Barry Pugh

Anita Kerr Barry Pugh

Anita Kerr, a softly spoken, petite lady from Memphis, Tennessee is a window into history. What this gifted and disciplined artist achieved in the man's world that was Nashville in the 50's, and her West Coast ascent in the 60's, is the great untold story of popular music. Her career is unique, and an inspiration to women and musicians in general. She never sought the limelight and razzmatazz of show business, and throughout her life was true to her word. Imagine being gifted with outstanding musical talent; perfect pitch; arranging for the hierarchy of show business greats; conducting the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and composing the music for Warner's best-selling mood music of all time, under the banner of the San Sebastian Strings. You will read in detail how this low profile, elegant and humble individual was able to achieve considerable career accolades, which included her singers beating the Beatles (when they were at the height of their powers) in the 1965 Grammys. Her string of successes in many different styles did not happen by chance. She is regarded by some as one of the most talented and professionally accomplished women in popular music history, and one of the great underrated talents in the harmony pantheon. Her arrangements are expert, the execution impeccable, and her place in Nashville folklore is virtually a book in itself. Yet she barely gets a mention in most music reference books!