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The Boys and Me: My Life in the Country Music Supergroup Sawyer Brown
The Boys and Me is the behind-the-scenes, untold story of front man and lead singer Mark Miller and his band—country music icons Sawyer Brown!
Before The Voice and American Idol, there was Star Search with Ed McMahon. In the first season, an eclectic and charismatic country-rock band called Sawyer Brown appeared on the show, taking America by storm. From ignored underdogs in Nashville to overnight rock stars from LA to New York, they swept the competition and won. Since 1984, “the boys” legendary live shows, along with their relentless drive to stay true to themselves, have captivated faithful fans around the world.
As front man and lead singer of the band, Mark Miller’s rise to fame wasn’t exactly the path he envisioned for himself. After losing his father, Mark was raised by his mom whose solid faith and strong work ethic helped guide and shape him and his brother, Frank. With his sights set on playing pro basketball, Mark never dreamed of becoming an entertainer, especially considering he was terrified to stand on a stage. But God had a different plan.
Now, forty years later, Sawyer Brown has eighteen studio albums to their name, multiple No. 1 singles, fifty-plus songs charting on the Billboard Hot Country Songs, and legendary award-winning videos. And they have no plans of stopping any time soon. The band’s longevity is a testament to their strong songwriting, high-energy performances, and hard work.
This is the behind-the-scenes, untold story of Mark Miller and “the boys”—country music icons Sawyer Brown!
Before The Voice and American Idol, there was Star Search with Ed McMahon. In the first season, an eclectic and charismatic country-rock band called Sawyer Brown appeared on the show, taking America by storm. From ignored underdogs in Nashville to overnight rock stars from LA to New York, they swept the competition and won. Since 1984, “the boys” legendary live shows, along with their relentless drive to stay true to themselves, have captivated faithful fans around the world.
As front man and lead singer of the band, Mark Miller’s rise to fame wasn’t exactly the path he envisioned for himself. After losing his father, Mark was raised by his mom whose solid faith and strong work ethic helped guide and shape him and his brother, Frank. With his sights set on playing pro basketball, Mark never dreamed of becoming an entertainer, especially considering he was terrified to stand on a stage. But God had a different plan.
Now, forty years later, Sawyer Brown has eighteen studio albums to their name, multiple No. 1 singles, fifty-plus songs charting on the Billboard Hot Country Songs, and legendary award-winning videos. And they have no plans of stopping any time soon. The band’s longevity is a testament to their strong songwriting, high-energy performances, and hard work.
This is the behind-the-scenes, untold story of Mark Miller and “the boys”—country music icons Sawyer Brown!
- GenresMemoirMusicNonfiction
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2024
22 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 22, 2024
I had a like/dislike relationship with Mark's book. Although Mark has accomplished a lot and has a lot to brag about, I would have liked to have read more about his and his bands struggles, in addition to their successes. Most people cannot even cross the street without tripping into a pothole and getting hit by a bus in the process, on almost a daily basis. Not that I wanted a bunch of negative stuff, just some additional in-depth realistic stories from time to time would have been nice. It was fun to learn about the history of Sawyer Brown and its members. Since I listened to the book on audio, Mark's voice was easy on the ears too.
There were some life lessons in the book. Work hard, play hard, and raise your kids right. But I did not like the lying to get on the Disney's ski team story. I do not quite understand Mark wanting to honor his mom and God by not drinking, but does not honor her/Him when he lies. But because the lies work out for him, it is something to boast about?
Overall, the book is probably three stars, but because Mark Miller is such a cool cat, I'll give it four stars.
There were some life lessons in the book. Work hard, play hard, and raise your kids right. But I did not like the lying to get on the Disney's ski team story. I do not quite understand Mark wanting to honor his mom and God by not drinking, but does not honor her/Him when he lies. But because the lies work out for him, it is something to boast about?
Overall, the book is probably three stars, but because Mark Miller is such a cool cat, I'll give it four stars.
April 21, 2024
I was never a huge fan of the band called Sawyer Brown, but I knew of their bigger hits. I heard author/lead singer Mark Miller interviewed on the Bobby Bones Show last month so I decided to order his autobiography. It was an okay read. I felt like Mark enjoyed speaking about himself, and was into his own glory a bit too much. There were some interesting stories about the country music world back in the 90’s and early 2000’s.
