by Jordyn Smith
Clayton Gardner is set to make his return to Lakeside Icehouse on Saturday September 26. Gardner, a native of Fort Worth, is a local favorite around BCS, regularly attending Aggie athletic events and playing venues around town.
Like many other artists, Clayton found his love for music in college. One day he picked up a guitar in his dorm room at Texas A&M and stumbled upon his talent. Crediting George Strait and Keith Whitley as two of his main influences, Gardner brings his own style to the Texas country genre. His ability to stay true to his roots while pushing the boundaries has helped him carve out his own name in the Texas music scene.
Early in his career, Gardner had many opportunities to sit in and co-write with Texas Country elites like Josh Abbott, Wade Bowen, Aaron Watson, and more. Co-writing with these veteran artists allowed Gardner to grow his writing abilities. The end result? A well-versed writer that connects well with his audience, using his own style.
Clayton’s debut EP “Here to Stay” climbed to the top 20 iTunes country albums chart. Along with the album, his singles “Settle Down” and “Happy Ending” each earned a Top 20 spot. In October of 2013, Gardner released his second album “Lucky 7.” Once again, it reached a top 20 spot on the iTunes. Produced by Mack Damon, a Grammy-nominated producer, Gardner was able to mature his sound and expand his audience. On “Lucky 7” Clayton scored two more Top 20 iTunes country singles with “Something About You” and “Table For Two.” “Table for Two” has become a fan favorite; it has also become a staple at many weddings.
One of Clayton’s best qualities is his drive and ability to grow as an artist. In March of 2015 he released “Under The Lights,” produced by Aaron Eshuis. In the few months that it has been out, it has become his best-selling album. The record landed Clayton a Top 10 hit on Texas radio with “Buy You a Drink.” “Under The Lights” once again allows Clayton to grow as an artist while still keeping his sound true to himself.
Make sure you get yourself out to Lakeside Icehouse to see Clayton Gardner on September 26.
