Album Notes

An experienced artist, songwriter, and performer, Leland Martin has made an impact on the country music scene. The voice is uniquely Leland's, but it sounds hauntingly familiar. He writes songs that sound deceptively simple on first listen, but closer examination reveals genuine craftsmanship. The material is varied, fresh, new and alive, but his Missouri stubbornness refuses to let go of what he knows to be true country music.

Leland's country roots go back to his dad, a great singer and player in his own right, as was his grandmother, Nellie. From an early age, singing in family bands, Leland learned that traditional country music stirred something inside an audience, something they could relate to. The opportunity to perform inspired his songwriting, causing him to write from his heart and soul, in hopes of touching people with his words and music the way his heroes, Merle Haggard, Buck Owens, Hank Williams, and George Jones did.

From southern Missouri, Leland made frequent treks to Nashville, most often when invited to perform at the famed Bluebird Café. In the meantime, while pursuing a career in music, Leland did everything from sawmill work, to house painting, to driving a truck. Eventually he landed the job of lead guitarist in Freddie Hart's band. He toured with Freddie for one year, during which time the two became friends. While recording "Simply Traditional," Leland invited his old friend to perform as a special guest on the album. The result is the beautiful duet, "Freddie's Heart." Other notable guests on Leland's album include famed harmonica player, Charlie McCoy, and superb guitarist, Chris Leuzinger.

In early 2002, Leland signed with Nashville indie label, IGO Records. Label President, Kacey Jones, has this to say..."Leland Martin came to us with the best album I've heard in over a decade. The songs are stunning, the voice is soothing and magical, and the producers, Michael Burns and Doug Wayne, have done an excellent job of capturing it all on 'Simply Traditional.' We're extremely proud to be associated with this project...when you hear Leland's voice, you'll know why."