Young readies first Christmas album, but first a tour stop in Spokane

Autumn just began, but Chris Young is ready for Christmas.

The country singer finished the final touches on his first holiday album.

“It’s a little bit weird,” he says of the recording. “We just did the photos and it was still near 100 degrees and I was dressed for winter. It’s the nature of the beast when you have to get stuff turned in so early.”

Young’s “It Must Be Christmas” will be released Oct. 14, a day after he makes a stop at the Spokane Arena.

A decade ago, Young took a chance as a contestant on the singing competition “Nashville Star.” He ended up winning the season, which helped catapult him into mainstream radio.

Since then, he’s amassed No. 1 singles, as well as Top 10 albums. And he’s only getting started.

Young’s year on tour has been his best, with his album “I’m Coming Over” spawning two No. 1 hits.

“This year has been the next level of touring for me,” he said. “It’s exciting to be doing what I love and having opportunities to work on the Christmas album.”

“It Must Be Christmas” features special guest appearances, including by country icon Alan Jackson on “There’s A New Kid In Town.” The song originally appeared on Jackson’s first Christmas album released in 1993 as a duet with Keith Whitley.

Country superstar Brad Paisley joins Young for a powerful rendition of “The First Noel.”

Soul trio Boyz II Men lend their voices for an epic take on the Christmas classic “Silent Night.” Young co-wrote two original Christmas songs for the project – “Under The Weather” and the title track, “It Must Be Christmas.”

“This is a time of year that I love,” he says. “It was amazing to work with some of the best people in the industry. This is a special time for me.”

Young’s headlining a tour with Cassadee Pope and Dan + Shay.

“This year has been amazing for me,” he said. “This gives me a glimpse of what is possible, and I want to see how far this all can go. I’m in it for the long haul. I want to be singing decades from now.”