By Meredith Frye

Early on in his career, Austin Cunningham carved out a place for himself on Music Row as a songwriter. He left his hometown of Garland, Texas in 1986 and made the move to Nashville to pursue a career in music. His songs have been covered by artists such as Martina McBride, Hank Williams, Jr., Lee Greenwood, Wynonna, Del McCoury, Chris Knight, Claire Lynch, and the list goes on. Several years back, Austin was awarded the Johnny Mercer Award for Emerging American Songwriters.
Although writing is his first passion, he is no slouch at performing, blazing a trail with live shows across the U.S. With a strong voice and some of the best guitar playing you'll ever hear, he always manages to captivate his audience.
It's interesting to watch people respond to Austin's songs, whether it's one that paints a picture of salty characters like "Buck Clayborn" or a heart wrenching "Long Way To Go", about the struggle to understand the suicide of a good friend, or the hatred in the sky on 9-11.
His songs aren't the only thing that resonates. It's his down-to-earth-I-know-you-from-somewhere personality that sweeps over the crowd. He interacts with his audience like he's known them since childhood.
"Austin is the type of guy who wants to know your name and has the uncanny ability to remember it. His outgoing personality makes one understand the enticing nature of his songs. I found myself tearing up over lost love and tasting hot chili pepper while boot scooting in my mind."....... Janet Brice Parker, Author, The Ivy Stays Green.
If you're a writer looking for inspiration, a music buff, or just someone wanting to be entertained for a while, don't miss the chance to hear and meet this shining star from Texas. You won't be disappointed.
Cunningham will play February 27 at the Historic Ashland Theatre at 7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10 and may be purchased by calling 256.565-2458.
To discover more about Austin Cunningham, visit www.austincunningham.com