BMI Toasts ‘Back When I Knew It All’ Crew

BMI songwriters Phil O’Donnell and Gary Hannan celebrated topping the charts during a reception Tuesday, August 12 at BMI’s Music Row offices. Recorded by Montgomery Gentry and co-written by O’Donnell, Hannan and Trent Willmon, “Back When I Knew It All” became the fourth chart-topper and fastest rising career single for the boisterous duo. The single marks the first trip to no. 1 for O’Donnell, whose songs have been recorded by Clay Walker, Joe Diffie and Craig Morgan, who he has also produced, while the tune is the second no. 1 for Hannan, whose résumé includes Joe Nichols’ infectious “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off.”

Montgomery Gentry and the songwriters paused for a group shot. Pictured are (l-r): Montgomery Gentry’s Troy Gentry, co-writers Phil O’Donnell, Gary Hannan and Trent Willmon, with Montgomery Gentry’s Eddie Montgomery.

Eddie Montgomery (left) and Troy Gentry (center) field questions from television reporters.

Friends and collaborators Gary Hannan (left) and Phil O’Donnell (right) smile for the camera.

FOX 17’s Kelly Sutton (left) interviews songwriter Phil O’Donnell (right).

Pictured are (l-r): BMI’s Jody Williams, producer Blake Chancey, Columbia Nashville’s Jimmy Rector, Eddie Montomery and Troy Gentry, co-writers Phil O’Donnell, Gary Hannan and Trent Willmon, Immokalee Music’s Dean Blocker and BMI’s Perry Howard, with Anchor Down Entertainment’s Robin Palmer, Little Bisquit Music’s Judy Harris and Chobe Music’s Karen Sturgeon in front.

Photos by Steve Lowry