FOR any artist, having a number one album is a memorable achievement.

But for country music’s latest superstar Thomas Rhett, the success of his most recent release Life Changes was something extra special.

Released in September, the album topped the Billboard 100 chart in the States knocking Taylor Swift off the top of the pile and eclipsing sales by the likes of Ed Sheeran and The National.

“The fact that it was the number one album on the main Billboard 100 chart was really special,” said Thomas, who will be coming to Manchester next week with his Home Team tour.

In fact, it was only the second time this year that a country album has hit the number one spot. Chris Stapleton achieved it earlier this year.

But then Thomas isn’t just a mainstream country artist. His songs have always reflected the music he listened to growing up which as well as country included hip hop, rap and rock.

“The best way to represent country music is to write about your feelings and experiences,” he said. “I very much see myself as a country artist but I don’t think that should limit you in any way.

“I just write about things which come naturally to me and in ways which I enjoy.”

Song writing clearly is in the genes. Thomas’s father Rhett Akins is one of Nashville’s top songwriters who last week notched up the remarkable achievement of having at least one of his songs played on Billboard’s country airplay chart every week for the last seven years.

Rhett senior co-wrote three songs on the Life Changes album but Thomas also worked with Julian Bunetta who has penned hits for One Direction and Joe London who has worked with Jason Derulo.

“I enjoy the process of working with other writers,” said Thomas. “I think the songs are very much my story and for an artist that can be scary as it can make you feel vulnerable. But songs should come from the heart.”

For the first time Thomas is also credited as a producer on the album.

“I don’t think I have ever been afraid to say things in the studio but it was nice when the production team suggested I should be credited,” he said.

“It’s great to work with people you trust and respect. My first thought when we’re recording a song is what it would sound like in an arena and I think they are learning that side from me while I am learning more about the technical aspects from them.”

Having sold out a series of shows in the UK last year, Thomas is excited to be returning.

“When you’re working on an album it can be quite intense but then when you hit the road you can just have a blast. I’m like a kid in a candy store,” he said.

And he was full of praise for his British audiences.

“What surprised me last time was how well all the songs were received, not just the singles,” he said. “The fans over there really appreciate the full body of my work and last time I played some songs which I’d never play in a million years in a show in the States.

“All the friends of mine who have come over have all said the same thing. Country fans in the UK really love their music and are amazing audiences to play in front of. It’s going to be super fun to come back again.”

Thomas Rhett, Manchester Academy, Sunday, November 12. Details from www.livenation.co.uk