Randy Travis Starter Kit
As his recent stint as an American Idol mentor proves, Randy Travis is one of the most widely recognized and respected traditional country artists of the past three decades. After selling millions of albums in the eighties, Travis remained a force on the country charts throughout the nineties. This decade, he has won several Grammy awards for his Christian albums, and even returned to the top of the country charts with “Three Wooden Crosses”, a selection from one of those albums.
A Starter Kit for an artist like Randy Travis can only skim the surface. Those looking to dig deeper should check out Leeann’s Favorite Songs by Favorite Artists: Randy Travis feature, along with his recent collaboration with Carrie Underwood on “I Told You So”, which resulted in his first-ever top ten pop hit, a full thirty years after he made his first appearance on the country charts with “She’s My Woman” under his real name, Randy Traywick.
“On the Other Hand” from the 1986 album Storms of Life
His first hit single was an instant classic about the consequences of infidelity.
“Diggin’ Up Bones” from the 1986 album Storms of Life
He’ll forever have coolness for scoring a #1 hit with “exhuming” in the chorus.
“Forever and Ever, Amen” from the 1987 album Always & Forever
This instant wedding classic powered his second album to quintuple platinum status.
“I Told You So” from the 1987 album Always & Forever
The original version is mandatory listening for fans of Carrie Underwood and contemporary country music.
“Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart” from the 1989 album No Holdin’ Back
The production was startlingly innovative for the time, and Travis deserves kudos for convincing listeners that it’s the woman who was cheated on who is being unreasonable.
In Memoriam: Dan Seals
Successful country singer Dan Seals has passed away at the age of 61. Seals had a long run at the top of the country charts after a pop career as one half of England Dan and John Ford Coley. After the duo scored a huge hit with “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” Seals returned to his country roots.
Although he had a string of country hits, he is most remembered for his two award-winning chart-toppers. In 1986, he won two CMA awards: Single of the Year for “Bop”, and Vocal Duo of the Year for “Meet Me in Montana”, his collaboration with Marie Osmond.
Seals is survived by his wife and his four children. Share your memories and tributes to his music in the commments.