Uncle Tim

Tim Russell was born and raised on a Quarter Horse and cattle ranch near Okemah, Oklahoma, and his musical roots run deep in the Oklahoma soil. Tim’s dad, a world-class tenor and Western Oklahoma troubadour in the 1930’s, “sang for his supper” before touring the world with the Army Air Corps. Choir before WWII. His mother grew up in Nashville and danced on the stage of the Ryman Auditorium before the Grand Ole Opry existed. Their musical influence trickled down to their children and with love and encouragement spawned another generation of musicians and performers. They presented Tim with his first drum kit at age 5 and stood by with fingers in ears for two years until his skills were honed enough for him to play his first gig as a professional musician at age 7. He played in a band formed by his older brother and guitarist, Keith.

From that moment on, the entertainment fire burned inside him. Tim went on to play in many bands during high school and young adulthood. He was a successful radio announcer during the 80’s and at age 21, was recognized as the youngest major market program director in the U. S. The desire to perform took over Tim’s life in 1990 and he decided to dedicate his life to the industry he loved. He perfected his skills as a lead guitarist and front man and created Way Out West, a popular regional and national country act. Way Out West toured the United States on the “A” club circuit for seven years playing shows from Nashville to L. A. and from Dallas to Calgary Canada. During that period Tim added yet another instrument, the bass guitar, to his list of instrumental skills.

Way Out West recorded two critically acclaimed albums and won many awards including the “Terry Award” for Best Vocal Group in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. (A tall feat considering the band hailed from Oklahoma.) After seven years of constant touring with Way Out West, Tim joined forces with country artist Ty England in 2003. From then until 2006, Tim played over 200 shows with England in venues all around the U. S. and completed a USO tour entertaining troops in South Korea.

Tim's future in the entertainment industry has yet to peak. He co-wrote and produced eight songs on the new album from Ty England including the Texas Music Chart #1 single “Texans Hold’em”, and two other singles “Redneck Anthem” and “The Perfect Girl” which was also a top ten hit for England.

Tim is now back with Shawna, playing bass and managing her on the road. He co-wrote and produced her upcoming album.