It was named after the band that Isaak co-founded and led, though only guitarist James Calvin Wilsey is credited on the album.

The band became involved with veteran producer Erik Jacobsen within a year of forming and signed with his production company.

[8] Ayers later claimed that his bass parts on two tracks remained on the final album, uncredited; Jacobsen commented that this is possible, but could not remember for certain.

For the tour, Isaak and Wilsey recruited bassist Rowland Salley and drummer Kenney Dale Johnson, who would remain permanent members.

Despite the album receiving positive reviews and endorsements from established artists such as John Fogerty, Silvertone was a commercial flop in the United States, selling approximately 14,000 copies.