Garrett Miles - Country Singer - Phenix City, AL www.garrettmiles.com
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BIOGRAPHY
 
Garrett Miles was born December 23, 1988, in Columbus, Georgia, and is the son of Mike and Jan Miles. His grandparents are Larry and Patricia Sinquefield, Ruth Miles Gullatte and the late Billy Miles.

Garrett is legally blind; however, he has a unique perception of life and the world around him, due to a positive influence from his devoted parents and caring sister, Taylor. He sings with conviction a song written by his mother, "Seeing Through the Eyes of the Lord." This is his personal testimony of tackling blindness with faith in the Word of God, perseverance and a genuine trust in the Lord. Thousands have been blessed by his rendition of these beautiful lyrics.

A very special teacher, Mary Rentz, was Garrett’s seeing eyes through the years and was instrumental in helping him graduate from high school with honors.

He is now a sophomore in college and preparing himself for life. He is making it on his own and says it feels good to be independent and self-reliant. All the new learning technology for the blind has made his pursuit of an education much easier and attainable. Unlike most young singing artists who seek an education to fall back on should they fail to achieve their musical goals, Garrett said his pursuit of knowledge is merely an effort to enhance his musical career. "I don’t plan to fail," he said.

Garrett was tapping his hands and feet in perfect symphony with the beat of the music before he learned to walk or talk. He has an uncanny ability to memorize and has hundreds of gospel and country song lyrics etched in his memory. When he is not studying for college, he enjoys listening to gospel and country songs. He teaches himself how to play them by listening and focusing on the music.

When Garrett was about 6 years old, his favorite singer was Elvis Presley, and he would  hit the stage often in his white sequined suit and painted on sideburns. Both of his grandfathers instilled a love of country music in him; especially that of old-timers such as Hank Williams, Sr., Johnny Cash, George Jones, and Willie Nelson. Because he loves singing and listening to traditional country, some people say he is an old soul in a young body. Garrett said, "I want to bring that passion the old-timers had back to country music."

When Garrett was a very young child, he told his parents he was going to move to Nashville as soon as he graduated from high school and become a country music singer. As time moved on, his dream of "making it big" has not diminished in the least; in fact, singing on the Grand Ole Opry is the height of his ambition. He plays guitar and piano. He astounds some professional musicians with his knowledge of and keen ear for music.

When Garrett was only 12 years old, he cut a CD in Nashville. His voice changed and he soon outgrew that CD. He cut another album when he was about 14. His voice changed and he outgrew that one, as well. Now that he is 20 and his voice has settled to a deep, rich, bass sound, he is getting geared up to cut a new gospel or country CD.

Garrett gained recognition around the country singing Hank Williams, Sr’s songs. He was invited to sing at the Hank Williams Festival in Montgomery, Alabama, when he was 14. There he met Mr. Jimmy Porter, one of the last living musicians in Hank’s original band. He had not intended to play music again but came out of retirement to play with Garrett. He bought a new steel guitar and accompanied Garrett on several occasions. He passed away in December of 2007, at 79. and left a void in Garrett’s life no man can fill. "He was a special friend and had a great influence on my life. We emailed and spoke on the phone often. I miss him so much." Garrett said.

Tom Staton, lead singer with the Georgia Gents Country Band, traveled the country in the 70’s and 80’s and played for many big singers. He met Garrett after his retirement from music and was impressed with his talent. He has mentored Garrett and become a very special friend and support in his life and career. He attends almost every concert, contest, or engagement Garrett is involved in; they share a special bond and a love for the traditional country music.

A big fan of Garrett’s is Governor Bob Riley of Alabama. He performed for him at the 2006 Republican Convention and twice at the Capitol in 2004 and 2005. Governor Riley noticed that both he and Garrett love to wear boots. Garrett sang for the Governor and Mrs. Riley in 2008 at the Governors' mansion.

Garrett received from the Governor’s office an invitation to sing for the troops in Washington, D.C. at Walter Reed Hospital. This trip was one of the highlights of his singing career. Not only did he bless the troops, but they blessed him, also. Garrett said, "It was indeed a pleasure to sing for the men who fight for our freedom." Garrett also received a proclamation from the Mayor of Phenix City, Alabama.

Garrett’s voice began to change when he was about 16 and he began to get the attention of many important and popular singers on the Country Music circuit. He entered contests to open for different artists and was called back later for a repeat performance because they liked his voice and style.


Garrett Miles with his Grandfather
& George Jones
 
Some of the great country music artists he has opened for include: Tracy Lawrence, George Jones, BJ Thomas, Billy Joe Royal, Blake Shelton, Sammy Kershaw, Ray Price, Boots Randolph, and The Platters. He gets good advice and encouragement from these country singers and gains much experience for future performances.

Garrett appears to be on the edge of getting that one powerful break he needs to reach his important goal of cutting his first big hit that will eventually lead to his dream of singing on The Grand Ole Opry. Garrett sings at different churches and recently said, "My aim in life is to honor God in my music in appreciation for the talent he has given me."

 
   
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