The following is an interview conducted by one of our staff, Jennifer Webb, known as HOSTBmprs on our AboutCountry Forums with CPI Records Artist, Sonny Burgess.
HOSTBmprs: Sonny, thank you so much for taking the time to answer a few questions. I've been a fan of your music from the first time I heard the full 'When in Texas' album. I can't wait to hear your new album, 'Stronger.'
I know you taught yourself how to play the guitar, but do you remember the first song you ever played?
Sonny Burgess: "Folsom Prison Blues."
HOSTBmprs: Do you play any other instruments?
Sonny Burgess: I also play fiddle, banjo and mandolin.
HOSTBmprs: Who are some of your musical influences?
Sonny Burgess: Glen Campbell, Bob Wills and Merle Haggard.
HOSTBmprs: Why do you think those artists influenced you as much as they have?
Sonny Burgess: It's nothing against artists who just sing, but I'm drawn to the ones who play as well.
HOSTBmprs: What has been the most memorable experience of your musical career so far?
Sonny Burgess: When I had the opportunity to play The Grand Ole Opry.
HOSTBmprs:Is there anybody that you would like to meet that you haven't yet?
Sonny Burgess: I truly wish I could have met Bob Wills.
HOSTBmprs: If you could record a duet with anybody, who would it be?
Sonny Burgess: Norah Jones.
HOSTBmprs: What do you look for in the songs you select for your albums?
Sonny Burgess: I seek out songs that I believe in. You have to believe it in your heart first. Then the listener will believe it.
HOSTBmprs: Do you have any favorite songwriters whose songs you like to record?
Sonny Burgess: There are so many great songwriters that I love and respect, it's an honor to get the opportunity to sing any of their songs.
HOSTBmprs: If you had to pick a favorite song from your 'Stronger' album, what would it be and why?
Sonny Burgess: It would have to be "Redneck Lullabies." I love the message in that song.
HOSTBmprs: Is there a special reason why you chose "Jesus and Bartenders" to be your first single?
Sonny Burgess: So many people would come up me after shows and comment on that particular song. I took that as a great sign.
HOSTBmprs: Describe how you feel about your new album in one sentence.
Sonny Burgess: Like the title of the album says, "Stronger."
HOSTBmprs: What would you like to accomplish with 'Stronger' that you did not with 'When In Texas?"
Sonny Burgess: It's a growing process. I would like my music to reach out and touch more people.
HOSTBmprs: What did you like and what did you not like about shooting your first video?
Sonny Burgess: What is there not to like? It was an incredible experience. Just one more chapter in the book.
HOSTBmprs: Finally, what would you like to say to the people reading this interview?
Sonny Burgess: Thanks for taking the time to check me out. Hope it was enjoyable! I would love to see you down the road and meet you sometime. All these answers were from the heart because that's what country music is all about … keep it country!
HOSTBmprs: Once again, Sonny, thank you for answering my questions. I'm sure I speak for all of your fans when I say that I hope there won't be another four-year wait in-between albums. Your music is absolutely wonderful and I don't think we could stand having to wait so long for new material again.