BIGG VINNY Interview
By Big Al Weekley for Country Music News International Magazine & Radio Show
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He was born in a rural Middle Tennessee town to a young mother, who split from his biological father early on and remarried, moving Vinny and his 2 siblings into a home, that would turn out to be a living nightmare.
His childhood was far from picture-perfect. Vinny faced daily battles against the demons of his stepfather, who was physically and mentally abusive. Vinny’s path seemed destined for darkness. But little did he know that these early struggles would be the fuel on his journey to greatness.
At just 14 years old, he made the unthinkable, yet courageous decision to leave his abusive living environment behind and embrace the uncertainty of homelessness. Vinny refused to let his circumstances define him. Getting a job washing trucks to support himself, graduating high school and later becoming the general manager at the local Sonic Drive-In.
He began thinking about leaving the small town he grew up in. Music and melodies had always coursed through Vinny’s veins, an inheritance from his phenomenal guitar-wielding father, who graced the stage as a touring musician for many major artist!
Inspired by his dad’s legacy, Vinny set his sights on moving to Nashville, the epicenter of the country music industry. Everyone knows that Nashville is a city where dreams are born and legends are made. But it’s also a city where there is a plethora of talent and you have to have the “it” factor to make it.
Vinny faced a unique challenge—a challenge that came in the form of his weight. Clocking in at a hefty 400 pounds, the naysayers couldn’t resist spewing their doubts: “You’re too fat to make it in the music industry!” But Vinny, with his overwhelming self confidence and a smirk on his face, responded with a resounding “Watch me!”
Within a few months of being in the city where hopes + dreams are strummed on six-strings, Vinny took the stage any chance he could, ready to conquer the world. Writing songs day and night he would go on to get a publishing deal shortly after.
But the birth of the band Trailer Choir—a collaboration with two fellow musicians, marked the dawn of a new chapter for Vinny. The Trailer Choir stood out in part to the 400lb, overall wearing, singer who did the worm on stage and break danced to every song. The band’s journey began with an invitation to join the legendary Toby Keith on a major tour, which paved the way for a record deal.
Vinny founded Music with a Mission, a non-profit organization that strives to raise awareness of the vital role music programs play in schools.
His creative spirit continues to soar as he pens melodies for renowned artists like Canaan Smith, Montgomery Gentry, and the band Hinder, just to name a few.
Vinny’s creativity knows no bounds, together with his bandmate Marc “Butter” Fortney, crafted a poignant song which turned into a children’s book titled “The Bully,” spreading a message of compassion and kindness. to the youngest of readers.
Recently Vinny entered the podcast realm providing a relatable voice for those seeking guidance, motivation, and a good dose of laughter along the way as a co-host on “The Refined Life Podcast” alongside friends Jared Blake and Jeff Suter.
Vinny’s also taken a leap into the business world, as an investor in The Buffalo River Resort. Creating a place for others to experience the joy of nature and relaxation.
Currently, you can find Vinny gracing the stage, captivating audiences with his magnetic performance in the new Shriners Nashville Variety Show or traveling the country speaking, singing, and playing shows, touring with the Nashville Cartel.
Vinny has taken his experiences and turned them into a powerful message that resonate with people from all walks of life. He continues to inspire others to embrace life’s challenges head-on, with a smile on your face and a song in your heart.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, someone struggling to overcome their own battles, or simply a lover of good music and heartfelt stories, let Vinny’s journey be a reminder that you are capable of achieving even the wildest of dreams!