Artist name: Donny Sawyer

Music style:

Famous Similar Artist(s): George Strait

Artist Description: Donny was born in Sharon CT, and raised in the small town of Canaan/Falls Village CT. Ending Donny's high school years he chose music over law school. Donny was honored in 1989 with being voted #1 male country vocalist in the state of CT. In 1991 Donny released his first self-labeled/Independent album titled "Holdin' on", penning all 10 songs. Donny was a highly sought after performer with his band 'Country' in many clubs, private parties, and other venues in the North East corner. Donny also had the pleasure of being the highlighted opening act for many greats, namely Ricky Van Shelton, Keith Whitley, Bobby Bare, Faron Young, Eddy Raven and others. In 1992 with profits from his album "Holdin' On" and a kind contribution from a party thrown in his honor by fans & fellow musicians, Donny set out for Nashville to further his goals. Within a week he landed an exclusive Publishing/Artist development deal. Only a year later to be selected as one of the "head-liners" at the well known Hunter Mountain Music Festival in Catskill NY, there he shared the stage with Clay Walker and Jo-El Sonnier. In Nashville Donny also had the pleasure of collaborating with many great respected song writers such as Hugh Moffat ("Old Flames .Can't .Hold .A .Candle .To .You" Merle Haggard also releasedby Dolly Parton), Larry Kingston ("Thank God & Greyhound She's Gone"/Roy Clark), Kendal Francheschi("Whoever's In New England"/Reba McCentire) Roger Dillon ("Sticks & Stones"/Tracy Lawrence), Harlan Sanders ("If The Drinking Don't Kill Me"/George Jones), William Kitchens ("Bad Dog No Biscuit" / Darin Norwood) to name a few. Donny also had the pleasure of working with many respected music industry people, whom he still has an honorable working relationships with. In the year "2000" Donny was honored with being chosen #1 Country Artists by the Artist Directs Network's "Born On the Web" contest, presented by "Pringles". Voted on by Internet listeners and a panel of celebrity judges namely, Clint Black, Vince Gill, Lance Bass of (N'sync), and music industries Larry Fitzgerald & Maria Bruiner. The year 2001, found Donny along with his wife Michelle, relocating back to New England, to raise their daughter around family, Donny feeling strongly about the importance to re-connect with his roots. Taking his Nashville experiences with him, Donny still stays faithful to his natural born talent, constantly molding and polishing his creativity and crafts. The familiar ground of performing for faithful fans & new listeners alike, has given Donny the chance to breathe and reflect back on his musical journeys. Coming into his own musically the inner passion has now only been strengthened by breaking new ground to reach his goals as an artist. At present, 2002 Donny as a songwriter has penned a multitude of songs, at present. He has reformed his band and has received more than an excited, tremendous warm welcome from his faithful fans and new listeners alike. Playing for small, medium & large venues, with crowds up to 10,000+, Donny always brings the crowd to their feet and leaves them wanting more. Donny's current single release "Old Glory" (Signs of Hope) has been said to be an undeniable copyright as a patriotic song (co-written with his wife Michelle, in honor of 9/11 heroes), bringing Donny the honor of Hudson NY choosing "Old Glory" (Signs of Hope) as their 'County that Cares' theme song. Donny had the unforgettable opportunity to be able to show his patriotism for America, as he gave a moving solo performance on the Hudson River in Hudson NY in June of 2002, as 3 honorable Port Authority Officers from the WTC raised the American Flag over the Hudson River during his performance. The single "Old Glory" (Signs of Hope) was further recognized by the oldest flag company in the world Annin Co. from NJ. As they asked permission to use "Old Glory" as their 1-800 on hold song, as they introduce their new Sept. 11th commemorative banner to their customers. Donny has been around a few blocks musically, he has been described by many as..."A True Country Artist - With True Country Voice.

Musical influences: Merle Haggard, George Jones, Conway Twitty, George Strait

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Instruments: Guitar

Album Names: Holdin' On, If I Knew Where To Begin, Nothin' Left To Lose, I'm Your Man

Artist's CD Sales Webpage: http://www.donnysawyer.com/music

Web site & Contact Info: http://www.donnysawyer.com