New Bluegrass Gospel CD by Lou Reid and Carolina
by Penni on Aug.02, 2010, under Christian, News
We are proud to announce the upcoming September 28, 2010 album release, “SOUNDS LIKE HEAVEN TO ME,” by LOU REID AND CAROLINA. The first radio single, “God’s Front Porch” has been released to bluegrass radio via the label’s “Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks” and is also available to Southern Gospel and other stations via Airplay Direct.
LOU REID AND CAROLINA includes the talents of Lou Reid (lead vocals, mandolin, guitar), Christy Reid (bass and vocals), Shannon Slaughter (guitar and vocals), and Trevor Watson (banjo and vocals.) Lou is excited about the band’s first bluegrass gospel album saying, “I hope that my style of faith-based music is inspiring to people as I have tried to combine music with a positive message. Our time on earth is so short and the longer I live, the more sure I am of God’s plan. If I can touch one heart with this record, I will deem it a success.”
“SOUNDS LIKE HEAVEN TO ME” also includes two beautiful a cappella songs: “Oh Lord Have Mercy on My Soul” co-written by Lou Reid and T. Michael Coleman; plus, “It’s So Hard to Stumble (When You’re Down on Your Knees)” co-written by Shannon Slaughter and Lou Reid that made an impact on Country, Bluegrass and Gospel radio, garnered a nomination for the 2009 IBMA Gospel Song of the Year Award, and was nominated for the 2010 GMA Dove Award for “Bluegrass Gospel Song of the Year.” Lou Reid and Carolina fans received a preview of the group’s bluegrass gospel roots as “It’s So Hard to Stumble” was also featured on the band’s current award winning mainstream bluegrass album, “MY OWN SET OF RULES.” That album also contained another hit song, “Amanda Lynn” that won the 2010 SPBGMA Song of the Year Award and garnered #1 chart positions for both the album and single on the Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine and Bluegrass Music Profiles charts.
LOU REID AND CAROLINA have been chosen as a 2010 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Showcase Artist and will perform during the IBMA World of Bluegrass convention this September in Nashville, Tennessee. Lou is certainly one of the hottest touring artist on the road as he also performs with the Seldom Scene and the bluegrass superstar group, Longview.
For more information on Lou Reid and Carolina, please visit www.loureidandcarolina.com or www.ruralrhythm.com
RECORD LABEL:
Rural Rhythm Records
Radio Contact: Sammy Passamano, III Email
RADIO – AIRPLAY DIRECT
ALBUM PUBLICITY:
Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel
678.377.3298
Email
High res album cover here
BAND BOOKING AND PUBLICITY:
Lou & Christy Reid
704-872-7779
Email
Blue Moon Rising’s “Strange New World”
by Penni on Aug.02, 2010, under News
We are proud to announce the first radio single release, “Time To Be Movin’ On” from the highly anticipated new album, “STRANGE NEW WORLD” by BLUE MOON RISING releasing October 12, 2010. The single was released to radio via the label’s “Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks, #8″ and is also available now via AIRPLAY DIRECT. “Time To Be Movin’ On” was written by band leader and acclaimed songwriter, Chris West who describes the song as kicking off with a little Johnny Cash / Del Reeves and will surely please BMR fans once again. Chris also contributes his powerful signature vocals and guitar, along with the exciting new line up of: Brandon Bostic (mandolin, vocals); Tony Mowell (bass and vocals); Owen Piatt (banjo); with special guests, Tim Crouch (fiddle) and Randy Kohrs (Dobro).
“STRANGE NEW WORLD” is Blue Moon Rising’s fifth career album and their first recording on Rural Rhythm Records. The project combines a very eclectic mix of new original material with West contributing 7 of the 13 tracks. Other writers include: Mike Dekle, Kevin Denney, Becky Buller, Jon Weisberger/Jeremy Garrett and Clint Wilson.
The songs on “STRANGE NEW WORLD” certainly showcase Blue Moon Rising’s range, versatility and maturity as it continually shifts between hard-core traditional bluegrass, blues, gospel, country and singer-songwriter influenced music. If one could paint a picture that captures the subjects and themes from songs like the peppy honky-tonk influenced kick-off track, “Time To Be Movin’ On,” the soulful blues influenced, “He’s All Around Us” and the haunting and beautiful Kevin Denney original, “My Sitting Window” the painting would represent a “STRANGE NEW WORLD” indeed!
