Many little boys aspire to be like Batman, but Dustin Lynch’s childhood role model was more famous for his cowboy hats than his penchant for latex suits.

“I always wanted to be like Garth Brooks,” admitted Lynch. “He’s an amazing singer, songwriter and (an) even better entertainer.”

Lynch began writing his own songs at the age of 15. He joined a cover band in high school, which dissolved when the members graduated. But Lynch didn’t give up so easily.

“I chased that dream. I finished four years of school in Nashville, (Tenn.), and really dove in hard, playing bars every night I could,” Lynch said.

Lynch, who hails from Tullahoma, Tenn., credits his experience in Nashville with helping him hone his stage show. As a haven for would-be country stars, the city offered no shortage of competition, and Lynch had to adapt quickly.

“You learn a lot (about) how to keep the crowd’s attention, going up against other bands,” he said.

The time spent in Nashville also allowed Lynch to develop his style, which he describes as neotraditional country. He cites such country staples as Clint Black and Alan Jackson, along with Brooks, as influences.

Lynch penned 10 of the 13 songs on his self-titled debut, which came out in August. Both singles he’s released — “Cowboys and Angels” and “She Cranks My Tractor” — have cracked the top 30 on the Billboard Country Songs chart.

Despite his success, Lynch hasn’t forgotten the hard work — and sheer stubbornness — it took to reach this point.

“Keep playing the 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. shift for three people in the bar. It’s all practice and all worth it. If you really love it, it’s nothing but fun and you’ll find your way,” he said.

Lynch will be playing a sold-out show at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at the Clemens Fine Arts Center at West Kentucky Community & Technical College.

For information about upcoming shows, visit www.artsinfocus.org. To find out more about Lynch, visit dustinlynchmusic.com.

Contact Laurel Black, a Paducah Sun staff writer, at 270-575-8641.