The Songwriter
Jerry Salley can best be described as a songwriter’s songwriter. Since 1982, Salley has written over 540 songs and has had them recorded by country artists such as Loretta Lynn, The Oak Ridge Boys, Chris Stapleton and Reba McEntire, and bluegrass artists like the Osborne Brothers, Joe Mullins, IIIrd Tyme Out, Rhonda Vincent, Seldom Scene, The SteelDrivers, Donna Ulisse and Flatt Lonesome. Even Sir Elton John and Australian artist Catherine Britt have recorded his songs.
Salley has won or been nominated for many awards from organizations like IBMA, GMA Dove and the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs), he has appeared many times on the Grand Ole Opry and has been on many television programs. He appears frequently with his partners Larry Cordle and Carl Jackson, both prominent songwriters. He also finds time to produce, mentor and run a record label (Billy Blue Records).
This new project is a collection of his songs where he takes a look inside himself in order to let the listener hear and feel what these songs are all about. Participating on this project with Salley are Cody Kilby (guitar), Jason Roller (guitar, mandolin, fiddle), Justin Moses (guitar, mandolin, banjo), Evan Winsor (bass), Jeff Partin (bass), Aaron McDaris (banjo) and Magnolia Williams (vocals). Selections by Salley include “Old Songwriters Like Me,” “What Kind Of Fool (Do You Think You’re Foolin’),” “Me and Tom T. Hall,” “Drivin’ Into The Storm,” “Then Jesus Came” and “What Love Looks Like Today.” Two songs of note are “Will Anyone Visit My Grave” and “When I Sing My Last Song.”
Salley takes full advantage of the musicians’ talents in the arrangements that back up his clear vocals, whether it’s an upbeat grassy tune or a soulful ballad. This release is one that will surely cement the legacy of songwriter Jarry Salley.