With that imagery in mind, Chris West enlisted the help of his artist friend, Jason Jones, who created the album artwork for the band’s previous album, “ONE LONELY SHADOW.” Chris explains, “I asked Jason to create a very artsy vision of a strange new world where things aren’t quite right in comparison to the world we live in. I wanted every single image on the CD to tie in directly with a song in some way. I wrote a blues song about temptation and the struggle between good and evil on this project called ‘He’s All Around Us’, hence the transparent devil behind the tree on the cover. There’s a love song on the CD called ‘Stone by Stone’ for a girl named Jenny where the lovelorn singer says ‘My Jenny belongs in an Ivory Tower.’ So Jason made the tower the centerpiece on the cover. We also married several songs together within the art. I wrote song on the CD called ‘Hard Luck Joe’ about a homeless man who used to have a much better life. If you’ll notice the tree on the cover, there’s a heart carved in it that says ‘Joe -n- Jenny’ where we’ve married the songs ‘Hard Luck Joe’ and ‘Stone by Stone.’ When you give the CD a thorough listen, you’ll be able to go back and look at this great piece of art and know what every single image is about.”
BLUE MOON RISING is sponsored by GHS Strings, Blue Chip Picks, and Chota Outfitters. For information on the new album, tour schedule and more, please visit www.bluemoonrisingband.com.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
BOOKING CONTACT:
Graham Talent Group
Randy Graham
859-421-7718BLUE MOON RISING
Chris West | Email
www.BlueMoonRisingBand.com
MEDIA and Additional BOOKING CONTACT:
Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel | Email
678-377-3298
The Bartley Brothers “HIT THE ROAD” Releasing August 24, 2010
by Penni on Jul.25, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the August 24, 2010 album release, “HIT THE ROAD” by Kentucky bluegrass music veterans, The Bartley Brothers. The first single is the title track from this exciting new album and is already out to bluegrass radio via the label’s “Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks” radio sampler. “HIT THE ROAD’ really showcases the bands tight Vocals, Rock Solid Instrumentation and song writing abilities and is sure to propel them to top of the charts,” said Radio Host, Charlie Hall (WCYO FM).
Rick and Shayne Bartley have begun a new chapter in their careers and are now fronting their own band joined by Jayd Raines (formerly with Marty Raybon) and Josh Hymer (formerly with Ernie Thacker and Coal Town). The Bartley Brothers have developed a traditional sound that is radio friendly and will set them apart from other bluegrass groups by utilizing their beautifully blended brother harmonies. “There’s nothing like sibling harmony, and Rick and Shayne Bartley have it in spades. Rick is a mighty talented singer/songwriter and the band they have assembled is top notch.” – John Lawlass, The BluegrassBlog.
In addition to their powerful harmonies and masterful instrumental work on the album, Rick Bartley has pulled out all the stops to bring bluegrass fans 8 new original songs from home and real life which has been his songwriting trademark for years. Such songs as: “Blue Side of the Blueridge” which was the single and title track for Junior Sisk’s hit album and “I’M A HOBO” recorded on the recent J. D. Crowe & The New South album. Quality songwriting surely runs in the family. Lou Reid has recorded “My Whole Word in His Hands” (from his #1 album “TIME”) and was co-written by Shayne Bartley.
Kevin Kerfoot, Publisher and Editor of BMP, has high marks for the new album saying, “Veteran bluegrass performers Rick and Shayne Bartley’s decision to hit the road as a duet is great news for lovers of original traditional bluegrass done right. The title track and first single of their debut CD is a catchy barn burner full of great banjo, mandolin and fiddle breaks. ‘Loneliness Moved In’ is another example showcasing their great brother harmonies and expert pickin’ and singin’. I’m looking forward to hearing much more bluegrass from The Bartley Brothers!”
“The Bartley Brothers are surely no strangers to the bluegrass world. With there joined talents this project is nothing less than I would expect” said fellow label-mate Rickey Wasson.
“HIT THE ROAD” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Rural Rhythm, and other fine outlets.
For more information on The Bartley Brothers, please visit: FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, REVERBNATION
New Darrell Webb Band Album
by Penni on Jul.22, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the July 13 release of “BLOODLINE”, the debut album by The Darrell Webb Band. Darrell is very excited about the new release saying, “This is my favorite album I’ve ever recorded.” The band has been chosen as an official International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Showcase Artist at this year’s IBMA World of Bluegrass held at the Nashville Convention Center, Nashville, TN where they will be performing songs from the new album.
When you hear the first notes of Merle Haggards’s “I’m Bringin’ Home Good News,” you are going to realize that you better fasten your seat belt. The musicians on “BLOODLINE” are the same musicians you will hear live with the exception of Mountain Heart fiddler, Jim VanCleve. The album showcases the distinctive high tenor vocals and mandolin talents of Darrell Webb who also gives his band plenty of room to shine. “BLOODLINE” is highlighted by the talents of: Chris Wade (banjo), Asa Gravley (guitar), Jeremy Arrowood (bass), and Tyler Kirkpatrick (Dobro).
