George Highfill Music
New CD! Thank a Trucker
Reviewed by Stephen David Austin / RootsMusicUnderground.com, June 29, 2023
George Highfill may not have the same name recognition as, say, George Strait, but he's definitely punching in the same weight class when it comes to delivering a country song. His latest album, "Thank A Trucker," is a testament to his immense talent and unwavering dedication to the craft. This collection of original songs is a delightful throwback to the purest form of country and western music, capturing the essence of the genre with authenticity and passion. Indeed, if the 11 songs on “Thank a Trucker” don’t give you a Pavlovian craving for a cold beer and a dance floor, you might want to check your pulse because you just might be dead.
While Highfill may have been out of the American public eye for a while, it seems that he has found an enthusiastic audience across the Atlantic in Europe. The seeds of "Thank A Trucker" were sown in Finland where Highfill and longtime collaborator Borje Nylund began writing and producing these songs, and harvested in California, where another longtime collaborator, Paul Marshall, assembled some of the West Coast’s finest country musicians, bringing their impeccable skills and heartfelt connection to traditional country music. The musicianship on "Thank A Trucker" is top-notch, with Highfill surrounded by talented individuals who play with both skill and heart.
The album showcases a range of subgenres within the country idiom, while maintaining a pure, traditional sound. The title track, "Thank a Trucker," following in the footsteps of Dave Dudley and Red Simpson, pays homage to the hardworking individuals who tirelessly deliver goods across the country. Highfill's storytelling shines through, weaving a tale of sacrifice, perseverance, and the resilience of those who make their living on the open highway. It sets the tone for the entire collection, capturing the spirit of the album.
Highfill's ability to deliver a sad song is where he truly shines, and "Too Sad to Sing" is a prime example of his mastery in that realm. Co-written by Paul Marshall and Butch Hendrix, this tear-jerker is evocative of the emotional depth found in the works of country legend George Jones. Highfill's delivery resonates with the listener, tugging at their heartstrings and immersing them in a world of sorrow and vulnerability. Similarly, "Two Merles and a Buck" is another poignant track that ends with Highfill urging the listener to "play some real country." It's a heartfelt plea that captures the essence of traditional country music and serves as a reminder of its enduring power.
George Highfill's "Thank A Trucker" is a testament to his unwavering commitment to traditional country and western music. With its heartfelt ballads, toe-tapping honky-tonk tunes, and everything in between, this album showcases Highfill's immense talent and his ability to transport listeners to a bygone era. Whether he's delivering a tear-jerker or a lively dance number, Highfill's authenticity shines through, capturing the essence of the genre and reminding us why traditional country music holds a special place in our hearts. "Thank a Trucker" is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of real country music.
George Highfill Cowboy Gospel
Release Date: 2018
Available for purchase here: http://countrymusic.fi/en/
Blue Moon Cafe © Copyright - Lawton Jiles / Beam Records
Release Date: 2016
CD songlist
1. Blue Moon Cafe
Listen:
2. I Need Some Time
3. Please Don't Wake Me
4. Watch Our Love Die Slow
5. Six Word Letter
6. Memories Live On
Listen:
7. The Riverbed
8. Blackboard and the Palomino
9. I Want to Be Somebody's Somebody
10. Sweet Prairie Hay
11. That Old Song
12. Sieze the Wind
13. There's Light in Every House
14. There's Just the Smallest ChanceTo order this CD, go to CD Baby
The Music Born in Bakersfield Highfill is the title of George's 2006 CD,
produced by Pete Anderson and Jason Robbins. It is a traditional country CD that is a tribute to the Bakersfield sound.
CD songlist
1. The Music Born In Bakersfield
2. Hit the Dancefloor Dancin'
3. Red Satin Sheets
4. Turn For the Worst
5. Until You Let Me Down
6. Blue Collar Blues
7. Bought the Shoes That Just Walked Out On Me
8. Everything Is Ordinary(Until She Makes My Day)
9. Whole Lot, Whole Lotta Lovin' For You
10. Sweet Prairie HayTo order this CD, go to CD Baby
George Arlis Highfill is the title of George's 2002 CD,
produced by Church Street Records, * songs written by George Highfill
CD songlist
1. Waitin' Up*
2. Mama You Can't Blame Me*
3. Lone Star in Texas
4. Oklahoma's Home To Me*
Listen:
5. Delicate Hands*
6. Whatever Happened*
7. The Right One This Time*
Listen:
8. Good, Good News*
9. I'll Be There
10. Too Lazy to Move*
11. Is There A Place (Where Old Feelings Go)
12. Don't Blame Me*
Listen:
13. Curtain Hangin' Mood*
14. The Closest Thing to Perfection*
(Painted Lady)
15. Just Passin' Through*© 1992 & 1999 Church Street Records. All Rights Reserved.
To order this CD, go to CD Baby
George Highfill - Waitin' Up is a 1987 promotional LP album, produced by Pete Anderson, on Warner Bros. Records.
Album songlist
1. Waitin' Up
2. The Brand New Mister Me
3. Billfold Size
4. Mad Money
5. My Sweet Love Ain't Around
6. Happy You
7. West Texas
8. Still Tryin'
9. Knockin' at My Door
10. Nickels and DimesTo purchase this LP as well as other George Highfill music, go to Ebay
