Rocking out the country music scene with a big dose of ’80s rock, blues and a dance groove is La Vergne resident Terry Lee Bolton. Originally from Detroit, Bolton and his wife Malanna moved to Middle Tennessee 10 years ago to try and make his musical mark on the South.
Now, with countless feature articles, TV spots, concerts and events under his belt, Bolton is anxiously anticipating the release of his sixth and latest album You Can’t Have It, in the next few months.
Until then, fans can get a taste of the American Man as he performs for his fifth year at the Country Music Marathon on April 25. He is also scheduled for his third appearance at the CMA Fest June 11-14. Bolton will also be performing at La Vergne’s Old Timer’s Day festival in September.
A one man show, Bolton is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and drummer. Producing and mastering his latest CD, Bolton has bred a form of country music that has a significant ’80s rock vibe where he channels musical icons like ZZ Top, Queen and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Drawing inspiration from Queen and creating songs with different guitar layers, Bolton calls his latest album a “guitar record.”
“Brad Paisley (and other guitarists) have opened the door for guys like me who play more guitar in their music . . . I’m a fan and love what those guys do.”
Anyone who catches Terry Lee Bolton in the supermarket or on stage will see he loves what he does and dresses the part. His outfits are loud and outrageous and just as much a part of the act as Terry himself.
Drawing inspiration from ’80s hair bands like Alice Cooper and KISS, where shockingly bold costumes were a big part of their claim to fame, Bolton’s look has progressed over the past 15 years to become what it is today.
While he does have a “day” version of his image, he is always in character.
“Kind of like a superhero,” he says with a smile. “It helps me meet people.”
When asked if he is ever star struck, he humbly says, “by anyone who has the perseverance and drive to do this (be a musician) . . . it’s hard enough to live a normal life without putting yourself out there in a creative way.
“It’s a great life. It’s wonderful because everyday is something new and different, but it’s also one of the toughest jobs in the world.”
Bolton is also a producer and co-writer for his wife Malanna Bolton’s alternative rock/pop album, A Musical Reflection of Light.
For more information on Terry Lee or Malanna, visit terryleebolton.com or malanna.com, or pick up one of his CDs at cdbaby.com.
