by Brent Frazier
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- After visiting the CMA Fest back in 2006 a veteran and musician fell in love with Music City and never left. On Wednesday he made his Music City debut at the Exit/In.
26-year-old Sal Gonzalez could tell stories about how he joined the military at age 18, or about how he dodged death overseas, but he'd rather sing to you.
Singer-Songwriters are pretty common in Music City, but Sal Gonzalez is not your average musician. He's an Iraq war veteran and an amputee. While serving in Iraq Sal experienced a great number of things that influenced his music, one of those being the death of his Lieutenant. He keeps the boots of his former Lieutenant on stage with him when he performs.
But Gonzalez said he isn't looking for pity. He's hopeful his county music career will take off and with a handful of music label heads and talent-booking agents in the crowd Wednesday there is a pretty good chance for him.
Sal Gonzalez is also using his music to help bring exposure to the group "Not Alone". It's a not-for-profit that encourages soldiers suffering from PTSD to get help.
email: bfrazier@newschannel5.com
