Bio
The Louisiana born and bred Payton Smith is the total package, the real deal, and it all comes together on his debut studio recording with Big Machine Label Group. Produced by renowned hit maker James Stroud (Tim McGraw, Toby Keith), this record captures Payton’s hometown swampland grit. His ability as a songwriter, composer, and guitar player call powerfully on each recording. Coupled with Stroud’s collaborative expertise and some of Nashville’s finest musicians, they have created a savvy fresh sound!
Payton’s connection to Big Machine Label Group came about from a performance at the 2018 CMA Music Festival. His high-energy performance caught the eye of Big Machine Label Group president & CEO, Scott Borchetta, as he was walking by. Borchetta stopped to listen, and within a few hours, Payton received a phone call from the label asking for a meeting. This led to a recording agreement with Big Machine, and a dream come true for Payton!
Payton began making trips to Nashville in 2014 after meeting Kenny Chesney producer, Buddy Cannon, while on a family vacation. Trips back and forth between Louisiana and Music City helped Payton to develop his songwriting proficiency. A desire to say something that is relatable, to a melody that is unforgettable, has driven this 19 year-old songwriter to build a catalogue of over 300 songs. Boasting songs written with award winning songwriters Tom Douglas, Casey Beathard, Jim McCormick, Jaren Johnston, and others. Writing deals from major publishers began for Payton as a high school sophomore, and in April of 2018 he entered an agreement with music publisher, Eclipse Music, founded by Clay Bradley.
“The team is building!”
Payton recalls that many key relationships along this journey were instrumental in serving as markers for being on the right track. One of those relationships is with William Morris Endeavor top booking agent, Jay Williams. Payton met Jay when he was 16 and says that the solid belief from a solid guy booking top selling acts Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Chris Stapleton, and others, was important to validating the dream and vision for his music. A recent opportunity to play in front of a Lynyrd Skynyrd and Jamey Johnson crowd of 30,000 plus fans revealed that William’s belief in Payton is spot on.
Payton’s unique art for songwriting, guitar playing, and performance of his music has led to incredible opportunities. At the heart of his compelling vision, is a love for people, and a desire to inspire, uplift, and connect with individuals from all walks of life.
Recent Quotes:
“As this next-gen of Country artists take hold, being lead by Luke Combs and others, I have no doubt that Payton will be one of the new important faces of modern Country music.
President & CEO Big Machine Label Group – Scott Borchetta
“Payton Smith is the perfect Country package…Keith Urban The Ranch meets Hank Jr. party rock…with Charlie Sexton guitar chops and swagger. Get ready to rumble!
Producer/A & R Rep Big Machine Label Group – Julian Raymond
“Payton Smith is one of the most exciting young singers, musicians, and songwriters I have ever encountered. He hit the Nashville streets running at the age of 14 and now, at 17, is developing into the music artist I believe will soon be the leader of the pack.”
Producer - Buddy Cannon
“Payton Smith is exactly what the future of Country music needs!”
Producer – James Stroud
“I met Payton for the first time when he was 16 years old. From the moment he walked into my office with a guitar I realized he had something truly special. He had already written with several A-List songwriters and it was evident that his talent for writing was mature beyond his years. His relentless work on his craft shows the moment he steps on stage and you hear his powerful voice and exceptional guitar skills come together. “
William Morris Endeavor Co-head – Jay Williams
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