U.K.'s Inaugural #1 Music Album Of The Year 2… Read Full Bio ↴SOUTHERN RAIDERS BAND:
U.K.'s Inaugural #1 Music Album Of The Year 2017
The Southern Raiders Band (SRB) just completed the #1 Unsigned Artist Album of The Year in the U.K. where 21 Albums were selected World Wide in this inaugural competition. The Southern Raiders Band held the #1 position for the three weeks as voting continued based on group creativity and album production about the above standard the competition held. As being the first award giving in this U.K. Market for such an award, SRB found much notoriety from leading such a popular Music Award position. As the competition ended SRB after leading since day one came in as runner up missing the #1 Album by only one point. However, the #1 Album of The Year is now going to continue and SRB will be there, hopefully, #1 in next years event.
Formed in mid 1990, the Southern Raiders Band (SRB) developed from studio musicians that were recording at the Square Jaw Ranch in Alcoa, Tennessee and Underground Recording in Seymour, Tennessee. Although the members were totally different in genre expertise the chemistry some how created has maintained the group's cohesion and longevity. These musicians worked together on music projects until experimenting with there own original music. The end product of the two different genres created a Southern Country Rock sound that was different from each person style and experience. The two founding members, Johnny Abbott and Ronnie Kelly, had formed a group that is still together today gaining radio airplay and digital song & album downloads almost 25 years later.
SRB THE EARLY YEARS
In the beginning, the band was still performing studio work and decided to form the group that would soon become a power group out of the East Tennessee area. The group would consist of Ronnie Kelly, Johnny Abbott and Toby Smith (Johnny's Stepson since age two) on drums. Toby was only fifteen at the beginning but through 5-7 days of practice every week Toby not only became fluent but a Power Drummer as well. On bass guitar, George Burns, long time friend of Johnny and Toby and also fit the chemistry very well. The next step was to find someone to fill the second guitar position needed to free Ronnie for lead vocal for he was playing guitar as well. The group was searching for the right person for the job and after a couple of weeks Ronnie found a potential guitar player working in a local music store and ask him to audition, Rus Michael, Rus worked out great and is still around today all these years later. ==
SRB CONTINUES THE JOURNEY ~
WITH THE GOOD COMES THE BAD...VERY BAD
One of the last shows we would do with bassist George Burns -in the back- (R.I.P. Our Dear Friend...)
As SRB was becoming popular to fans and music management companies the group was performing constantly as well as writing and recording songs in the studio. However, bass player, George Burns, began having problems with his hands (Due to Diabetes) and eventually had to leave the group. (** Special note: George had came by lead guitarist Johnny Abbott's home to ask help with a cell phone at 7:00pm on a Sunday and was found, unexpectedly, dead at his home, death estimated 11:30 the same night.) SRB added new bass guitarist, Gary Perkins, an experienced guitarist who fit the band chemistry very well and the group continued their journey. Then once again another unfortunate situation arrived. While performing a, New Year's Eve, concert, Lead Vocal, Ronnie Kelly turned to Lead Guitarist Johnny Abbott and ask, "Where am I," and that would be the last show Ronnie ever performed with SRB. Ronnie had unfortunately developed a medical issue that would take a long time to recover. So now, the search began for a new front man-lead vocalist to take the helm.
NEW SINGER ARRIVES
While the searching process for a new singer, SRB had auditioned a couple of prospects, but while at practice one evening, a young man named, Lee Butcher, came in and introduced himself and said that, Ronnie Kelly former lead vocal, had told him to try out for the available position. With a little work, practice, recording and concerts young Lee worked out great. So former lead vocal Ronnie had found his own replacement and found an incredible singer that was beyond beginner status and remains all these years later.
ONE MORE HURDLE
As SRB continued to play, write and record, Gary Perkins express concern and needed to leave the group for a period of time. At this point, new lead vocal Lee, informed the group that not only did he sing and play guitar he was an accomplished bass player. WOW! We couldn't believe our ears. We, of course, tried Lee out on bass guitar and Lee has remained playing bass Guitar and fronting SRB for over 15+ years. Most note, when SRB has large audience concerts, Gary Perkins, returns to the stage freeing Lee to be more interactive with the fans. Gary is a great friend and musician creating an incredible asset to the band.
