Dillon Carmichael’s journey with the National FFA Organization began when he triumphed in the Kentucky FFA state talent show during high school. Thirteen years later, the acclaimed country music artist is being celebrated by the National FFA for his impactful contributions to the agricultural community.
In the heartfelt mini-documentary “The Blue Jacket,” Carmichael emotionally reconnects with an iconic FFA Blue Jacket he lost when his family’s home was destroyed years ago.
The blue corduroy jacket is a revered symbol among ag youth, and the FFA Official Dress embodies faith, honor, and pride for its wearers. It’s a rare honor to receive a second jacket, but an exception was made for Carmichael.
Thanks to his FFA experiences, “You were learning about hands-on things, hard work, work ethic, and the importance of it,” said Carmichael.
Recognizing his commitment to advocating for local farmers through his chart-topping country music career (his hits include I Do for You and Son of A), the organization presented him with a new blue jacket at last year’s National FFA Convention.
“Never got emotional on camera before; that’s a first,” Carmichael remarked upon receiving the jacket. “How often do you get to have closure on something in your life that was so detrimental?”
Bart Mattingly, Carmichael’s former Agricultural Teacher at Burgin Independent High School and a featured figure in the documentary, served as a mentor to Carmichael. Mattingly encouraged Carmichael to pursue his musical passion when others doubted its viability as a career. This encouragement also led Carmichael to engage with the local FFA chapter, which he maintains close ties today.
Remaining faithful to his Kentucky roots, Carmichael’s latest project, Where I Grew Up on Riser House Records, pays homage to his blue-collar heritage. The title track, characterized by Carmichael’s distinctive deep-holler twang, reflects his upbringing.
His touching new single, I’d Call Grandpa, released on April 5, celebrates his relationship with his late grandfather and the one phone call he’d make to the “countryside of Heaven.”
The country music artist hopes that sharing his story will raise awareness of the FFA community and make farming more accessible and relatable to others.
