On October 18 Florida native, Johnny Bulford played at the Oviedo Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Benefit Concert hosted by the American Cancer Society. Bulford not only brought a crowd from all over Florida, he came in tow with a set packed with incredible songs. From his No. 1 single, to his older tunes and his newer hits. Bulford, to those who know Johnny, is already a star through his song writing but to those who may be unfamiliar with him may unknowingly be familiar with some of his great work. Heard of Lee Brice’s “Woman Like You” or Chris Young’s “Flashlight” or latest single “Lonely Eyes”? All are written by Bulford..
Bulford’s set list started off with “Tonight Starts Now” and about 5 songs in, Bulford introduced the band and made a joke about the show being sponsored by Honey Tea, something he needed to keep his pipes coated after a long trip including a stop in New Orleans. Soon after Bulford brought it down to an acoustic rendition of “Flashlight”. One reason for slowing it down, Bulford joked, was to give his pregnant sister/band mate Ally, a break to relieve herself. “Flashlight” was actually Bulford’s first cut as a songwriter and for those a part of Young Country will know it well from CY’s 3rd studio album “Neon”.
Bulford shared that he wrote “How Could I Not” when he was about 18/19 years old. This song displays that it is no secret that Bulford is an incredibly talented song writer. Bulford’s masterfully written lyrics are such a far cry from the “bro-country” that is invading the country airwaves right now!
He brought a variety of music throughout his set of love and life including “If I Had A Boat” a song being cut by Jon Pardi. This tune Bulford wrote about growing up on the lake without a vessel to enjoy the lake life. One of my personal favorite’s of the day was “On My Way to You”. Chris Young expressed interest in cutting this gorgeous song one day. Bulford even sang a few bars in Young’s deep voice which got the crowd going! A catchy tune with a play on words was most definitely “Lighter Fluid”, one that I hope could be Bulford’s breakout cut as an artist himself. He is so much more than a songwriter, Bulford truly brings his skill as a singer to the table!
Bulford rounded out his set with Number 1 Single (as a writer), “Woman Like You” and his current single on the radio “Lonely Eyes”, both clear examples of Bulford’s talent as a wordsmith. The set was completed with “When I Make It” and I know I, along with many others are standing behind Bulford and the knowledge of his talents, cheering and waiting for the recognition that he deserves. If you haven’t please request Lonely Eyes on your local radio station because as Johnny joked, “The more I hear it that means I’m making money.. Yay!”
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