SOUTHERN RAIDERS BAND ~ THE MUSIC
The Southern Raiders Band has a full catalog of music including 10 complete albums of music. In the beginning, SRB was formed by studio musicians and didn't stop once the complete group was formed. Johnny Abbott had finished a solo album titled, "Planetary Escape," his first solo effort at the Square Jaw Ranch and had started the second one there titled, "Southern Raiders." Johnny was using a band title for his solo projects named, "Twilight Rose Band." However, the album title would become the new band name the, Southern Raiders Band. Interesting way to get the band's name. There is ten albums to date recorded by SRB. These albums are full length and contain all original Rock, Country/Rock, and Blues Rock. See below for album information:
ALBUMS (CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER)
I. PLANETARY ESCAPE:
SONGS: 10
01. Slip Away 02. You Call It Love 03. Being You 04. Twilight Rose 05. Ode To A Friend 06. Last Gun Out 07. Down At The Show 08. Shot Down 09. Time For Change 10. All I Can Be
II. SOUTHERN PRIDE:
SONGS: 08
01. Turn This Thing Around 02. Blue Jean Lady 03. Ain't Good Enough 04. Played In The Rain 05. George And Maybelle 06. Memories Of You 07. Home Town 08. Swamp Love
III. IN THE BEGINNING:
SONGS: 12
01. Marlboro Man 02. Played The Opry 03. Turn This Thing Around 04. Tip My Hat 05. One Tear Left 06. Summer Time Blues 07. Rodeo Star 08. Every Single Day 09. What Have You Got To Lose 10. Ain't Good Enough 11. Memories Of You 12. I Recall
IV. FOLLOW YOUR HEART:
SONGS: 09
01. Follow Your Heart 02. Marlboro Man 03. Play The Opry 04. Rodeo Star 05. Tip My Hat 06. Chained 07. Every Single Day 08. Turn This Thing Around 09. Summer Time Blues
V. SRB III:
SONGS: 09
01. Miss Cookie 02. Bad Whiskey & Song 03. River Of Tears 04. I Never Meant 05. Tell Me Why 06. Wanna Be Your Man 07. Price The Cost 08. Monday Morning 09. Still Today
VI. SRB IV:
SONGS: 08
01. Goodtime Country Girl 02. Wish I May 03. Unforgiving Lie 04. Never Say Good-Bye 05. Fallen For You 06. Gone To San Antone 07. Daddy's Car 08. Once Upon A Time
VII. SRB V:
SONGS: 10
01. Between The Rain Drops 02. All Dressed Up 03. Stay With Me Tonight 04. Angelene 05. Louisiana Delta 06. Our Love 07. If You're Gonna Play Country-You Gotta Rock The House 08. Gamble And Lose 09. Let's Get Married 10. My Angel Cries
VIII. SRB VI:
SONGS: 10
01. You And Me 02. Rain In A Bucket 03. Lost In You 04. I Love You 05. Family Feud 06. Rodeo Star 07. Back Roads Of My Mind 08. Chasing Dreams 09. What Your Leaving 10. Wild Heart
IX. RAISE SOUTHERN DIXIE:
SONGS: 09
01. Raise Southern Dixie 02. Moses (Old Testament) 03. Amy's Man 04. Swamp Love 05. Someone We Need 06. Gonna Make It All right 07. Without You 08. Done Somebody Wrong 09. Whatcha Find
2017-18 (REMIX) SOUTHERN RAIDERS BAND ALBUMS:
"Raise Southern Dixie," A Remix Of, Southern Raiders Band, Rock Songs.
If You're Gonna Play Country - "You Gotta Rock The House," A Country/Rock Album Written By The Southern Raiders Band.
-Although SRB has many original songs in their arsenal, the group has decided to take new and some old songs to make three albums of their original music divided in three genres, Rock, Country/Rock, and Pop Ballads. The titles of these albums are, "Raise Southern Dixie," for the rock songs. For the Country/Rock music the title is, "If you're Going To Play Country - You Gotta Rock The House." The third album is made up with more of a ballad type style tunes and is titled accordingly, "Archived Ballads." See albums below.
The album titled, “Raise Southern Dixie,” consists of 16 original tunes written by SRB. These tracks are certainly rock all the way with singer, Lee Butcher, slamming out the vocals for these rock songs. Toby Smith follows up with his Power Drums that he is known for and with the addition of Johnny Abbott and Rus Michael filling the air with smooth guitar riffs that also include Slide Guitar as well as Twin Leads. If you like Southern Rock Music, SRB has the proven talent in this original rock album. (FILL #1 UK INFO)
The second album titled, "If You're Gonna Play Country - You Gotta Rock The House," is a favorable Country/Rock album leaning toward the country roots of the group and this album contains 10 songs. This album shows the group's ability to perform in the country arenas and do it with the style of traditional Tennessee Country Music. This album is loaded with meaningful lyrics as well as country guitar licks and vocal harmonies. This album also displays the talent that each musician is blessed with and SRB hopes this trend continues for years to come.
