Andy Childs is the electrifying lead singer and guitarist of Sixwire, a band that’s as dynamic as the music they create. With a background steeped in hard rock and country, Andy has become a vital part of the musical fabric in Nashville. When he’s not lighting up the stage, Andy is often paying it forward, particularly through his work with Alice Cooper’s annual Christmas Pudding.
“Being part of this incredible fundraiser is a great way to support Solid Rock’s amazing vision,” says Andy, reflecting on Sixwire’s role as the house band for the star-studded charity concert.
The event benefits the Solid Rock Foundation, Alice Cooper’s non-profit providing youth ages 12-20 with a free outlet to express their artistic abilities.
“We knew we wanted to be part of this when we visited the original Solid Rock facility.”
Andy’s friendship with Alice Cooper is a heartwarming tale of mutual respect and admiration.
“We met around 2011 at various charity events,” he recalls. “Alice and (his wife) Sheryl are the most lovely and generous people we know. Our camaraderie has blossomed into a partnership allowing us to bring a touch of country flair to the Christmas Pudding’s hard rock scene.”
From Memphis to Stardom
Born in Memphis, Andy’s dreams of musical stardom ignited when he picked up a guitar at age six.
“I started strumming professionally at 16,” recounting his early days.
His talent soon caught the eye of RCA Records, where he recorded two albums that featured background vocals from Timothy B. Schmidt of the Eagles.
“Hearing my record on the radio for the first time was amazing.”
Andy opened for legends like Faith Hill and Martina McBride, soaking up invaluable lessons.
“Every musician has a story, and they’re happy to share it. The biggest thing I learned was to live in the moment and enjoy the journey.”
The Birth of Sixwire
The formation of Sixwire was a blend of fate and friendship.
"The other guys were in Lee Greenwood’s band in the early ‘90s. I met them when I was Greenwood’s opening act,” Andy explains.
Collaborating with Steve Mandile, the band’s lead guitarist, they began writing and recording together, leading to the birth of Sixwire and a deal with Warner Brothers Records. Their debut album skyrocketed to the Top 30, featuring hit singles that made waves across country music. Sixwire then transitioned into the television realm, becoming the go-to band for shows like Nashville Star and American Idol's The Next Great American Band.
“Working in live television taught us about being well-prepared,” Andy reflects. “It laid the foundation for who we are today.”
Lights, Camera, Action!
One of the most exciting chapters in Sixwire’s story was their role on ABC’s Nashville.
“When we got the call, I told the producer we weren’t actors. He said, ‘Great, we don’t want actors!’”
Andy remembers and appreciated the down-to-earth approach. Their time on the show was both challenging and rewarding.
“It’s fascinating to watch real actors at their craft. We made lifelong friends, especially with Charles Esten.”
In 2018, Andy produced a remix album of Elvis Presley’s Gospel classics, showcasing his deep-rooted admiration for the King.
“Growing up in Memphis gave me a unique connection to Elvis,” he shares. “I created new arrangements using unreleased vocal takes. It was a dream project.”
Rocking the Sports Scene
Sixwire has also made a name for themselves in the sports world, performing at major events like the Daytona 500 and Super Bowl halftime shows.
“All of us are sports fans, especially when it comes to football. And we're all like brothers hanging out even when we’re not touring.”
A Merry Melange of Music and Family
When it comes to the holidays, Andy and his wife Dawn dive headfirst into festive cheer.
“We love Christmas. My wife puts up at least three trees and makes delicious treats. My New Year’s resolution will be to lose the extra pounds I’ll gain from all of Dawn’s desserts.”
Looking ahead, Andy has big plans for Sixwire.
“We don’t have current television projects, but we continue writing, recording, and touring as much as we can.”
Andy's passion for music shines through in their original song, “What If You Could Change the World,” which he describes as his favorite to perform.
"We take every show seriously, and every one of us works hard to get the music right so the stars we accompany feel at home. It’s very gratifying to have the trust and friendship of artists like Alice Cooper, Billy Gibbons, Vince Gill, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Huey Lewis, and so many other musical greats we’ve had the joy of supporting."
Sixwire is excited to perform at Alice Cooper’s annual Christmas Pudding on December 7th, 2024.
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"Hearing my record on the radio for the first time was an amazing feeling. I've learned to live in the moment and enjoy the journey.”
"It’s gratifying to have the trust and friendship of artists like Alice Cooper, Vince Gill, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Michael McDonald, and so many more."