Page 46 - ION Indie Magazine NovDec 2020

"Heroes, Mentors and Friends - The Legends Project" finds her singing
with some of the biggest names in country music that are still with us
today. The album, released by Heart of Texas Records, is truly a
landmark project. Perhaps, though, it's the songs she chose that really
tell the story here. Each one was personally picked by Amber and each
holds special meaning to the duet artist.

Jerry Naill kicks things off on the CD with the song "Texas Dancehall Girl,”
a song written and recorded originally by Justin Tubb, son of the Texas
Troubadour Ernest Tubb. However, Amber and her husband Randy, who
are record collectors, found a 45 of Jerry's version of the song that he
released in 1973. From hearing that record, Amber thought it would be
the perfect song to revisit with Jerry. As a side note, if you are not familiar
with Jerry Naill, I highly recommend seeking out his recordings. While he
enjoyed some chart success, mostly in Texas, he never quite hit it big
nationally. But in my opinion, his vocals stand right up there with the very
best. I first became familiar with Jerry Naill in the 80s and have been
hooked ever since.

Johnny Rodriguez and Tom T. Hall co-wrote the song "You Go Around,"
which Johnny originally recorded on his debut album in 1973. The song,
like many on this project, were not chart hits but rather solid album tracks
that were overlooked. Amber loved the song and envisioned it as a duet.
She and Johnny blend so well with their vocals. They fit just like a glove!

"It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels" is an iconic country music
song. Originally recorded by Kitty Wells in 1952 and written by J. D. "Jay"
Miller, it was an answer song to the Hank Thompson hit "The Wild Side
of Life." Of course, Amber chose an icon worthy of the song with Loretta
Lynn. Loretta also has a history with the song as she, along with Dolly
Parton, Tammy Wynette, and cameo guest-vocalist appearance by Kitty
Wells, recorded a cover version in 1993. Without a doubt it is certainly an
honor to have the likes of Loretta on this album and shows their mutual
respect for each other’s music.

The Whites 1982 hit "I'm Hangin' Around" has a nice touch of Western
Swing on this version with Amber, featuring the beautiful harmonies of
sisters Sharon and Cheryl, along with their dad Buck playing piano.

Another fine example of a song that was not a hit but should have been
is "Today Is Not The Day,” written and originally recorded by Jeannie
Seely in 1965. Jeannie is quoted, "I was surprised when Amber said she
wanted to record this song, but I was thrilled to sing it with her. She comes
from that famous McCall family of talent and does such a fine job."

What country duets album would be complete without Willie Nelson? I
think Willie has sung with just about everybody, and it was certainly a
welcome addition to this project with Amber. Willie gives his special touch
to "It Should Be Easier Now,” a song he wrote and first recorded in 1965.