When country singer/songwriter Chuck Wicks needed a location for his song," Salt Life," he didn't have to think twice about his decision to head to Destin.
"I did a show here a couple years back and just fell in love with Destin," he said. "Last time I played here at Harry T's, it was packed and it started raining. Everyone was wet, but we still had a good time."
Growing up near the coast in Delaware, and heading south to study at Florida Southern College, Wicks has an affinity for the beach life, which was his inspiration for the song.
It's the first single off of his album, "Rough," which was released in April.
"I was originally writing a song for Kenny Chesney, but I loved the song so much I put it on my record, 'Rough,' " Wicks said. "I love the lifestyle."
The former Dancing with the Stars contestant has been writing music, "seriously," for 10 years, he said. In 2007, he signed a record deal with RCA Nashville and shortly after released the single, "Stealing Cinderella." When setting his sights on the music industry, Wicks had a positive attitude knowing that hard work would pay off.
"A good song always finds its way," he said.
"Salt Life" not only represents Wicks' love for the beach, but garnered attention from the popular apparel company of the same name, which sponsored part of the music video shoot.
Some of the crown jewels of Destin will have starring roles in the music video, such as HarborWalk Village and Crab Island.
"Picture everything you see when you got to the beach — surfing, paddle boarding, volleyball — we're bringing that 'Salt Life' lifestyle."
Wicks and the film crew began filming Wednesday morning at HarborWalk with an open invitation for locals to join the fun as extras in a beach party scene.
If you missed Wicks during his short stay in Destin, don't fret, he'll be back. And just a hint for fans: he loves to stay at the Emerald Grande.
To keep up with Chuck Wicks and buy his latest album, "Rough," click here.