Luke Bryan Instagram – After a long journey to superstardom, #LukeBryan — currently juggling a jam-packed schedule with sold-out concerts, a Las Vegas residency and #AmericanIdol — is as passionate as ever about forming genuine connections with his audiences. “For most of my career I went up there going, I got to prove myself. So it’s really liberating to go, I am what I am,” the country singer, who just announced a final run of shows at Resorts World Theatre, tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story. “On your good days your fans will have your back. They’ll be there for you on those bad days too.” Embracing life with unshakable optimism, Bryan is leaning into gratitude these days: “I earned it the old-fashioned way: working my butt off. A lot of people have propped me up and helped me along the way, and I hope they can enjoy the ride too.” Pick up the issue on newsstands Friday and head to the link in bio to read more. |📷: @jerseyjim1453