The third of these, Remix," albums is titled, "Archived Ballads," which is for most part what it is made of, Archived, songs sitting in the studio and that had not found a home on any of the other albums that SRB had completed. This album has an array of different songs put on one album that makes it also favorable to the music enthusiast. It certainly can be surprising, for example, the opening track is a song that has a 1950's Big Band area sound that also contains the lyrics that have the, "Bop Shu Wop," in it that goes back to that awesome area. Other songs include ballads that have meaning and hopefully fans also relate to this style music. SRB tries to write something for anyone we may be fortunate to come across that enjoys songs with relative meanings.
What Did I Say
Southern Raiders Band Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
WHAT DID I SAY TO YOU
TO MAKE YOU WALK OUT ON ME
WHAT DID I DO TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
WHAT COULD I SAY TO MAKE YOU SMILE . . .GOOD-BYE
WELL NOW YOU PACKED YOUR BAGS YOU HEADED OUT WEST
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IS TAKE SOME TIME
SO THAT YOU COULD CLEAR YOUR MIND AND THEN
SEND A LETTER OR GIVE ME A CALL
EITHER ONE I DON'T CARE AT ALL
JUST TO HEAR YOUR VOICE ON THE TELEPHONE
TELLING ME YOU'RE COMING BACK HOME
YOU LEFT ME HERE STANDING ALONE BY THE TELEPHONE
WAITING FOR YOU TO CALL
YOU COULD CHANGE THIS HOUSE TO A HOME WITH A FEW WORDS
THAT YOU CAN SAY
WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU MAY NOT BE FOR ME AT ALL
LET'S MEET IN THE MIDDLE AND SEE
THAT'S WHAT CHANGE IS ALL ABOUT NOW BABY
SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOU AND ME
NOW I'M LOOKING SHARP AND FEELING RIGHT
GONNA GO OUT HAVE A GOOD TIME TONIGHT
GONNA STAY OUT TILL THE CRACK OF DAWN
SO IF YOU CALL I WANT BE HOME AND THEN
3 A.M. COME STROLLING IN JUST TO FIND YOU THERE WAITING
I'M FINALY HOME HOW HAVE YOU BEEN
I SLAMMED THE DOOR TO LEAVE YOU WONDERING
WHAT DID I SAY TO YOU
TO MAKE YOU WALK OUT ON ME
WHAT DID I DO TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
WHAT COULD I SAY TO MAKE YOU SMILE . . .GOOD-BYE
GOOD-BYE...................................
In "What Did I Say," the Southern Raiders Band delves into the complex emotions that arise from the end of a relationship, exploring themes of regret, longing, and the struggle for understanding. The singer grapples with a sense of confusion as he reflects on what may have gone wrong. The opening lines express a deep sense of inquiry and introspection—“What did I say to you to make you walk out on me?” The use of direct questions indicates not only a search for answers regarding the breakup but also a profound sense of sadness. The imagery of someone walking out signifies a finality that leaves the singer feeling abandoned and bewildered. He longs for the ability to resurrect the bond they once shared, expressing hope that a few well-chosen words could bridge the chasm that has formed between them.
As the song progresses, a shift occurs in the singer's tone, revealing a blend of resignation and goodwill. He acknowledges the reality of the situation, noting that the person he cherished is now heading west in search of something better. This moment reflects a bittersweet understanding of his partner’s needs, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery. The repeated exhortation to “send a letter or give me a call” indicates a yearning for communication, not just for closure but also for the possibility of reconnection. The singer’s willingness to wait for a message shows vulnerability and reveals his desire to maintain a connection, despite their separation. This notion of waiting emphasizes the loneliness he experiences as he stands “alone by the telephone,” symbolizing both physical isolation and emotional desolation.
The song captures a struggle between individual needs and relational expectations. The singer suggests the importance of compromise, proposing that “what’s right for you may not be for me at all,” which highlights the complexities of understanding each other in a romantic relationship. He advocates for meeting “in the middle,” recognizing that love often requires adaptability and mutual sacrifice. This gesture of willingness to navigate differences speaks to the essence of partnership, suggesting that willingness to engage in dialogues about their needs can foster reconciliation. The acknowledgment that change is a natural part of relationships reflects a mature perspective, yet it also hints at the tension between personal happiness and a shared future.
