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For most country artists, moving to Nashville is a matter of course because it simply makes sense to be right there in the middle of Music Row.

But for Brantley Gilbert, there were other factors to consider when it came time to decide whether he’d be picking up stakes and leaving his Georgia home. Like, for instance, his mama.

“When it all comes down to it, when I’m going through something I can’t handle on my own she’s the first person I call,” Gilbert told Taste of Country during a recent interview. Asked if he’d consider himself a mama’s boy, he responded, “A little bit, yes sir.”

Gilbert, who recorded the track ‘Indiana’s Angel’ about his mother for his ‘Modern Day Prodigal Son’ album, has come to understand some of the sacrifices she made — and grown into someone she can depend on, too.

“You know she moved out of Indiana, moved down here with my dad, didn’t really have any friends, made some friends and just pretty much … My dad and her got divorced recently,” said Gilbert. “And she’s been pretty strong through the whole thing. I’ve kind of been there for her. The roles have kind of switched a little bit.”

Gilbert is currently building a new home on a 12-acre plot — and yes, it’s close to his mother’s house, which will come in handy while he’s on the road as part of this year’s Taste of Country Christmas Tour and needs a dogsitter for his pet pit bull.

Don't forget if your a KICKER VIP Member you have until September 29 (Thursday) to purchase tickets to the 'Taste Of Country Christmas Tour' featuring BRANTLEY GILBERT November, 11th at Shooters.

By now, you should have received an e-mail with your special password to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the general public on-line Friday, September 30th.

Tickets will also go on sale Saturday, October 1st at Baskins Western Wear the official ticket outlet for the concert. Come by during our live broadcast Saturday at noon.

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