PERLEY CURTIS BIOGRAPHY
Most of us know the importance of honesty and integrity. Perley Curtis is no stranger to these words either, as nothing but a pure honest love for traditional country music flows from this gentleman’s songs. Curtis is not a native of the south, however, while growing up in Maine, the young Curtis developed a love of country music and its legends like Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and Loretta Lynn. After picking up a guitar at age eight, he played his first paying gig when he was just nine years old – at his uncle’s wedding reception.
In the years following, Curtis performed in bluegrass bands throughout New England then moved to Nashville in 1988. Since his move to Music City, this singer/songwriter/musician has performed in bands of his own and has also earned a reputation as a skilled Dobro and steel guitarist, performing with artists such as: Loretta Lynn, Connie Smith, Johnny Paycheck, Del Reeves, Becky Hobbs, Holly Dunn, The Reno Brothers, Trace Adkins and Charlie Louvin. Curtis feels that moving to Nashville was the definite turning point in his career, “All of my greatest accomplishments happened after I moved to Nashville.”
Although a multi-talented and well sought after musician, Curtis is clear to focus his efforts on his own career as a recording artist. His first CD, Heartbreak Town, showcased his no-frills vocal style and Dobro expertise. The ten song CD was packed with tales of Americana. Recording artist Becky Hobbs was quick to praise this work, “From the toe-tapping title cut to the haunting ‘Love Without Walls,’ the songs on Heartbreak Town shine like pebbles in a mountain stream.” Curtis’ self-titled CD is more of the same and earned recognition from his friend and Dobro influence, Mike Auldridge, of The Seldom Scene. Curtis released a duet CD with his wife Erin Hay Curtis, entitled The Right Combination that is Country Music Heaven, and his most recent CD , At This Moment, is more of the same. True blue country music fans will not be disappointed with any of his music.
Curtis enjoys looking back on his many successes, counting his six-year tour with Loretta Lynn and a one-year tour with Charlie Louvin as career highlights. “Loretta and Charlie were influences of mine growing up, so it was certainly an honor to be on the road with them, and I take their influence on stage with me every time I perform.”