Tina Swindell and I went to see 3 amazing songwriters at The Red Caboose in Elkmont, Alabama. What a blessing for me it was! Tina's brother, the amazing Roger Murrah was there along with Jimmy Melton and Neal Coty.Alot of people don't know that Tina and Roger are brother and sister. And it was just so awesome to get to see him perform some of the songs he has written over the many years since around 1970. Here is what it says on the Alabama Music Hall of Fame website:
An Athens, AL, native, Roger Murrah became one of the most successful songwriters in Nashville by combining his insight into the entire range of human experiences with memorable hook lines and unforgettable melodies.
His musical career began in high school when he fronted a band. After a tour of duty in the Army, Murrah signed as a staff writer with Rick Hall's publishing company in Muscle Shoals. He moved to Nashville in 1972, and wrote his first chart single, "It's Raining In Seattle," the following year.
His accomplishments were acknowledged in 1988 when BMI named him "Songwriter Of The Year." He has been president of the Nashville Songwriter's Association, International and serves on the Board of Directors of the Country Music Association.
His songs have crossed various musical styles, including the 1981 Al Jarreau hit "We're In This Love Together," which was named a BMI Millionaires indicating over one million radio performances. "Don't Rock The Jukebox," "Hearts Aren't Made To Break (They're Made To Love)," "Ozark Mountain Jubilee," "High Cotton," and "Southern Star." He also co-wrote the Waylon Jennings album "A Man Called Hoss."
If you ever get the chance to see these guys again, you should go! And the Red Caboose is an amazing place--go see Gary and Linda. They'll make you feel right at home!