Featured tracks include the new single release “Poor Ramblin’ Boy”; Jimbo Whaley’s incredible biographical tune, “Kings of Orebank”; “Bloodline”; and many more songs that are sure to please bluegrass music fans.
Darrell Webb has been an integral part of many great bluegrass groups during the last 20 years having worked with fellow Rural Rhythm recording artist, The Lonesome River Band when he was only 19 years old… to J. D. Crowe & The New South, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, and Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper.
“BLOODLINE” is now avalable at AMAZON, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, the band’s website, and other fine outlets.
For more information on The Darrell Webb Band, please visit: www.darrellwebbband.com
The Lonesome River Band – “STILL LEARNING”
by Penni on Jul.22, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the new album, “STILL LEARNING” by the Lonesome River Band. This super group is lead by the award-winning banjoist Sammy Shelor who is joined by: Brandon Rickman (guitar, lead vocals), Andy Ball (mandolin, lead vocals), Mike Hartgrove (fiddle) and Mike Anglin (bass, vocals). Rickman explains the meaning behind his original song, “I’m Still Learning” that was of course the inspiration for the title. “We all thought that this song really describes LRB today. Learning something new every day and seeing things a whole new way has been the creative path and our attitude ever since the five of us got together.”
The Lonesome River Band was back on top with their last album, “NO TURNING BACK” reaching #1 on numerous charts including staying #1 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Top 15 Album Chart for 3 months in a row. The album included two chart singles, “Them Blues,” (the #1 song for 2 months in a row), plus the hit, “Like a Train Needs a Track.” “STILL LEARNING” certainly picks up where “NO TURNING BACK” left off. The first single, “Record Time Machine,” written by Marvin E. Clark (who also co-wrote “Like a Train Needs a Track”) has received rave reviews from key radio hosts including:
“Man, I love it!! It’s a HIT!!” – Kyle Cantrell, Sirius-XM Radio “Bluegrass Junction”
“FABULOUS! That’s a winner!!” – Terry Herd, Bluegrass Radio Network “Into the Blue”
“STILL LEARNING” is available at all fine outlets including iTunes, Amazon, Barnes and Nobel and many more.
Next year the Lonesome River Band will celebrate their 30th Anniversary and these band members are certainly carrying on tradition with “STILL LEARNING.” Their new single and album will surely dominate the bluegrass charts again and we are still learning how high the ceiling is for this top group.
The Lonesome River Band can also be heard on the upcoming new album, “GRAVES MOUNTAIN – LIVE” recorded live last month at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia celebrating Rural Rhythm Records 55th Anniversary.
For more information on the Lonesome River Band including their tour schedule and other news, please visit www.lonesomeriverband.com or the label’s site at www.RuralRhythm.com. Media information and request are available at HopeRiverEntertainment.com/lrb.htm and Booking provided by Roe Entertainment.
Michael Martin Murphey’s “Buckaroo Blue Grass II: Riding Song”
by admin on Mar.13, 2010, under News
Michael Martin Murphey and his Buckaroo Blue Grass friends ride again on the February 9, 2010 album release ofBUCKAROO BLUE GRASS II: Riding Song. The album expands on his passions of his Grammy nominated album, “BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS,” creating fully acoustic bluegrass versions of songs about the region to which Murphey has been deeply connected for a lifetime – the American Southwest.
The high lonesome sound in bluegrass music has always appealed to the cowboy soul. Somehow the acoustic instruments used in bluegrass have a drive, energy and expansive quality – an almost mystical “wide open country” sort of feeling that seems built into the design. You can hear and feel it on Rob Ickes‘ country sound in the new version of “Wildfire.” It seems the American West has produced “running-wide-open” acoustic musicians like Pat Flynn, Sam Bush, Rob Ickes and Ryan Murphey who have been key in developing the Buckaroo Blue Grass sound as they blaze a trail connecting Cowboy and Western music to Bluegrass by exploring Wild West sonic spaces.
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Rural Rhythm to Issue Two Rediscovered Treasures
by admin on Mar.23, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the upcoming March 23, 2010 album releases of two first generation bluegrass legends: “BLUEGRASS 1963” by Reno & Smiley with special guests Carter and Ralph Stanley, and “BLUEGRASS 1971” by Mac Wiseman with special guest, Lester Flatt & Chubby Wise. These are the first two album projects by a new and exciting joint venture between Rural Rhythm Records and Ronnie Reno. These historic albums will be available for purchase wherever bluegrass music is sold including; Walmart, Amazon, Borders, iTunes, Rhapsody, e-music, County Sales, Music Shed, plus the Rural Rhythm website.
