Tell us about yourself and your music
A chance encounter at Cook Children’s Medical Center is all it took to set Todd Barrow on his mission to revamp classic country with his signature modern twist. One day, an American Idol contestant was slated to perform for the patients at Todd’s place of employment, but the audio tech was nowhere to be found. When he heard the call, “Can anybody here run sound?” Todd answered. In walked Texas Music Hall of Fame Honoree Sonny Burgess just as Todd was setting up the live rig, and the two musicians struck up a conversation. Sonny told Todd about his work with Charlie Pride and Randy Travis and asked Todd if he might lend his technical skills to help build the recording studio sponsored by Garth Brooks and Troy Aikman that had in the works. This serendipitous encounter yielded a coffee meeting to review the blueprints for the project, and before long, Sonny was meeting Todd for coffee weekly to discuss music. Eventually, he became Todd’s mentor, forever changing the course of Todd’s career.
Now, Todd Barrow is making a name for himself as a country artist to watch. The Texas singer-songwriter has racked up more than a few accolades, from a PRSA Award of Excellence to an Akademia Award for Best Country Album, and an artist spotlight in Alternative Roots Magazine, American Pride Magazine and AVA Radio. He has appeared on television shows including Good Morning Texas with Jerry Matheny and Texas Music Café on PBS. He’s even shared the stage and studio with some of country music’s heaviest hitters, from CMA musicians in Miranda Lambert’s band to Fort Worth Producer of the Year Bart Rose. But it’s more than just Todd’s success to date that makes him such a compelling country artist. What’s most readily apparent in Todd Barrow’s music in his heart.
Talk to us more about your latest release
My latest release was designed to be organic rather than mechanical. Bringing listeners back to a traditional sound of country music. It is inspired by true events while playing a show in Houston, Tx. I really had a hands-on with this recording along with my engineer/ producer Greg White (SG Studio)!
What inspired you to write this release?
I was playing a show with my band at the Firehouse Saloon in Houston, Tx. During the concert I observed a couple fighting and getting emotional. After getting off stage I went and met the couple
to get more details. Then, later on, I started putting down words on a piece of paper grabbed my guitar while strumming came out this tune!!! I wanted it to be a more true country song like the days of Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, etc.
Describe the writing and recording process
As I mentioned before the writing was done back at my hotel room after the show. The melody, tempo, and everything seems to flow out naturally. I knew this was going to be a hit!!!
I reserved time at SG Studio to lay down the tracks and vocals. My Producer/Engineer Greg White helped with the process to mix and master the single release.
Any plans to release a video?
Any plans to hit the road?
My booking agent is working on my live music schedule to tour in Texas and hopefully in the UK, Italy and France. I enjoy hitting the road to engage with fans and perform with lots of energy and passion!!!
Nothing like delivering solid country music in front of a live audience.
As an indie artist, how do you brand yourself and your music to stand out from the rest of the artists out there?
Branding is very important in this modern music industry. The way I break through the noise of so many artists is simply being myself, believing in my vision and sticking to my guns.
I stay focused on one task at a time and devote at least 75% of my time to the music. I also enjoy hobbies like hunting, fishing, hiking, and doing fun things too! My motto is I’ve given up on giving up.
Who have you been listening to lately?
I do enjoy all styles of music because good music is good music. My preference is an old classic country like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, even some Elvis.
Lately listened to a lot of Meryl Haggard, Buck Owens, and Roy Clark.
Who are your biggest influences?
I have many musical influences but I would say, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Alabama.
Tell us about your passions
Passion is the reason I’m a singer/songwriter and work hard to be the best. A message in a song that touches the heart and soul of every person.
A passion for creating new songs, recording them and performing at live events. Helping people find their passion is important to me. Seeing others succeed
It is very exciting for me.
What else is happening next in your world?
I’m working on an EP to release in 2020. In the process of writing the material in the preparation for studio sessions with amazing musicians. Gearing up for more interviews on radio and in magazines.
Touring more with my band in various venues!!!
Thanks for an awesome interview, TODD BARROW
Connect with TODD BARROW
Website: http://www.ToddBarrowMusic.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/ToddBarrowMusicInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/ToddBarrowMusic1Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ToddBarrowMusic1LastFM: https://www.last.fm/music/Todd+Barrow/Rain+or+ShineYoutube: http://www.youtube.com/C/ToddBarrowLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin/ToddBarrowSoundcloud: http://www.soundcloud.com/ToddBarrowMusicReverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/ToddBarrowMusic
