Tom Kimmel is one of those rare songwriters with a double gift. He not only has the ability to create songs that some of the all-time musical greats have recorded but also has the talent to record definitive versions of those same songs himself.

Since moving to Nashville from Alabama in 1977, Tom has worn the hats of songwriter and recording artist with equal success. In the 80’s, Tom released several rock albums on Polygram Records working with legendary producers Bill Szymczyk (The Eagles, The Who) and Neil Dorfsman (Dire Straits, Sting). Tom also has the distinction of having starred in his own video on MTV although it’s encouraging to note that since then both Tom’s fashion choices and hairstyle have managed to stay as relevant as his songwriting.

To give you a sense of Tom’s skill as a songwriter, it only takes a partial listing of artists who’ve recorded his songs. The list begins with Levon Helm (of The Band) and continues through Johnny Cash, Joe Cocker, Linda Rondstat, Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, Randy Travis and Shawn Colvin.

His songs have also ended up in movies including “Twins,” “Runaway Bride” & “Serendipity” and TV shows including “Captain Kangaroo” and “Touched By An Angel.” In a few months, Tom will be releasing an album containing the best of these film and TV songs. The album will be a combination of original versions and brand new recordings of songs that have previously only existed as covers by other artists.

Finally, once you’ve heard Tom’s lyrics, it will come as no surprise that Tom has also recently released a book of poetry called The Sweetest and the Meanest that is a natural and inspiring outgrowth of his songwriting talent.

To hear some of Tom’s music, click here.