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March 20, 2024I have been a fan of Sawyer Brown ever since my husband & I saw them open for Alabama (We didn't watch "Star Search"). I was blown away by their music, but mostly by the frontman, Mark Miller. I'll never forget seeing this vision in spandex pants, hot pink tux jacket (with tails), and fedora, leaping and dancing on the stage - even leaping off an amp - all through the set. The next day we went out & bought their albums. We've been hooked ever since.
That said, when I learned that Mr. Miller was writing a book, I knew I had to read it.
I was NOT disappointed.
When reading autobiographies, I try to hear the voice, and his came through loud and clear, as did his personality. Some artists will "humble-brag" (Ace Frehley comes to mind) or are a little self-deprecating (the ever-sweet Peter Frampton). Mark simply says things as they are. He's clear on his strengths and knows his faults, and isn't afraid to point out either.
I particularly loved how he talked about his Faith. It wasn't heavy-handed, Bible-thumping, holy-rolling. Once again, he simply says things as they are.
This is not to say that the book wasn't immensely entertaining. He knows how to tell a story and sometimes writes exactly as if he were speaking out loud. (He actually used, "Ruh-Roh"!) He talks a lot about the music industry without falling into "tech talk" or jargon. He drops names but will withhold a name if the story doesn't shine that person in a very good light.
If you love the music of Sawyer Brown (and what's not to like), like musical autobiographies, or just like to peek behind the industry curtain, I strongly recommend this book.
Then, go and listen to their brand-new album, "Desperado Troubadours".
That said, when I learned that Mr. Miller was writing a book, I knew I had to read it.
I was NOT disappointed.
When reading autobiographies, I try to hear the voice, and his came through loud and clear, as did his personality. Some artists will "humble-brag" (Ace Frehley comes to mind) or are a little self-deprecating (the ever-sweet Peter Frampton). Mark simply says things as they are. He's clear on his strengths and knows his faults, and isn't afraid to point out either.
I particularly loved how he talked about his Faith. It wasn't heavy-handed, Bible-thumping, holy-rolling. Once again, he simply says things as they are.
This is not to say that the book wasn't immensely entertaining. He knows how to tell a story and sometimes writes exactly as if he were speaking out loud. (He actually used, "Ruh-Roh"!) He talks a lot about the music industry without falling into "tech talk" or jargon. He drops names but will withhold a name if the story doesn't shine that person in a very good light.
If you love the music of Sawyer Brown (and what's not to like), like musical autobiographies, or just like to peek behind the industry curtain, I strongly recommend this book.
Then, go and listen to their brand-new album, "Desperado Troubadours".
February 13, 2024
love this band!
I fell in love with Sawyer Brown in 1988 in VIncennes Indiana. I raised my kids rocking out to SB. I thought I knew everything about the band until I read this book. I had an admiration and respect for Mark Miller my entire adulthood but this book raised that bar a whole new level! I love that he puts God then family then career in that order! In a world gone crazy it’s so reassuring to see there are still good people in the world. May God continue to bless Sawyer Brown and each individual person in the band. From Mark Miller to the guy who scraps the gum off the floor!
I fell in love with Sawyer Brown in 1988 in VIncennes Indiana. I raised my kids rocking out to SB. I thought I knew everything about the band until I read this book. I had an admiration and respect for Mark Miller my entire adulthood but this book raised that bar a whole new level! I love that he puts God then family then career in that order! In a world gone crazy it’s so reassuring to see there are still good people in the world. May God continue to bless Sawyer Brown and each individual person in the band. From Mark Miller to the guy who scraps the gum off the floor!
May 31, 2024
Yes, Sawyer Brown is my favorite band, and I had a huge crush on Mark when I was a young teen, but that isn't the reason I'm giving this book a fantastic review.
I cried, I laughed, I found out things about Mark and the rest of the band I never knew! Even being the fan I am! I would like to praise Mark on a couple of things...one on NEVER ever have taken a drink of alcohol in his life! Being the wife of a recovering alcoholic... that means so much to me! But even more than that, I love how Mark loves the Lord Jesus like he does. My heart went nuts over this book and my crush on Mark sparked up a little bit! Praises to Mark Miller on such a superb book!
