1. Mini-Bio and Listening Guide Accompaniment to Gary Allan Paper Gary Allan PaperGary Allan Paper by Emily Briggs by Emily Briggs Music 1010-052 Spring 2014 Images from www.CMT.com

2.   Allan began performing early, at only 13 years old.  For his father’s band  Later with his own band, The Honky Tonk Wranglers.  He was encouraged by both parents and industry scouts.  First album recorded in 1996 with Decca Records.  Switched to MCA in 1999 for his 3 rd album. Career Beginnings

3.   Allan co-writes much of his music and is inspired by “real” life situations and feelings.  He views “pop” music as fun and carefree whereas country, in his view, tends to be focused on everyday life including commitment, love, sorrow, and the simple joys in average life.  Allan’s wife, Angela, died, tragically, after shooting herself in their home.  Angela suffered from severe, untreated depression.  Allan’s music has been signi- ficantly influenced by her death. Inspiration Image from www.CMT.com

4.   Allan, very purposefully, dedicates time for writing and producing ideas.  He prefers an open and honest atmosphere in order to get the best quality music possible.  He is willing to take criticism and suggestions from his partners in order to accomplish this most fully. Process

5.  Albums Man to Man 1 st #1 song (2002) 1 st #1 Album (2005) Album covers from www.wikipedia.com Used Heart for Sale It Would Be You Smoke Rings in the Dark See If I Care Living HardGet Off On The Pain

6.  Listening Guides

7. Watch Smoke Rings in the Dark Music Video

9. Watch Man to Man

11. Watch Songs About Rain

13. Watch Learning How to Bend Image from www.CMT.com