Cliff Dorsey is probably one of this new generation of Country Music artists most prolific and talented. I was happy to discover him last week and do not hesitate a second to decide to review his production. So I will be glad to publish this interview on my next printed COUNTRY MUSIC MAG (France) 88th issue on support of his EPs and albums reviews.

CLIFF DORSEY

Country Music Mag : you probably saw what Country Music became in the USA since more than a decade: a big mix between, Pop, Rock and Hip-hop so what leads you to make (neo) traditional Country?

Cliff Dorsey : It’s the type of music that is in my soul.  It is a sound I wake up with whether it’s a classic song or one that hasn’t been written yet. My parents are in their 70’s and 60’s in age and my Dad’s favorite artist is Johnny Cash. The area of Florida I grew up in the people from there, wear square toe boots, wrangler jeans and pearl snap shirts. I’ve always loved the steel guitar and fiddle. Country songs that paint a picture in your imagination as you listen are what I love and for me that’s (neo) traditional Country. 

Country Music Mag : do you think (as I began to think myself) that real and raw country music seems to be back and more popular these last years?

Cliff Dorsey : I would like to think so because recently there is room for all of types. I do think that songs/artists that reflect influences from the current top 40 will get that music industry push. I am aware music is a business too and the most fan capturing sound (the one most Pop) gets that broad audience which makes it cross over or chart. But some fans just love what they love and now have more control to share with the world without influence from the industry. 

Country Music Mag : who are your main influences and artists you admire the most? And why?

Cliff Dorsey : Sturgill Simpson and Tyler Childers for their album production and overall creativity. Chris Stapleton for his writing, stage presence but most of all how humble and down to earth he seems to live. George Strait for his vocal delivery and style of sound. It’s awesome. I have always been amazed with him being able to stand still and just sing the song genuinely. 

Country Music Mag : a few words about Black Sheep Label Group?

Cliff Dorsey : We are just getting started, I have a incredible team that believes in the music and me as a person. We work to make sure everything is the very best we can do also by treating people with respect while doing it. Black Sheep Label Group loves music and loves country music. There is a bright future for the folks there. 

Country Music Mag : what are your hope and dreams in the future?

Cliff Dorsey : My hopes are to write songs that people can relate to. Travel to places I’ve never been and play those songs for those people and some new people. I want to make time to hear those stories, who knows it might create another song. That’s my dream that I’m working towards. I help with charities and disaster relief whenever I can.  My team and I believe that’s what music is for connecting people to do good. 

Country Music Mag : my last questions are about France.What are the images you get in mind from France, even if it is, as often, clichés ?

Cliff Dorsey : I have not been, I imagine amazing fresh food. Beautiful gardens taken care of beautiful people who work very hard and take pride in what they do. 

Country Music Mag : would you like to play in France in one of our rare country music summer festivals?

Cliff Dorsey : I would love to play in France or the surrounding area. I think I would learn a lot from the experience. It would be amazing sharing my songs and stories while listening to others. I would want to walk around with a translator so I could talk and listen to everyone I meet that’s willing to share with me.