Randy Travis's discography has sold over 25 million copies around the world. He has won seven Grammys, eleven CMAs, and ten ACMs. His induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame took place that same year (2016).
Mary, Randy's wife, updated me on his condition after he suffered a devastating stroke in 2013. Aphasia, a language disorder caused by damage to the brain, was confirmed as his diagnosis.
Amazing vocalist Travis is currently struggling with his ability to express himself. Mary reflected on the tributes from fellow country music performers and said, "It means a lot to him."
To have the knowledge that "I mean, just to know that he made the music that he made and that it stands the test of time." Randy beamed and nodded at Mary's comments.
"And then to have tributes to you when you can't sing the music, but somebody else will come in, step in for you, and some of the great artists that do step in, you know, that say, 'This is for you,' that's pretty cool," she continued.
In 1959, Travis was born in Marshville, North Carolina, where his father taught him to play guitar. Travis moved to Nashville after finishing high school in order to pursue a career in music.
In 1985, Travis was signed to the Warner Bros. Records label. "Storms of Life," his first album, was successful. Tracks like "1982," "On the Other Hand," and "Diggin' Up Bones" became radio staples from the album.
Travis had a string of hit albums during the '80s and '90s. Billboard country radio played "Always and Forever," "No Defense," and "Full Circle" nonstop.