Page 8 - ION Indie Magazine JulyAugust 2019

A lifetime of great musical experiences brings stories, showmanship, music, and memories; a true
gift that is handed down from the amazing pioneers of country music to ones who were there to
receive it. There is a sense of passion and duty to carry on the music that is so revered, but yet,
seemingly becoming extinct. Gary strives to keep tradition alive with a growing and loyal fan base
that ranges from longtime classic country fans to a whole new generation who are excited to
discover this enduring music for the first time.

What separates his show from the rest is that Gary is not a Johnny Cash impersonator…though the
sounds can sometimes be haunting when Gary decides he wants to sound like Cash, Willie, and a
dozen more voices. He will captivate and entertain an audience just as his predecessors did by
combining great vocals, and a reimagining of classics, as well as original songs that seem like
standards after the first time you hear them. And his contributions to traditional country music have
not gone unnoticed -- in 2018, Gary was nominated for “Traditional Country Music Artist of the Year”
and “Song of the Year” by the Josie Awards.

Gary West’s new album, “Heroes, Friends & Legends,” is the third in his “For The Love of Cash” series.
The project features 10 country classics, originally done by Johnny Cash and other legends, plus 2
originals and a special duet with Leona Williams. For those that may not know, Leona is a multi-
award-winning singer/songwriter and was once married to Merle Haggard.

Although I have not met Gary in person, we have become friends through our phone conversations
and interviews. What impresses me most with Gary is his sincerity and passion for the music he loves.
While in many ways, he is what I consider a new artist, he is the keeper of the flame for real country
music. He works tirelessly along with his wife Julie at promoting, booking, recording, and performing.
That is no small task for an independent artist not having the support and resources afforded by a
major record label. But it has certainly paid off for him. He plays sellout shows all over the country
and gets rave reviews both from the fans and his peers. I have had many listeners contact me that
love and request his music. As Gary was preparing to release his new album, I had the opportunity
to visit with him to get some insight on this new project.