Tracy Lawrence Album: “Sticks and Stones”

Sticks And Stones, Tracy Lawrence's debut CD from 1991, introduced a young, vibrant new vocalist to country music, one of many who followed in the wake of Garth Brooks' amazing success story. Country in the early 90s retained enough of a traditional element to satisfy older fans (unlike today), while still establishing the music as of its time and not dated. Tracy Lawrence was one of the long line of country males often categorised as "hat acts" and to the general public, all too similar to really have clear identities of their own. In Lawrence's case, this would not be a fair accusation, as his soulful vocals made him an all too rare example of an instantly recognisable vocalist in a sea of clones. His debut album was surprisingly (and to his credit) dominated by ballads and mournful country heartbreakers. There are only three uptempo songs on the album, which he performs well. It's the ballads that he excels at, including his two co-writes, Dancin' To Sweet 17 and Froze Over. The best song on the album, and later covered by George Jones (a compliment in itself) is Somebody Paints The Wall, the story of one of life's losers who seems to encounter disappointment at every turn in his life. Tracy Lawrence has long since established a long hit-making career in country music which continues to this day. This album remains one of his best.

As a young entertainer getting his first break in the record industry, Tracy Lawrence scored a direct hit with this album. A lot of what he sings about he knows from real life. Just 5 years ago I was playing dance halls, bars, and just about any place they would let us in with this 18 year old who's voice would still crack at times. He wanted only one thing in life and that was to be an entertainer. Country music has a great new voice. Give him a listen, You won't be disappointed.

Thankfully this was not the first CD I bought by this artist - it was not a big hit with me. The work on this album can not compare to the other CD's he has released since. His other CD's have converted me to country music and convinced me that Tracy Lawrence is the very best. He has only improved over time- - like a fine wine!

I bought this CD when Tracy Lawrence released it way back in 1991, but over the years had lost it. So, I wanted to replace it, and was able to replace it at a great price. Thanks!! I play the heck out of it every day in my Hummer H2.

This is one of Tracy's first albums, he just keeps getting better with each one he puts out! Tracy can sing a love song like no other. He can also get you up and dancing the very next song.