You never know who’ll walk into our studios – welcome to The Back Forty. This is where we highlight artists who walk the line outside of today’s country chart with their music, as well as the folks who have made an impact on country music – yesterday and today.
Tony Brown was the man sitting in the producer’s chair for Brooks & Dunn’s “Believe,” Trisha Yearwood’s “How Do I Live,” and just about every hit from George Strait, Reba McEntire, and Vince Gill in the ’90s. In his role as a producer and record label executive, Tony helped craft that ’90s country sound that is so revered today by fans and artists alike. In 2018, Tony chronicled his 40-plus year career in his book Elvis, Strait, to Jesus, which covers his work with the acts mentioned above as well as his time as a musician with Emmylou Harris and the King – Elvis Presley.
Recently, Tony stopped by the studio to catch up with Kix. The pair reflect on some cherished times from Music Row’s past. They also discuss today’s shift in songwriting and a song’s impact versus chart success. Plus, Tony shares his current work with EmiSunshine, Drake Milligan, and Gary Allan.
On Thursday, February 27th, check back for Part 2 of Kix’s conversation with Tony Brown as they talk about his time as a musician with Elvis Presley and Emmylou Harris. And, Tony shares a few stories from his time as a record label executive making key moves that greatly impacted the careers of Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett, and Patty Loveless. Learn more about Tony and his book at his official website here.