Country Star Luke Combs Reveals Surprising Early Career Dream

The singer-songwriter initially wanted to be a detective before finding fame in music.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 10:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent interview, country music superstar Luke Combs, 35, disclosed that he had initially dreamed of becoming a detective before pursuing a career in music. Combs, known for hits like "Hurricane," said he never saw himself as a performer despite always singing, but took a leap of faith by moving to Nashville in 2014 where he found major success.

Why it matters

Combs' revelation about his early career aspirations provides insight into his journey to stardom, highlighting how he overcame self-doubt to ultimately achieve his musical dreams. His story serves as an inspiration for others who may be hesitant to pursue unconventional paths.

The details

Combs told Today's Willie Geist that being a detective was his original career goal, joking that he "would have nailed the donut part for sure." Despite always singing, Combs said he never envisioned himself as a professional performer. It wasn't until 2014, when he moved to Nashville, that he wrote and recorded "Hurricane," his breakout hit song. Combs will soon embark on his "My Kinda Saturday Night Tour" and release a new album on March 20.

  • In 2014, Combs moved to Nashville and wrote his first hit song, "Hurricane."
  • Combs' new album will be released on March 20, 2026.
  • Combs will kick off his "My Kinda Saturday Night Tour" in March 2026.

The players

Luke Combs

A 35-year-old country music superstar known for hits like "Hurricane."

Willie Geist

The host of Today who interviewed Luke Combs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That's what I wanted to be. I would have nailed the donut part for sure.”

— Luke Combs, Country Music Star

“All I did was sing all the time and never one time was I like, 'maybe I could sing for a living.'”

— Luke Combs, Country Music Star

“You can't be afraid to bet on yourself. It can happen, man. I'm proof positive that it can happen. The goal is not the destination, it's the journey. Getting there is the fun part.”

— Luke Combs, Country Music Star

What’s next

Combs will embark on his "My Kinda Saturday Night Tour" beginning in March 2026, playing more than a dozen shows across eight countries before wrapping up in London on August 1, 2026.

The takeaway

Luke Combs' story demonstrates that even when we don't initially see ourselves achieving our dreams, taking a leap of faith and believing in ourselves can lead to unexpected and remarkable success. His journey from aspiring detective to country music superstar serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem.