Who is Byrd Burton?
| Who is Byrd Burton? For any of you who don’t think you know Barry “Byrd” Burton, unless you have been hiding under a rock for the last thirty years, be assured that you have heard his music. Here is an abbreviated background to his incredible musical career. Byrd is from a small town in east Tennessee. During his early days he played in local bands and was a High School basketball star. During college he continued the musical side of his life and was the founding member of several popular bands in and around the Knoxville area. Most commonly known as the guitar player/producer for the 70's country rock band, The Amazing Rhythm Aces, Barry "Byrd" Burton began his lengthy career when legendary producer and studio guru, Sam Phillips hand-picked him to be a session player at his studio in Memphis, TN. He was engineering, producing and playing guitar on The Amazing Rhythm Aces' Stacked Deck album when they insisted he join the group on the road to promote the album. Burton did sign on and produced and played on three more albums but eventually left the group in '78 for a life without hotel rooms and endless bus trips. He moved to Nashville and subsequently made a place for himself as a highly regarded session player and producer in Music Row's hustling recording community as well as nationally with numerous television and motion picture sound tracks. He has toured with numerous artists such as Dan Fogelberg, Judy Rodman, Dolly Parton, Suzy Bogus, Nanci Griffith, and Brooks & Dunn. He has contributed his session talents to the recordings of Dan Fogelberg, Don Williams, The Oak Ridge Boys, Emmylou Harris, Crystal Gayle, Mickey Gilley, John Conlee, Judy Rodman, Nanci Griffith, TG Shephard, Bobby Broddock, Pinkard and Bowden, Bobby Bare and many more. Over the years, because of his talent and regard for his fellow musicians he has amassed a considerable trove of awards and commendations. Byrd is a two-time Grammy Nominee (Aces), received a Grammy Award (Aces) and four ASCAP Awards plus he was awarded the honored Nashville Superpicker Award. "Byrd", the most overlooked "Cat" in the pickin' business. Byrd, I'm proud of your "feel". -- Sam Phillips But, now Byrd needs your help. Please go to Byrd’s Story. |
 |  |  |  |  |  |
| Our BYRD has experienced the greatest flight he has ever known.... On Monday evening March 10th 2008, Byrd passed away from his battle with leukemia. Our hearts & prayers go out to his family, friends & loved ones from all over. |