Rascal Flatts Celebrates 10 Years of Hits

Many artists would rightfully open up a bottle of bubbly and congratulate themselves on producing ten years of hit songs, sold out tours, and generous album sales. Rascal Flatts certainly got the celebration started, and they invited all 77 songwriters who have written on the trio’s albums.

The shindig took place at the Musician’s Hall of Fame in Nashville last night, where songwriters and industry execs gathered to hear songwriters like Marcus Hummon, Jeff Hanna, Neil Thrasher, and Steve Bogard perform some of Rascal Flatts' top songs.

Rascal Flatts had a front row seat for the performances, and took a moment to thank the writers for their gift of song. Joe Don said, “We feel like we are one of the luckiest bands in the world, and record in the best studios in the world, and when we create, we get to work with some of the best songwriters the world has to offer right here in Nashville.” Gary Levox added, “We cannot thank you enough for giving an unknown band like ourselves in 1999 the chance to cut hit music. That was kind of unheard of.” Plaques were created for every songwriter to commemorate their contributions to Rascal Flatts’ success.

As a show of loyalty to these songwriters, the trio also offered each writer the chance to pitch a new song for the band's next album.

• published February 4, 2010