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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZSAWYER BROWNModern five-piece country band with spirited attitude; country hits beginning mid-'80s incl. several gold and platinum albums. Formed in 1981 from remnants of Don King's backup band: lineup: Mark Miller (b 25 Oct. '58, Dayton OH, lead vocals, guitar), Gregg Hubbard (keyboards, vocals), Jim Sholten (bass), Joe Smyth (drums), Bobby Randall (lead guitar, vocals). Initially called Savanna, but changed name to Sawyer Brown (a Nashville street name), to avoid confusion with band named Savannah. Won TV talent show Star Search '83, signed to Capitol/Curb '84, eponymous debut album a massive seller, no. 1 country hit with 'Step That Step' '85; since then chart success has been erratic with four top ten entries '85--9 followed by unbroken run '91--7 incl. 'Some Girls Do', 'Thank God For You', 'This Time', 'I Don't Believe In Goodbye' etc. Underwent only lineup change with Duncan Cameron replacing Randall '90. Live act has a good-time feel; heavy touring schedule of 250 dates per year; consistently in top ten of top-grossing country acts. Albums incl. Shakin' '85, Somewhere In The Night '87, Wide Open '88, The Boys Are Back '89, Buick '91, The Dirt Road '92 all on Capitol/Curb; Cafe On The Corner '92, Outskirts Of Town '93, This Thing Called Wantin' and Havin' It All '95 on Curb. |