Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 193 Molly’s guest is Nashville Hall of Fame singer-songwriter, Tony Arata, and his unexpected journey to the limelight of his craft, without that ever being his intention.

Being “last of the litter” with 4 older siblings, Tony shares, “my parents were the best role models ever… mom with a 5th, and dad, a 3rd grade education.” Pivotal moments are a theme—a chance gift of a $50 guitar from his brother with a treasure trove of all his siblings’ albums are what ignited Tony’s musical interest and “fancying to be songwriter.” Hear how Aretha Franklin’s R-E-S-P-E-C-T and 11th grade English teacher Sally Scott putting Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath in his hands were pivotal in his epiphany: “Songs come from people, not the radio or albums.”

Moving from Columbia, SC to Tybee, GA in 11th grade, Tony recalls, “I had no friends in Tybee; my guitar and music were my friends.” He learned by voraciously listening to music and reading lyrics. Chuckle as you hear how Tony (journalism major in college) lied his way to his first job as writer… about buses. And the rest is history. A few of many gems:
* True peace is found when doing what you enjoy for no other reason than it helps define you and brings you peace
* That kid learning to play guitar at Tybee island is the same old man amazed by the 12 notes and 26 letters. This world of music is an ever evolving process….Nobody says, “I’ve arrived”.
* Music is my peace, my outlet – I never had to ask permission from anyone (to write music)
* … do it regardless of fame—no hollow pursuit—waiting on validation to come from somewhere else.

Tony gives insight into his creative process: “Write for the best idea, best song you can at the time.” And watching a lot of people “break the rules” made all the difference. He talks about his cherished family, including wife Jaymi’s game-changing role. Hear about his Tony Bennett encounter and a “do over” if he had the chance.

Finally, Garth Brooks has recorded, to date, 7 of Tony’s songs. Here’s what Garth said about Tony, “He has to be one of my favorite songwriters. He’s a cat who doesn’t care about appearances. He doesn’t care about money. He cares about his children, his wife & his music. That’s neat.”

Don’t miss the inspiration of Tony pursuing his craft without an end in sight… no ulterior motive, and staying true to himself as #1 songs, #1 albums and Grammy nominations manifested. Learn about succeeding in and navigating life on your terms. Molly’s thought for the week: Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something. —Tony Arata