Danny Hamilton & The Music City Madness by: Jeff Hightower

Going in one more round when you don't think you can - that's what makes all the difference in your life. - Rocky Balboa ________________________________________________________________ - Submissions from all over the country. - 64 fighting for the crown. - 2 are left standing - One will win the Music City Madness competition sponsored by CMT. Danny Hamilton has had the pleasure of performing at venues such as The Whisky A Go-Go and The Hard Rock Cafe. Hailing from Torrance, California, He's worked hard to make it in the music business. Now, he finds himself on the cusp of a budding music career and making his musical dreams come true. Danny let us get a deeper look at what it's like to go the distance in one of Nashville's toughest talent competitions. And with it coming down to the wire, new comers to the music industry can see a lot better what it is they are getting into. However, for those like Danny, it's a hell of a ride that is enjoyed every step of the way. HM - How did you get into the MCM contest and what would it mean to you to win? DH - I don't remember how I initially heard about the contest, 4 years ago, when it first started... But ever since that first year that I submitted, they've been sending me a heads up every year now. I've been selected as a finalist 3 times. First year didn't make it past the first 64, second time made it to the 2nd round of 32.... This year is my 3rd time in the contest. More than anything else, winning this contest would hopefully mean finally being able to make a living off of my art. That's really all that any artist can really ask for... Being able to raise a family, doing what you love, devoting 100% of your time perfecting your craft. HM - What made your decision to get into music and follow your dreams? DH - I was hit by a truck in 8th grade (1991) and was in a wheelchair for a long time... We had a guitar at the house and I found a chart of chords and taught myself to play... After my mother was killed in 1996, I wrote an entire album of songs ("Motherless Child") and it wasn't until then did I ever play my music out for the public. It was the reaction that I got from people that made me realize that I should share the music. Even though, in the beginning it was just an outlet for my pain and a hobby that helped me heal, I realized that by sharing it, others may find comfort in their own personal battles. That is the biggest thing that made me interested in sharing my music with the world... Helping others know that they are not alone. HM - Who are your musical influences and who would you like to work with in the future? DH - Top three influences: The Beatles, Pearl Jam and Elvis Presley. I'd work with any artist that wanted to work with ME! Artists who are GENUINE. I can't narrow it down by names. I have so much love and respect for so many artists and so many types of music. HM - Most lessons learned in the music industry aren't pleasant. So far, what has been the biggest lessoned learned? DH - I'm the type of person that focuses on only the positive aspects of EVERYTHING! (it can be really annoying for people around me sometimes, actually) Even though there have been some not-so-wonderful experiences in my musical life (you'll have to dig those out of my lyrics ;) ), I have been really fortunate to make some great friends and learn a TON in the last 13 years! The biggest lesson I learned is to play EVERY gig, no matter how big or small, paid or not paid. Every situation has something to be taken from it... to grow and learn with... If you play every gig, every scenario... from living rooms to coffee houses to stadiums, you really discover what you're capable of achieving and you learn how to focus on your strengths and dismiss your weaknesses. You become prepared for ANYTHING. HM - What is it that sets you apart from other artist that will make you stand out in the music world? DH - My music I hope! :) HM - In your own words, define the perfect music/song to you. DH - Anything that pulls emotion out of me. Whether it be happy, sad, good or bad... Make me want to dance or cry.... Anything that can make me FEEL something. That's a great song. HM - The competition in Music City Madness must be overwhelming. How have you dealt with all the sudden spot light that the contest has brought? DH - It's gotten a little crazy but it will all settle down again. Focusing on the positive man! Regardless of the outcome, this whole thing is a great opportunity for exposure... One more step toward being able to actually make a living off of my music. It's ALL good. Although I'm sure everyone around me has gotten sick of hearing about the damned contest! Vote vote vote!!! I'm going to get some posters printed up right now, actually... Maybe you guys can hang some up in Nashville for me? ;) HM - In your career up to this point, what would you say is the biggest highlight that you will take with you forever? DH - Everything. I take everything with me. Every moment. But this contest would probably be the biggest highlight, musically, in my life so far. Thank you to Danny for taking time to talk with us at ALM. The lesson and knowledge you bring to the table are something we should all take with heart. It?s a long hard road, but one worth the journey for those who don?t give up and stick to their guns. To learn more about Danny's music and CMT's "Music City Madness" competition, check out the following websites: www.dannyhamilton.com www.madness.cmt.com Remember to vote early and often. from the nest...

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