I cried, I laughed, I found out things about Mark and the rest of the band I never knew! Even being the fan I am! I would like to praise Mark on a couple of things...one on NEVER ever have taken a drink of alcohol in his life! Being the wife of a recovering alcoholic... that means so much to me! But even more than that, I love how Mark loves the Lord Jesus like he does. My heart went nuts over this book and my crush on Mark sparked up a little bit! Praises to Mark Miller on such a superb book!
November 12, 2024
I am a major fan of the group Sawyer Brown. I have been to their concerts several times and have met them three times, so I was excited to find this book. This is written by the lead singer, and it is mostly his story. He is a very positive person and there is not much complaining in this book. He is a very strong person and stands up for what he believes in. For instance, he does not drink alcohol at all and turned down a very lucrative deal from a beer company to sponsor a tour. He also doesn't do anything if it doesn't 'feel right'. I was interested in how the songs came about but if you are not a fan you might not be interested in this.
March 13, 2024
Being a third generation Sawyer Brown fan and having finally gotten to see them in concert last year, I was really excited for this book. I loved the stories and how Mark told them with humility, kindness, and respect. I grew up listening and loving their music and still listen often to this day, but diving deeper into the type of people this group is, how they stayed dedicated to their sound, and continued staying true to themselves and their fans, is truly just at another level. Remarkable respect for this band and I loved reading this book and adding just another layer to my love for them.
April 1, 2024
This book was phenomenal! A must for every Sawyer Brown fan! I absolutely loved it! Very interesting the whole way through and brought back memories of my youth as my mom, brother and I watched and cheered as they won week after week on Star Search! As a huge fan, I’m amazed by how many things I didn’t know about Mark Miller and the band. So glad to have read it. Still inspiring after all these years. I am going to be buying copies for Christmas gifts and I just need to figure out how I can get my hands on a signed copy!
April 15, 2024
I loved this book! I grew up listening to Sawyer Brown, so when I saw Mark had written a book about his life and career as their frontman, I had to read it. It’s got tons of stories from behind the scenes with lots of fun things to learn about Mark and all his experiences. There were some surprises of things that I had no idea of and Mark does a fantastic job at telling the stories. Mark also reads the audiobook version and that was an excellent narration and a lot of fun to listen to. A great read!
July 18, 2024
I loved this book! I actually listened to the audio book and Mark Miller reads it so it was fun to hear it in his voice. He shared so much about his life and his experiences. I've loved Sawyer Brown band from their beginning. I learned so much about where he came from and how the band got its start. I loved hearing about his values and how he has kept those values thru all of the years of being famous. He shares his feelings about his love for his mom, brother, wife and children. If you are a fan of Sawyer Brown then this book is a must read or must listen to.
February 5, 2025
This is an amazing book. I have been a fan since I was little, watching Star Search with my grandparents. I enjoyed his stories on the road and his beliefs. I also loved getting to know some of the band's background. Where the inspiration for their songs and how the band members are extremely humble. I got the chance to meet Mark Miller when he had a book signing at his latest concert in NV. What an amazing experience to have him not only sign my book but getting to meet him. One of my favorite concerts was in Hot Springs Arkansas.
March 18, 2024
Really enjoyed this memoir! I enjoy reading about the lives of creative people. Although I love the music of Sawyer Brown and have seen them live several times there was a lot in this book that I would not have guessed about the frontman who gets up and dances so freely on stage. It helped give some additional richness to the music I love and witnessed to the faith of the person singing it. I found myself smiling a lot as I read this book.
February 11, 2024
The energy Mark Miller brings to his stage shows comes through in spades from the very opening of the book. Such fun to travel through the Sawyer Brown journey and learn about the enduring bonds the band members share. I sang each song as it was mentioned in the book and recalled the incredible fun each concert has been. Can't wait for my next Sawyer Brown concert!
July 26, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Mark Miller’s life and the behind-the-scenes peek at Sawyer Brown over the years. I have even more respect for the guys in the band now, and really for Mark especially—what a good, Christian man who managed to keep his values throughout the crazy show business world! The memoir was easy to follow and well done.
August 1, 2024
Good book
I am a huge Sawyer Brown fan. If you are a fan too, this is a great book .
The beginning of the book about Mark's chilhood was interesting. The middle was a little cumbersome.. The ending chapters were terrific, packed with very cool life events.
Mark has accomplished a lot in his life. He shares some awesome times in his life but does so with humility.
