Sammy Kershaw, a key figure in the new traditionalist country movement of the early 1990s, blends modern honky tonk with a light, friendly touch and the warmth of '70s soft rock. Born in 1958 in Kaplan, Louisiana, Kershaw’s musical journey began at age 12 with local bandleader J.B. Perry. After a stint in Oklahoma and a period of personal struggles, he landed a record deal with Mercury Records in 1990. His debut album, "Don't Go Near the Water," produced the hit "Cadillac Style," and subsequent albums like "Haunted Heart" and "Feelin' Good Train" solidified his status with multiple Top Ten hits. Kershaw’s sound evolved from hard honky tonk to more radio-friendly contemporary country, but he later returned to his roots with albums like "Swamp Poppin'" and "Cross Road Blues," celebrating Louisiana R&B and blues.
