Conversations with Missy: John Berry "Ugly Chrismas Sweater Edition"
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John Berry Lights Up the Holidays: Inside His 29th Annual Christmas Tour & Heartfelt Interview
John Berry grew up outside Atlanta, Georgia, soaking in the sounds of AM radio, everything from country to Top 40, while tinkering in his dad's garage. Born on September 14, 1959, in Aiken, South Carolina, he picked up the guitar at 12, drawing inspiration from folks like John Denver and James Taylor. By his early 20s, after a rough patch that included a motorcycle wreck and some soul-searching, Berry started gigging at college spots in Athens. He cut a couple of independent albums before signing with Liberty Records in 1993, and just like that, he was on the road opening for Reba McEntire and Tanya Tucker. That debut record kicked off a string of hits, cementing his spot in the '90s country scene with that rich, soulful tenor fans still talk about.
Berry's breakout came fast with "Your Love Amazes Me," which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 1994 and pushed his self-titled album to platinum status. He racked up 19 chart entries overall, including six more Top 10s like "Standing on the Edge of Goodbye," "Change My Mind," and "She's Taken a Shine." Over the years, John has dropped more than 20 studio albums, snagged a Grammy in 1996 for a gospel project and an Emmy recently for a George Jones tribute special. Even after throat cancer sidelined him for a bit, Berry bounced back stronger, blending country with pop edges and heartfelt ballads. Married to Robin, who often sings by his side, for over 25 years now, he lives here in Tennessee an enjoys spending time with his kids and grandkids whenever he can.
Berry keeps things real with fresh releases like his faith-driven album Find My Joy, full of hymns that hit home after all he has been through. But it' is the holidays that really light him up. Berry's Christmas shows have been a tradition since the mid-'90s, mixing his classics with carols that leave crowds humming long after the lights come up. That first holiday record back in '95 set the stage, and he's never looked back.
This year marks the 29th Annual Christmas With John Berry Tour, kicking off November 28 at The Eagle in Sugar Hill, Georgia, and rolling through spots like Livingston, Tennessee on December 2, Aiken, South Carolina on the 3rd, and more. 13 dates locked in so far, with others coming. Expect the usual magic: "O Holy Night" that will give you chills, "Little Drummer Boy," "Mary, Did You Know," and a few of his hits woven in, all shared with that easy warmth he is famous for. Berry's out there celebrating the season's joy, often with Robin harmonizing alongside, turning theaters into something like family gatherings.
If you are gearing up for the tour, check out our on-camera chat with John in the video above, it is a laid-back dive into what makes these shows tick, from picking songs that stir the heart to the little moments that keep him coming back after nearly 30 years. Get the full scoop now and be sure to snag those tickets. Do not forget to put on your favorite Ugly Christmas Sweater. ~Missy
About Missy Wolf
Co-Founder, Editor, Journalist & Vice President of the American Country Music AssociationFrom an early age I knew music and entertainment were in my blood. I have always been enamored with the idea of being in this industry, though I never wanted to be a front and center "Star". Taking the audience behind the scenes for up close conversations with the artists they love is where I want to be. Life in lyrics has always been my style, so as my favorite country artist Wade Hayes sings, I am living my life and chasing my dreams! Conducting interviews, meeting talented people and sharing stories and adventure are my passion. My new favorite hashtag is #iaskyouanswer, so stay tuned for more interviews, articles and adventures!
