1985

PATTY LOVELESS

Patty Loveless was first introduced to me by her brother, Roger Ramey, in 1985. He pretended to have an appointment with me and walked right into my office. I decided to hear him out and he played me demos of his sister, Patty. After hearing a couple of songs and realizing how incredible her voice was, I offered Patty a record deal.

As I mentioned previously, Patty and I did three albums together before we achieved a platinum album, Honky Tonk Angel. Even with this success, MCA was still not sold on Patty as a long-term artist. MCA did not pick up her option and let her go, and she signed with CBS Nashville with Emory as her sole producer. She and Emory would also go on to marry.

Patty is no longer with CBS but she continues to record successfully, winning awards and accolades, while associated with other labels. Currently, she is recording independently and touring. Contemporary artists like Miranda Lambert and others look up to her as a true music icon. Patty never compromised her authenticity and has still had a wonderful career—on her own terms. You can’t beat that.

Signing Patty was one of the best decisions I ever made as an A&R executive, and in hindsight, although I questioned the decision, letting her go to CBS would free Patty up to achieve the success she so deserved.

“If not for Tony, there would be no Patty Loveless.”

Patty Loveless

Sheila Shipley, Patty Loveless, me, and Walt Wilson.

THE MODERN HONKY TONK ANGEL.