I am a huge Sawyer Brown fan. If you are a fan too, this is a great book .
The beginning of the book about Mark's chilhood was interesting. The middle was a little cumbersome.. The ending chapters were terrific, packed with very cool life events.
Mark has accomplished a lot in his life. He shares some awesome times in his life but does so with humility.
August 3, 2024
I laughed and cried all the way through this book. Mark and “the boys” raised me through the speakers and music videos my entire life. As an adult, almost 40, with my own kids - I relate to Mark on an entirely different level. This is the book I didn’t want to end.. I cried. Forever the best Travelin’ Band.
October 13, 2024
Awesome book with nothing but the Glory and truth
This is a book I bought because I have seen them in concert once in Manistee Michigan as a retirement surprise from my husband. I watched them win Star Search and followed them ever since. I thought it would be a fun read. And it was and so much much more. A truly inspiring book.
This is a book I bought because I have seen them in concert once in Manistee Michigan as a retirement surprise from my husband. I watched them win Star Search and followed them ever since. I thought it would be a fun read. And it was and so much much more. A truly inspiring book.
January 14, 2026
Read this with my wife, and we both had great appreciation and respect for Mark Miller before reading, but learned SO much about him and Sawyer Brown that we never realized, and as Christians gained an even larger amount of respect for he and how he has lived out his faith. This book is fantastic but even more so if you're a fan of the band. So glad he wrote this book!
March 15, 2024
Grew up listening to Sawyer Brown. As a pre teen and teen I tagged along with my mom and her friends that catered many shows that they played at. I enjoyed the story and reminiscing about their shows and songs.
March 23, 2024
I am a fangirl of forty years and counting! I have LOVED Sawyer Brown for so long and continue to do so! This book just made me love Mark and the boys even more! It was well written and so much fun to read. Great book by an amazing man! I highly recommend it!
May 10, 2024
Fabulous
I’ve been a Sawyer Brown fan from the very beginning. This book tells me so much more about this fabulous group!! Thank You Mark for sharing your life and the bands life with me and all the fans.
I’ve been a Sawyer Brown fan from the very beginning. This book tells me so much more about this fabulous group!! Thank You Mark for sharing your life and the bands life with me and all the fans.
October 28, 2024
Must read for Sawyer Brown fans. I have been a fan since 1984 and learned a lot about Mark and the group. I didn't know that he had all the power as to what the band did. Interesting, quick, hard to put down read.
November 16, 2024
I have been a fan of Sawyer Brown for years, after reading this I am an even bigger fan! It is refreshing to read about such great faith and love for God. Mark Miller has always stood for what he believes even when it wasn’t popular.
January 10, 2025
I have always been a Fan of Sawyer Brown. They were my first ever concert, I remember meeting Mark when I was a senior in HS after that concert and he was amazing. This book is that too- loved hearing about his faith, family and the fun and backstory of the Band.
June 27, 2025
What a ride
Love this group ever since I watch them win star search. Some of the best year's of my life was when Sawyer Brown was around.
Mark thank you so much for writing this book. It is funny how God sets up things for you. This book is the perfect example!!
Love this group ever since I watch them win star search. Some of the best year's of my life was when Sawyer Brown was around.
Mark thank you so much for writing this book. It is funny how God sets up things for you. This book is the perfect example!!
November 3, 2025
Great Read!
I love that we got every step of the band Sawyer Brown from.1984 to now. I also like that we get the spiritual and family side of Mark. This book is for any Sawyer Brown fan, fan of interesting life stories and Faith based stuff!
I love that we got every step of the band Sawyer Brown from.1984 to now. I also like that we get the spiritual and family side of Mark. This book is for any Sawyer Brown fan, fan of interesting life stories and Faith based stuff!
February 25, 2024
As a Sawyer Brown fan of almost 40 years starting with my first concert at age 11, this book was a trip down memory lane while learning new things along the way.
February 29, 2024
Great look into how they stared and where they are now.
March 6, 2024
Wonderful
Very interesting story of Mark's life and the people he surrounded himself with. I have always enjoyed this band and I really enjoyed reading about their history.
Very interesting story of Mark's life and the people he surrounded himself with. I have always enjoyed this band and I really enjoyed reading about their history.
March 13, 2024
If you love Sawyer Brown, you will love this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews