TEN PENNY GYPSY  Arkansas Country Music Awards nominee 

Arkansas singer/songwriters Justin Patterson and Laura Lynn Danley had been writing and performing separately as solo artists for years when they decided to form the Folk/Americana duo Ten Penny Gypsy in 2017. That decision changed their fortunes immediately, and put their musical careers onto a new and exciting trajectory.

In 2018, Ten Penny Gypsy received three nominations for the inaugural Arkansas Country Music Awards: "Album of the Year," "Americana Artist of the Year," and "Vocal Group of the Year." The group garnered additional Arkansas CMA nominations for "Americana Artist of the Year" in 2019 and 2021, and for "Vocal Group of the Year" in 2019.

In 2020, Ten Penny Gypsy released their second full-length album, "Fugitive Heart," a collection of original songs once again produced by renowned multi-instrumentalist Anthony Crawford. The album also prominently features the talents of two-time Arkansas CMA nominee Buddy Case (Guitarist of the Year).

"Fugitive Heart" is an eclectic, upbeat album combining Americana and Country/Blues sounds, that thematically explores the uncertainties of separation.

"There is no doubt these songs reflect the mood of 2020," says Justin Patterson, writer of seven of the album's tracks. "Because of the pandemic, people have been separated from their jobs, their loved ones, and everything else. Yet, there is an underlying optimism on this album that is very relatable to listeners."

The appeal of "Fugitive Heart" is broad. It has spawned a #1 song on the iTunes Country Sales chart in South Africa (Your True You), and videos (Lonesome No More, Making Headway) that have medalled at numerous international film festivals.

The divergent songwriting styles of Justin Patterson and Laura Lynn Danley have certainly blended into an acclaimed sound in a relatively short period of time.

"Justin Patterson reminds me of what would happen if James Taylor and Gordon Lightfoot had a love child," muses David Hughes, a promoter with Unknown Legends Artists. "He writes insightful, heartfelt, and intelligent lyrics. He is a refreshing voice and talented writer."

"Laura is very reminiscent of Tammy Wynette or Joni Mitchell," says Anthony Crawford, producer of both Ten Penny Gypsy albums. "She has that intriguing and infectious personality, with a certain vulnerability that draws you in." 

Crawford's opinions carry weight. He's a globally respected veteran of the music industry, having recorded and performed with such musical icons as Neil Young (The Shocking Pinks and International Harvesters), Steve Winwood, and Dwight Yoakam. 

"Their songs and everything they do is at a high level of professionalism," Crawford continues. "Justin is a thoughtful lyricist and a very proficient guitarist. Laura really challenged herself on 'Fugitive Heart.'  She brought so much to the table as a singer. They make a great team."

Look for "Fugitive Heart" and the entire Ten Penny Gypsy catalog on all streaming services, and in local retail music stores around the country.