KENNY CHESNEY is pretty much NEVER photographed with a girlfriend . . . or any woman for that matter. So when the slightest hint of a possible hookup rears its head, people go nuts. This is one of those times. 

Kenny and his alleged girlfriend . . . some chick named Mary . . . were photographed together on December 27th in Hawaii.

Apparently, that was NOT the first time they were together in public. According to DigitalSpy.com, Mary was ALSO with Kenny at the CMAs back in November . . . AND at the CMT Artist of the Year taping in December. 

Unfortunately, we have no photos of them at either of those functions. One source told Digital Spy that they "Are getting to know each other."

Do you think this is true? If your answer is yes, good for you . . . because I'm tired of trying to figure this guy out. I just don't understand the secrecy. (GotCountry)