In the closing verses, there is a sense of empowerment as the singer resolves to reclaim his life. He expresses intentions to enjoy himself, signaling a shift from passive waiting to active engagement in his own well-being. Despite the pain of the breakup, he plans to go out and have a good time, intimating he won’t be left paralyzed by grief. However, the scene culminates in an unresolved tension—he imagines returning home late only to find his former partner waiting for him. This moment encapsulates the duality of hope and uncertainty; while he’s attempting to move on, part of him continues to hold space for the possibility of reconciliation. The repetition of the opening query “What did I say to you” at the song’s end reiterates the cyclical nature of longing, emphasizing that while life moves forward, the past remains intertwined with present emotions.
Line by Line Meaning
WHAT DID I SAY TO YOU
What words came out of my mouth that led to your departure?
TO MAKE YOU WALK OUT ON ME
What did I express that caused you to leave me behind?
WHAT DID I DO TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
What actions or behaviors of mine led you to alter your feelings towards us?
WHAT COULD I SAY TO MAKE YOU SMILE . . .GOOD-BYE
What could I have articulated to bring you joy before you said farewell?
WELL NOW YOU PACKED YOUR BAGS YOU HEADED OUT WEST
Now you've gathered your belongings and embarked on a journey towards a new life.
AND GIRL I HOPE THAT YOU FIND THE BEST
I sincerely wish for your success and happiness in whatever you pursue.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IS TAKE SOME TIME
It's important for you to pause and reflect on your life and choices.
SO THAT YOU COULD CLEAR YOUR MIND AND THEN
Taking time will help you sort out your thoughts and emotions.
SEND A LETTER OR GIVE ME A CALL
Reach out to me, whether through a written note or a phone call.
EITHER ONE I DON'T CARE AT ALL
I’m indifferent to the method of communication; I just want to hear from you.
JUST TO HEAR YOUR VOICE ON THE TELEPHONE
Hearing your voice, even if just over the phone, would bring me comfort.
TELLING ME YOU'RE COMING BACK HOME
I long to hear you say that you intend to return to where we belong.
YOU LEFT ME HERE STANDING ALONE BY THE TELEPHONE
You abandoned me, leaving me isolated while I waited for your call.
WAITING FOR YOU TO CALL
I find myself in a state of anticipation, hoping for your communication.
YOU COULD CHANGE THIS HOUSE TO A HOME WITH A FEW WORDS
Your heartfelt words could transform this empty space into a warm and inviting place.
THAT YOU CAN SAY
It's within your power to speak the words that could resolve our situation.
WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU MAY NOT BE FOR ME AT ALL
Each of us has our own truths; what suits you may not necessarily suit me.
LET'S MEET IN THE MIDDLE AND SEE
Let’s find common ground and explore our perspectives together.
THAT'S WHAT CHANGE IS ALL ABOUT NOW BABY
Embracing change means finding solutions that are beneficial for both of us.
SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOU AND ME
The goal is to discover a resolution that brings positivity to both our lives.
NOW I'M LOOKING SHARP AND FEELING RIGHT
I’ve taken the time to improve my appearance and mood, preparing for a night out.
GONNA GO OUT HAVE A GOOD TIME TONIGHT
I'm planning to enjoy myself and break free from the sadness of our separation.
GONNA STAY OUT TILL THE CRACK OF DAWN
I intend to revel in the night until the early hours of the morning.
SO IF YOU CALL I WANT BE HOME AND THEN
If you try to reach me, I’ll be out enjoying life instead of waiting at home.
3 A.M. COME STROLLING IN JUST TO FIND YOU THERE WAITING
I'll return late at night, only to discover you're still here, hoping for my return.
I'M FINALY HOME HOW HAVE YOU BEEN
As I enter, I’ll check in with you and acknowledge our shared history.
I SLAMMED THE DOOR TO LEAVE YOU WONDERING
I shut the door forcefully to provoke thoughts and feelings about our relationship.
WHAT DID I SAY TO YOU
What did I communicate to you that resulted in this painful separation?
TO MAKE YOU WALK OUT ON ME
What conflict arose from my words that led you to choose to leave?
WHAT DID I DO TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
What actions did I take that influenced your decision to distance yourself?
WHAT COULD I SAY TO MAKE YOU SMILE . . .GOOD-BYE
What could I have uttered to rekindle happiness before your final farewell?
GOOD-BYE...................................
A lingering farewell that embodies unresolved feelings and a poignant ending.
Lyrics © TUNECORE INC, Your Label Here
Written by: Johnny Abbott, Toby Smith
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind