At just 19 years old, Payton Smith plays guitar with the dexterity of a seasoned pro. The wunderkind today releases his debut self-titled EP on Big Machine Records, highlighting musicianship in both writing and recording all four songs alongside legendary producer and fellow Louisianan James Stroud. Listen now to PAYTON SMITH EP.
TRACK LISTING:
1. ‘92 | Payton Smith, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Larry McCoy
2. Can’t Go Wrong With That | Payton Smith, Thomas Archer, Jim McCormick
3. Like I Knew You Would | Payton Smith, Ronnie Bowman, Dan Fernandez
4. What It Meant To Lose You | Payton Smith, Jim McCormick
“It is crazy to think that just last year I was playing CMA Fest hoping the right person would see my set,” said Payton. “After traveling back and forth from Louisiana to Nashville for a couple years, it all paid off when Scott Borchetta saw me play. When he called me to offer me a deal, I was driving down the road and pulled over to freak out. Now, to officially release my music to fans…it is the best feeling in the world.”
Payton had every reason to celebrate – since he first saw Keith Urban perform on the CMA Awards 14 years ago, he has dreamt of playing his own brand of Country music, one influenced by 90’s Country and Guitar Rock. He is every bit as much a fan of Pearl Jam and John Mayer as he is Clint Black, George Strait – certain that his peers have equally varied musical tastes. Emphasizing his gifts as a vocalist, songwriter and nimble self-taught musician — he plays every guitar part on each track – just like his favorite slingers across the musical landscape. Payton’s gift for melody, coupled with sharp but approachable lyricism and fluid guitar playing, sets up Payton to be the hottest young voice to change Nashville.
The industry is taking notice as Payton joins the bill for one of Downtown’s largest outdoor events, Tooties 59th Birthday Bash on October 9, as thousands congregate on Lower Broadway. He has most recently opened for legendary artists such as Dwight Yoakam and Brad Paisley, plus performed during FGL Fest at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. For additional touring and updates, visit https://www.paytonsmithmusic.com/ and follow him on socials @ThePaytonSmith.com.
