Allen Shamblin, a successful country songwriter, co-wrote the hit song "Don't Laugh at Me," which achieved gold status and won Song of the Year in 1999. The song, advocating tolerance for all children, was also covered by Peter, Paul & Mary and embraced by various special interest groups. Shamblin, originally from Tennessee, pursued music while working various jobs before finding success in Nashville, where he wrote hit songs for artists like Randy Travis and established his own publishing company, Built on Rock Music. His compositions have been recorded by a diverse range of artists, from Prince to Dolly Parton.