Friday night (Aug. 29) in Athens, Ga., that much more meaningful.

The Tennessee native performed in the college town at Athens' Georgia Theatre as part of CMT's new series 'Instant Jam,' which will feature live performances and include a behind-the-scenes look at the artist and crew getting ready for the show.

For the 'American Kids' singer's show, several posters went up around Athens on the morning of the concert, announcing that wristbands for the free show would be given out at the University of Georgia's Phi Mu sorority house. All 500 wristbands were given away in eight minutes.

Chesney performed for more than two hours, combining several of his biggest hits with some tunes from his upcoming 'The Big Revival' album. The tunesmith also performed a cover version of Hank Williams' 'Kaw-Liga.' But perhaps the highlight of the night was his version of George Strait's 'Carried Away,' which included Chesney using his phone to Face Time with the singer while the audience sang along.

Apparently, the break from the road served the 46-year-old well. Chesney says 'The Big Revival,' which is due in stores on Sept. 23, is the record he has always wanted to make.

“I think in anyone’s life, there are times when you just need to shake things up, really push yourself and find the thrill of what you do again,” he explains. “I went to dirt floor church revivals with my grandma as a little kid, and that power is electric. Scared me to death, but it shows you what it means to be alive. I think bringing that sort of passion to how you live your life is everything -- and it’s so easy to lose touch with ... There’s so much more to country than trucks, creek beds and cut-offs."

The Instant Jam wasn't Chesney's only show this year, however. He also performed a beach concert last month at the Flora-Bama to celebrate the release of his new record.

Florida Georgia Line also performed a show last night (Sept. 2) for 'Instant Jam' in Nashville, Tenn. The series will premiere on Sept. 27 on CMT.

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