Biography

Barry Russell cannot remember a time when he wasn't hooked on country music. Beating on pots and pans as a young child, he aspired to become a drummer. He was introduced to country music while helping his father in his electrical business. Barry began writing songs at an equally early age. A few guitar lessons from a life long friend fit the bill, and from there lyrics and music came together.

Born and raised in Western Kentucky, Barry grew up in Dawson Springs and enjoys all forms of country music, but has been influenced most by the likes of John Anderson and Merle Haggard. Now a prolific drummer and guitar player, Barry has performed in numerous bands including his own band Stray Bullet. He has performed various engagements thru the years that have included, The Western Kentucky State Fair, Goldies Opry House and Libby's Steak House. Winning several talent contests, Barry has also performed on Live TV and radio for telethon charity events.

An active songwriter, Barry has composed a vast array of songs from the heart. Their lyrics reflect his feelings and his philosophy of love and true life. The son of a broken home, the song Hall Street Blues, penned for momma, depicts the life of being raised by a single loving mother who only wanted the best for her children, and gave her all. Years later Barry wrote 10:10 Room 205 for the love of Stephanie, his sister who lost her brave battle to pancreatic cancer, as he sat by her bedside, and for which his zest for life will never be the same.

Music does come from the heart for Barry Russell, and music runs in the family. His grandmother Ola wrote music in her youth, and was a published poet. There are other musicians in the Russell family as well. It runs in the Genes.

Barry still lives outside of Dawson Springs, Kentucky, in a home built by himself and his wife of 23 years. The family includes his faithful Lab "Dixie" along with several chickens. He is as country as country can be, as depicted in his music.

"Life is short and so very eventful, if you really listen to it. Live your life to the fullest. Love it, enjoy it, write it down in song and it will live forever in the hearts of those who understand your meaning, and who really care for you. That is all that you can hope for, and that is all that really matters."

Barry Russell