10/08/2026
If you’re a Texas music fan, chances are you know Keith Gattis’ songwriting. He penned songs including “El Cerrito Place,” “I Got a Car,” and “What Wh***ey Does,” bringing a gift for poignant storytelling and a distinctive sound to country music. Born in Georgetown, Texas, Gattis first headed to Nashville to pursue his music career, eventually carving out a reputation as both an accomplished songwriter and a gifted guitarist and producer.
His 2005 album Big City Blues, inspired by his time in California, became a touchstone for artists drawn to his independent sound. “El Cerrito Place” found a particularly lasting life when Charlie Robison recorded it, followed by Kenny Chesney. As I shared in the first Texas Songbook post, Robison’s version remains one of my all-time favorite songs. Beyond his own recordings, Gattis helped shape the sound of artists including Wade Bowen and Randy Houser, leaving an indelible mark on Texas and country music through his songwriting, musicianship, and production.
