Josh Thompson Reveals the Best Perk of Being a Country Music Star, What He’ll Forget to Pack for Tour + More

Josh Thompson's life has been in a whirlwind for the past year since his debut album, 'Way Out Here,' was released in February 2010. Last year alone, he scored two Top 20 hits with debut single 'Beer on the Table' and the album's title track. His current single, 'Won't Be Lonely Long,' has already become the Wisconsin native's third career hit.

Thompson is back in the studio working on his sophomore album, which he hopes will be released by the end of the year. Today, March 17, Thompson hits the road with Dierks Bentley on the 2011 Jagermeister Country Tour, also featuring new duo Miss Willie Brown.

Taste of Country was able to sit down with Thompson before he heads out on the 28-city trek to find out what one item he is notorious for leaving behind when hitting the road, what he feels is the biggest perk to being a country music star and much more.

What was your last big purchase made?
Starbucks coffee! It was delicious, too ... just delicious! It was worth every penny [laughs]. It’s the reason I’m still up right now, actually.

What is your favorite compliment that you’ve received?
I don’t receive compliments, I’m going to be honest [laughs]. It’s probably when somebody becomes emotionally attached to a song that I wrote. That’s a big compliment.

What do you always forget to pack when you head out on the road?
Swimming trunks. Always! It never fails.

How many pairs of swimming trunks do you own now?
About four. We’re good. I’m done buying swim trunks.

When was the last time you lied about something?
Just now about swimming trunks [laughs].

When was the last time you were mistaken for another celebrity?
It was over a year ago. I was opening for Dierks, and somebody had mistaken me for him. I don’t know how that happened. I don’t know what this person was thinking. I just don’t know.

If you could have any super power in the world, what would it be?
Probably the ability to change people's minds.

What is one thing you would change about yourself if you could?
The ability to change my mind [laughs].

What is your favorite perk of being a country music star?
Backstage access! I get to watch shows from backstage, and then I get to meet them, whoever it is. You just stand there and wait.

What is your favorite piece of advice to give somebody?
I always get people asking me about what steps they should take to make it in the music industry. I always stress not to rush … just go slow and figure things out. There’s nothing worse than a hasty move.

Watch the Josh Thompson, 'Won't Be Lonely Long' Video