With a family tree that runs deep into American soil, country singer/songwriter C.J. Garton‘s story is rooted through his family’s 140+ year Oklahoma farm, his service in our military, and continuing in the footsteps of country music’s legendary artists with his traditional style and craft.
For our celebration of Veterans Week, we caught up with C.J. to honor his service, share his family’s remarkable history and how both inspire his songwriting.
CN: On this Veterans Day and every day, we thank you for your Service to our Country as we are forever in debt to all who serve to protect our Nation and way of life. Can you tell us a little bit about your time serving in the U.S. Navy?
CJ: It was a blast getting to share time with fellow brothers and sisters and help do a small part in protecting our freedoms. Like any job is not always glorious but as a young man I was proud to be there and be a part of it .
CN: You are also a sixth generation rancher in Bristow, OK. What a family legacy! Can you tell us a little bit about your family’s history and the ranch?
CJ: Yeah it’s crazy thinking about the history and time here at the ranch and looking around you can just imagine all the changes it has gone through over the years. It was founded during the Oklahoma land run and we’ve been able to hang onto it though drought, war conflicts and anything else that has come our way. To be a Garton and to have the opportunity to carry on that history, legacy, to our children and family name means a lot.
CN: With such a long family history that goes back into the 1800s, there must be so many stories to tell! Have you turned to those stories for songwriting ideas?
CJ: I have. There are several songs, but the one that stands out the most is “1883” the song that is about our family survival and the true story behind 1883 from the Yellowstone series.
CN: Music can be a cathartic tool for many different reasons. Has music helped you in this way? Has your experience in the Navy provided inspiration in your songwriting?
CJ: Absolutely cheapest therapist I’ve ever had. It has in many ways. Anytime I can get a chance to see life another way or experience it through another’s eyes make me a better writer and honestly a more accurate pen smith.
CN: Can you take us through your songwriting process?
CJ: It’s all feeling and when it hits you no matter where you’re at or what you’re doing stop and write it down, make a voice memo or whatever you gotta do to capture it. That’s how you keep it real and relatable.
CN: With the mix of country music available today, it’s always reassuring to hear a traditional country artist much like yourself. Which artists have influenced you both personally and as an artist?
CJ: My dad, Keith Whitely, Randy Travis, Merle Haggard, Waylon, Willie, & Johnny Cash of course, but a lot of writers too like John Prine, Townes Van Zant. The more I discover music and its history the more influences I have. Never stop frowning and be willing to learn and be adventurous.
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be?
CJ: Right now I’d say Willie Nelson. If he’d have me
CN: Do you remember the first concert you ever attended?
CJ: No, but they got a pic of me on the front page of the Tulsa World proving I was there . Other than that I grew up with music all around me so everyday was a concert in my head.
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
CJ: Hopeful…… I don’t give up. I want the positive side of life to envelop me and I want to bleed that wherever I go and hope it is contagious
CN: As 2022 inches towards its close, what do you have planned for the rest of the year?
CJ: Family, wrapping up radio tour in Texas and some deer hunting with some brother and sister on the ole G – Bar ranch back home.
Mark your calendars!
C.J. Garton will be taking over our Instagram
TOMORROW – Saturday, November 12th
LIVE from VetFest at the Plaza at Toyota Music Factory!
Be sure to tune in!
For more information on CJ Garton, visit his website at cjgarton.com and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.