In 2016 Scotty Morton was named Male Vocalist of the Year by The Josie Music Awards, a highly regarded organization based in Tennessee, celebrating independent music. He says, “That was really nice to be acknowledged for doing what I love. Also, the recognition certainly helped get the word out about my music.”
For almost 20 years, the singer and songwriter has been working hard to get his music heard. And it would seem momentum is definitely on his side. His weekend concert schedule stays continuously booked. He and the band have performed almost 100 shows since January of 2021: “We stay busy out there on the road, working hard, but it doesn’t feel like work.”
Morton’s road to musical success started in Columbia, Tennessee, where he says life revolved around music. He says, “I remember that granddaddy would have house shows. People would come and watch him sing and play the guitar. He would set me beside him and say, ‘I’m going to make a singer out of you one day.’ That’s encouragement, even from way back, has always stayed with me.”
Morton seems to have stayed true to his grandaddy’s wishes. After all, he’s an award-winning singer, who’s opened for Charlie Daniels, Lorrie Morgan, Cowboy Troy and Marty Brown from America’s Got Talent. “I feel like music is so much a part of where I come from and I want to keep that going.”
The singer and songwriter has been inspired by many of the great Country Music Legends. His biggest musical influences growing up were George Jones, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and Hank Jr. And with his talent, there’s a chance Scotty Morton could already be a musical influence for others.
Scotty, when did you realize that you wanted to turn your music into a career?
I’ve always loved music, but I was in my early 20’s when I made the decision to make it a career. I knew there would be a lot of intense work ahead, but I also knew that it would be worth it.
Who are some of your heroes in this business that you’ve been able to meet?
Hank Williams Jr. and George Jones… Those were some great memories. They say, ‘Never meet your heroes, but I did. And I wasn’t disappointed.’
What’s the best part about performing?
The crowd! Seeing and hearing their reactions is always fun.
What’s your idea of great performance?
I’d say when the crowd is loving what you do. They let you know you’re doing a good show! You’ll see it right away by how they respond to the music.
What’s one of the best compliments you’ve been given about your singing?
I get told that I have a rare and unique voice that people love to hear. That’s encouraging.
Where do you want to see your career in the years ahead?
I want to be recording more music, out there performing even more live shows. As long as they fans keep showing up, we’ll do the same.
What’s some useful advice you were told that’s helped you along in this business?
Never give up. Keep on keeping on! You will have your ups and downs, but never give up, if the music is truly what’s driving you.
For more information, visit https://www.scottymortonband.com
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