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, and an artist spotlight in Alternative Roots Magazine, American Pride Magazine, and AVA Live 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 is his heart.
Todd’s music is not country for old men. While he undoubtedly draws his sonic influence from titans like Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, his melodies skew modern. He plays almost every instrument, from piano to guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and drums, and the multi-instrumentalist doubles as a songwriter for himself as well as for other artists. “If I can put a smile on someone’s face through song, well that just means the world to me,” he says. “I try to get to the real heart and soul of a song. To me, it’s not just words but a story, and I do my best to portray that with every line. That’s my main draw to country music; the stories, the people, and the sincerity that comes from the heart.”
It’s precisely that heart that has won over audiences around the world. Todd Barrow’s recent single, “The House That Love Built”, co-written with Sonny Burgess, was featured on RightNow TV and was honored by PRSA Fort Worth for its fundraising efforts on behalf of the Ronald McDonald house. Todd was featured in the lineup for Bo’s Extravaganza festival at John Schneider’s Studio, alongside such artists as Kid Rock and Tom Wopat from Dukes of Hazzard. He has received radio airplay from Italy Radio 6.75 for his single “Hot Southern Night”.
Todd Barrow just released his latest single, “Hell and Back,” written by longtime Nashville songwriter Lonnie Ratliff, and is hard at work on new music in the studio. Todd is a proud member of the Harry Fox Agency, the Country Music Association, the International Singer-Songwriters Association, the Texas Music Office, BMI, the Fort Worth Songwriters Association, American Music Podcasting, the NSAIDFW Songwriters Association, the Dallas Songwriters Association, the British Country Music Association and the Bayou Country Music Association.
Song name: Hell and Back
Music Genre:: Country
The song is about honoring your spouse, significant other, lover. Many temptations out there to stray from the one you are within this world. Treat them right and don’t buy into the grass is greener on the other side. Don’t cheat and keep your love moving in the right direction! Hell and Back was written by Lonnie Ratliff with Oakie Acres Music (BMI). A veteran country songwriter who has worked with top names in the business. I simply brought it to life with my heart & vocals.
Link to play:
Band members:
Drummer- Steve Howell
Lead guitarist- Andy Blevins
Bass- Elan Sealy
How do you spend most of your time…
I live in Burleson Texas outside of Fort Worth. Located in the United States of America. I spend most of my time either hunting, fishing, traveling and performing at live music events. I also spend time taking care of animals. A dog named Dolly, a cat named Boo and two chickens Thelma & Louise!
Who have been the most influential in your music and why?
I would have to say that my mom is at the top of the list. She taught me how to sing and allowed me to learn how to play several instruments. Growing up I listened to many types of music but swept away by country artists like Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Loretta Lynn.
When did you know that this was the right path for you?
I knew at the age of five believe it or not. It was in my blood and never left me. It sort of comes naturally to make music for me!
What do you like most about what you do?
I enjoy the most lifting people out of a place of despair. When you hear a song it can change your mood or how you feel at that moment. Seeing the effects of singing to a live audience or the feedback after they listen to one of my recordings. Very exciting stuff which keeps me motivated to give them more!
What do you most hope to accomplish with your influence?
I hope that I will make a positive impact on society. Truly connect with humanity in a way that is not fake. I want to be real at all times to inspire everyone to go after their dreams.
What is the biggest obstacle you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle in my career has been the amount of competition in the field of music. I had to think outside the box and come up with new strategies to stay ahead of the game. At times when I feel like giving up, I encourage my self to keep going. Staying focused on the dream with a drive that never quits.
What do you want people to remember most about you and your career?
A humble guy who loved people, he always worked hard to bring his best for the music enthusiast. Committed to the vision of making lives better with his songs.
What are you most looking forward to this next month?
An increase in super fans! Much more engagement with those who continue to follow me as a country artist. Climbing the charts and getting closer to winning a grammy. Many more magazines, TV & radio interviews to share my life.
Website & social media links:
http://www.ToddBarrowMusic.com
http://www.facebook.com/ToddBarrowMusic
http://www.twitter.com/ToddBarrowMusic
http://www.instagram.com/ToddBarrowMusic1