Mine singer-songwriter J.D. Souther's song catalog and you'll pick your way through a treasure trove of hits. There's "The Best of My Love," and "New Kid in Town," both hits for the Eagles. Souther dueted with James Taylor for "Her Town Too," and Linda Ronstadt made classics of his songs, "Faithless Love" and "Prisoner in Disguise." A founder of Southern California country rock, Texas-born performs his intensely melodic music at Fairfield Theatre Company's Stage One on June 20.

In addition to several acclaimed albums, during his more than four decade career Souther has combined forces with an exciting roster of talented musicians. In the 70s, he played with The Souther Hillman Furay Band, matching musical wits with Poco's Richie Furay and the Byrds' Chris Hillman and producing two albums. Later, in spite of a burgeoning solo career, in 1985 Souther opted out of performing for an extended hiatus. "I just wanted to be a good songwriter. I wanted to just stay home and write," he's said of the time.

For the next 25 years, that's what he did, demonstrating his versatility and range by composing songs for a stunning group of musicians, including India.Arie, Brooks & Dunn, Jimmy Buffet, Glen Campbell, Joe Cocker, Crosby Stills & Nash, Diamond Rio, Dixie Chicks, Don Henley, One Flew South, Roy Orbison, Bernadette Peters, Bonnie Raitt, George Strait, Brian Wilson, Trisha Yearwood and Warren Zevon.

In 2008, he returned to the studio and then to the spotlight. Souther resumed his performing, having  recorded his solo album, "If the World Was You."  Now that's he's back, hear Souther at FTC when his soulful singing is sure to bring new life to some old -- but still thrilling -- songs. His show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $32. For more information, visit FTC's website.

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