Songwriter’s Showcase: Greg Barnhill
Published 8:00 am Wednesday, September 18, 2013
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Music is all about expression. Whether it’s emoting feelings or making you move to the beat, it’s all about creating a certain mood.
Over at The Ritz Theatre in the historic Talladega square, the mood they want audiences to experience at The Heart Behind the Music Songwriter’s Showcase is pure joy.
Featuring Kim Carnes (yes, that KC, writer of Bette Davis Eyes), Richie McDonald from Lonestar, Bryan White and Greg Barnhill, these songwriters have been dominating the charts from Music City and beyond.
Barnhill began songwriting at an early age when he says he was just goofing around with words.
A love for poetry and growing up in Louisiana with Mardi Gras music and rhythm and blues, Barnhill developed a love for music and songwriting.
“A lot of radio rubbed off on me,” Barnhill said. “I was wordsmithing, and naturally I would sing. All of these influences just took to me.”
Looking forward to November 22 at 7 p.m. when they take to The Ritz stage, Barnhill says playing at a songwriter showcase is nothing short of magic.
“Other writings inspire me. It’s really an ebb and flow kind of thing,” he said. “That’s something I always want to be a part of.”
The Heart Behind the Music audience can expect to hear Barnhill’s signature style, which he calls “earthy organic soul.”
“You’ll hear a lot of blues and soul coming from my chair.”
Having collaborated with all the artists on the showcase panel, McDonald and he write from the same publishing company in Nashville. He’s worked with White and has played with Carnes for the last 20 years.
“Kim is potent as a songwriter,” Barnhill said. “She’s incredible.”
Summing up what music means to him in one word, Barnhill said—everything.
“It’s my life. It’s what I do. I’ve loved music since I was a baby. I just love entertaining and singing. I’m better as a writer; I dig the whole area where I’m at right now, and I like the longevity and anonymity.”
As for a song he’s penned that’s a stand out in his mind, he says without hesitation—“Walk Away Joe.”
“It’s a sign post and a great song for me,” Barnhill said. “It’s artistic and kind of what I do.”
Learning a valuable lesson early on when he co-wrote his first television jingle, Barnhill says don’t take no for answer.
If you’re following Barnhill on tour, you’ll most likely find him at his favorite place to perform—a smaller venue.
“They’re great,” he said. “Smaller venues are where people really listen. I’m drawn to places that feature songwriters, but I’ll play anywhere.”
Inspired by timeless melodies, Barnhill likes to jam to everything from Michael Franti & Spearhead to Keith Urban.
He says the foundation for writing a meaningful song is being conversational.
“Write a song like you’re talking. Tell the story like you’re talking to another person. Just write it. Be your natural self and show what’s real to you and your reality.”
Looking forward to the opportunity to perform with friends at The Heart Behind the Music Songwriter’s Showcase, Barnhill feels thankful.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling The Ritz at 256-315-0000.
Ready to make music magic under the bright lights of The Ritz, Barnhill says he’s excited to perform in this historic theatre.
Until November 22nd, Barnhill leaves you with this thought, “When the words are right, the music just flows.”
For more information log onto www.ritztalladega.com.
