(Glass Onyon) Truly one of the hardest working people in the music industry, 2011 has been a landmark year for blind recording artist, engineer, producer and inspirational speaker Joey Stuckey. With the release of his latest acclaimed CD 'The Shadow Sound' in February of this year, Stuckey has been hitting the road performing and speaking all over the country – October alone saw Stuckey in Hawaii, Los Angeles and Nashville.
However, October was a landmark month because Joey was honored by a non-profit organization in his hometown of Macon, Georgia where he serves as the official music ambassador. The organization "New Town Macon", a non-profit tasked with revitalizing the downtown area of Macon, presented Joey with a special recognition award for his contribution to his community. Joey has been instrumental in shaping Macon's musical landscape. Stuckey was also recognized for his active role in preparing for Macon's future.
"I'm honored to be recognized for my efforts in promoting the music and history of Macon," says Stuckey. "I look forward to being of service to my community for the rest of my life. I feel like this area, and Macon in particular, has as much musical talent as New York City or Los Angeles. We just have to find a way to make sure the rest of the world knows about it and come together as a community to ensure our musical economy continues to prosper!"
Stuckey's father accepted the award on Joey's behalf, from Greg Dent, a New Town Macon board member. Dent presented the award and said: "As Macon's first official 'Ambassador of Music', Joey is a tireless and enthusiastic promoter of downtown, whose life work advances the city's musical legacy. Joey's business, Shadow Sound Studio on Third Street, brings musicians from around the globe to downtown Macon to record. Several of (Joey's) own recordings have been nominated for Grammys. Joey is a band leader, educator, and promoter of civic activities who leads with a powerful and generous spirit. He has donated his time and talent to area schools and local organizations and recently provided a young boy in hospice care with his wish of recording in Joey's studio. Anyone who knows Joey Stuckey knows that his enthusiasm and love of Macon never waivers."
