Being 22 years old, I have grown up surrounded by the many hits of Randy Travis. My mother became a fan, exposing the music to me as a child and I even realized then that this was the best country music I would ever here. The voice, the choruses, and the lyrics make songs like 'Forever and Ever Amen' and even the lesser known ones like 'My Greatest Fear', unforgettable. I had the great opportunity of going to see Randy perform at the Durham Fair in CT a few years back on the Passing Through tour. It was an incredible show and you could feel the emotion in the air. When I went out to Las Vegas to work for Wild Streak Talent as an acting extra for 'Rocky Balboa' in December 2005, I saw that Randy was playing the Golden Nugget and jumped on that as well. Amazing shows.

The funny thing is, the songs Randy keeps writing are all masterworks. 'Out of My Bones', 'I Can See It In Your Eyes', and 'Faith in You' are all incredible with real power and emotion within these tracks. There will never be another country singer like Randy as he has stood the test of time, and even hit a different avenue by inspiring us with some Christian warmth in songs like 'Three Wooden Crosses.'

I also make it a point to see his movies like 'John John in the Sky', 'Visitation', and my personal favorite, 'Black Dog' with Patrick Swayze. I remember after hearing 'My Greatest Fear' in the closing credits of 'Black Dog', I ran to my computer and immediately purchased a copy of the movie soundtrack. I do suggest Randy fans see 'John John in the Sky' as it shows Randy's acting prowess when he plays a more villainous role and does it believably.

I remember when I heard Randy was covering the classic 'Chiseled In Stone' on a Cracker Barrel exclusive collection. Well the day it came out I was late to work because I had to drive an hour to the nearest Cracker Barrel Store/Restaurant to pick up a copy.

To say I am excited about 'Around the Bend' is an understatement. Thank you greatly for the 'Faith in You' free download! It is great to have this single, as I have even been playing it over the P.A. in the office, and in my vehicle all the time. Good wholesome music is something Randy Travis has always offered his fans.

I definitely hope Mr. Travis comes around the Connecticut area this year because it would be great to see him perform live again. I have a feeling 'Faith in You' live would be a captivating experience. I have seen many live rock, country, and hip hop acts, including Kenny Rogers, Guns N Roses, 38 Special, The Harlem Diplomats, John Waite, Ringo Starr, Huey Lewis, Hall & Oates, Hootie and the Blowfish, etc. But not one of these can compare to the aura of a Randy Travis show.

In closing:

'we gave you our love, one thing you can't lose, you believe in us, and we still have faith in you.'

Best of luck with the new album Randy. The fans are with you.

And a special shoutout to Charlene Quire at the office! ;-)

- Anthony Maurizio
anthony.maurizio@thehartford.com
http://www.myspace.com/kid_dynamite85