Rascal Flatts: Did You Know?

Fun Facts & Lesser-Known Stories About Rascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts is one of the most successful country music bands of all time, known for their blend of contemporary country, pop, and rock influences. With hits like “Bless the Broken Road,” “What Hurts the Most,” and “Life Is a Highway,” they’ve captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Though their music is well-known, there are some fascinating stories and lesser-known facts about the band that many fans may not be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at some interesting tidbits from Rascal Flatts' journey.

1. They Got Their Big Break at a Nashville Bar

Rascal Flatts’ rise to fame started in an unexpected place: a small Nashville bar. The band, consisting of Gary LeVox(lead vocals), Jay DeMarcus (bass guitar), and Joe Don Rooney (guitar), was performing at Fiddle and Steel Guitar Bar when they caught the attention of a Lyric Street Records executive who happened to be in the audience. Impressed by their performance, the executive offered them a record deal on the spot. This serendipitous moment was the beginning of Rascal Flatts' journey to becoming country music superstars.

2. Gary LeVox and Jay DeMarcus Are Cousins

Although Rascal Flatts seems like a perfect musical match, two members of the band have a family connection. Lead vocalist Gary LeVox and bassist Jay DeMarcus are first cousins. Both grew up in Ohio and shared a passion for music from an early age. However, it wasn’t until they moved to Nashville and started playing together that they realized they had something special. Their family bond helped form the foundation for Rascal Flatts' close-knit dynamic, and their shared history contributed to the band’s unique chemistry.

3. Their Name Comes from a Restaurant Suggestion

Ever wonder where the name Rascal Flatts came from? The band was brainstorming names when a suggestion came from an unexpected source. According to legend, a man in a Nashville restaurant heard them discussing potential band names and said, “Why don’t you call yourselves Rascal Flatts?” The name stuck, even though it had no particular meaning or connection to their music. It gave the band a distinct identity that would soon become synonymous with their hit-making career.

4. "Bless the Broken Road" Was a Cover

One of Rascal Flatts’ most popular songs, “Bless the Broken Road,” wasn’t originally written for them. The song was actually recorded by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in 1994 and was co-written by Marcus Hummon, Bobby Boyd, and Jeff Hanna. When Rascal Flatts recorded their own version of the song in 2004, it became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and winning a Grammy Award. The song’s message of faith, perseverance, and love resonated with fans, and Rascal Flatts' rendition is now considered the definitive version.

5. They Hold the Record for Most Consecutive ACM Vocal Group of the Year Wins

From 2003 to 2008, Rascal Flatts won the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Vocal Group of the Year award for six consecutive years, setting a record in the process. This streak highlighted their dominance in the country music scene during the 2000s. Their unique blend of country, pop, and rock helped them stand out from other groups and paved the way for a string of chart-topping albums and singles that defined their career.

6. They Almost Recorded a Song That Became a Carrie Underwood Hit

In an interesting twist of fate, Rascal Flatts had the opportunity to record the song “Jesus, Take the Wheel” before Carrie Underwood turned it into a career-defining hit. The band’s management team passed on the song, believing it wasn’t the right fit for their sound at the time. Underwood eventually recorded the song, and it became a massive success, earning her a Grammy Award and cementing her place in country music history. Despite missing out on the track, Rascal Flatts' success continued with their own string of hits.

7. Jay DeMarcus is an Award-Winning Producer

While most fans know Jay DeMarcus as the bassist for Rascal Flatts, he is also an accomplished music producer. In fact, DeMarcus has worked with several other artists, both in and outside of country music. He produced albums for Chicago, James Otto, and even Christian band Michael English. His production skills earned him a Dove Award for producing The Best of Michael English and a Grammy Award for his work with gospel artist Jason Crabb. DeMarcus’ talents as a producer have helped him expand his influence beyond Rascal Flatts.

8. They Played a Major Role in the Pixar Movie “Cars”

Rascal Flatts became part of movie history when they recorded a cover of Tom Cochrane’s “Life Is a Highway” for the 2006 Pixar film Cars. Their energetic version of the song was featured prominently in the movie and became a major hit, reaching the top of the country charts and receiving massive radio play. The success of the song introduced Rascal Flatts to a broader, more mainstream audience, and it became one of their most recognizable tracks. “Life Is a Highway” is still a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.

9. Gary LeVox’s Stage Name Was Inspired by a Recording Session

Gary LeVox’s stage name is actually a playful take on his vocal talents. His real name is Gary Wayne Vernon Jr., but he adopted the name “LeVox” after a particularly successful recording session where the engineer wrote “LeVox” (meaning "The Voice") on the recording notes, referring to Gary’s incredible vocal performance. The name stuck, and he began using it as his stage name when Rascal Flatts was formed. His powerful, emotive voice has been a defining feature of the band’s success.

10. They Announced Their Farewell Tour—Then Delayed It

In 2020, after two decades of success, Rascal Flatts announced that they would be embarking on a Farewell: Life Is a Highway Tour as a way to celebrate their incredible career and thank their fans. However, the tour was postponed due to the global pandemic, and the band’s retirement plans were put on hold. While fans are still waiting for the rescheduled dates, the band has hinted that their final tour could eventually happen. Regardless of the delay, their impact on country music is undeniable, and fans are eager to see them perform once more.

Rascal Flatts has left an indelible mark on country music with their harmonious blend of country, pop, and rock influences. From their humble beginnings in a Nashville bar to becoming one of the most successful country groups in history, their journey has been filled with unexpected twists, record-breaking achievements, and unforgettable music. Their ability to stay true to their sound while evolving with the times has ensured that their legacy will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.

One of Rascal Flatts' most meaningful song lines comes from their hit “Bless the Broken Road”:

"Every long-lost dream led me to where you are, others who broke my heart, they were like Northern stars."

This lyric speaks to the idea that all the pain and heartache we experience in life leads us to where we are meant to be, including finding true love. It carries a message of hope and faith that even the difficult moments serve a purpose, guiding us toward something better. The imagery of "Northern stars" as guiding lights through difficult times makes the line especially powerful, offering comfort and reassurance that everything happens for a reason. It remains one of the most touching and resonant lyrics in Rascal Flatts' catalog.