“BLUEGRASS 1963,” produced by Ronnie Reno, is a welcomed treasure for those lucky enough to have seen and heard Reno & Smiley perform on their legendary “Top O’ the Morning” daily TV show in Roanoke, Virginia during the early 1960’s. This 18 song collection features their long time sideman, The Tennessee Cut-Ups, Mac Magaha on fiddle, John Palmer on bass, guitarist Steve Chapman, plus a young Ronnie Reno on mandolin. There are fine renditions of their classics like “I Know You’re Married,” “I’m the Talk of the Town,” “Love Please Come Home,” “I Wouldn’t Change You If I Could,” and “I’m Using My Bible for a Roadmap.”
Also featured on the album are guest spots from none other than The Stanley Brothers (Ralph and Carter) performing the classic “In the Pines,” “Nine Pound Hammer,” and Ralph joining Don Reno for a twin banjo workout on “Home Sweet Home.” A special album highlight is the four-part harmony performance of “Over in the Gloryland” with Ralph & Carter Stanley joined by Reno & Smiley and their full band. ‘As I look back some 47 years ago when we recorded this, I can’t help but think of my feelings on the music we were playing. I was 16, playing mandolin in a great band on TV and recording hit records. I guess I thought all bands sounded and played like Reno & Smiley. Little did I know I was playing in one of the greatest bluegrass bands of all time.” said album producer, Ronnie Reno.
“BLUEGRASS 1971,” features Mac Wiseman with special guests Lester Flatt & Chubby Wise. Mac Wiseman has been a very important part of the Country and Bluegrass music scene for many decades recording a tremendous amount of successful albums that have contained a long list of big hits in both genres. Towards the end of 1970, Mac Wiseman andLester Flatt talked about teaming up for an album that would re-create the mood and spirit of the late 1940s. Lester had split acrimoniously fromEarl Scruggs, so Lester and Mac began touring and recording together. During this period, their albums were musically and commercially successful including their album, “Lester ‘N Mac” reaching #42 on the Billboard Top Country Album Chart.
This star-studded bluegrass album was recorded in 1971 at the Renfro Valley Barn Dance in Kentucky during this historic collaborative period between the two. “BLUEGRASS 1971” gives us a historic treat as these bluegrass legends perform three classic songs together with Lester’s Nashville Grass Band, which included Paul Warren, Josh Graves, Roland White, Haskel McCormick and Johnny Johnson, special guest, Howdy Forrester, and nine classic songs performed with Mac and his band, The Shenandoah Valley Cut-Ups that included: Billy Edwards, Hershel Sizemore, John Palmer, Tater Tate, with special guest Chubby Wise. Another highlight includes a fiery three fiddle instrumental version of the classic tune, “Liberty,” with Tater Tate, Joe Greene and Chubby Wise.
Bill Emerson & Sweet Dixie Announce March 27 and 28, 2010
by admin on Mar.15, 2010, under News
Washington Monument Award Presentation to Bill Emerson
CD Release Party for “Southern”
March 9, 2010: (Washington D.C.) Bill Emerson is celebrating two major events this month. On Saturday, March 27, Emerson will be honored with the very first Washington Monument Awards presented by the DC Bluegrass Union in recognition of this 50 year career in bluegrass music. The following day, March 28, Bill Emerson & Sweet Dixie will hold their OFFICIAL CD RELEASE PARTY for their new album, “SOUTHERN.”
March 27, 2010 details:
The Washington Monument Award will be presented to Emerson at the DC Bluegrass Festival on Saturday, March 27 at Langley High School in McLean, Virginia. The award celebrates Washington, DC-area musicians who have been instrumental in shaping the direction of bluegrass music nationwide. For more information and online ticketing, please visit www.dcbluegrassfest.org. (continue reading…)
Audie Blaylock & Redline CD March 30, 2010 Release
by admin on Mar.16, 2010, under News
Audie Blaylock and Redline hit the fast lane with a brand new album, “Cryin’ Heart Blues” releasing March 30, 2010 on Rural Rhythm Records. This new release comes on the heels of their successful debut album on the label last year that yielded a #1 album and two Top 10 singles. The band was also honored with a selection as a 2009 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Artist Showcase plus a 2009 IBMA Award Nomination for Gospel Performance of the Year.
“Cryin Heart Blues” was produced by Audie Blaylock and includes musicians: Audie Blaylock (Guitar, Lead Vocals); Evan Ward (Banjo, Vocals); Patrick McAvinue (Fiddle, Mandolin, Vocals); and Matt Wallace (Bass, Vocals.) The first single, “Cryin Heart Blues” will be released next week to radio via Rural Rhythm’s new “Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks” No. 7 radio CD.
Audie can also be heard performing the Western classic, “Running Gun” on Michael Martin Murphey’s February 9, 2010 album release, “Buckaroo Blue Grass II – Riding Song,” the follow-up to the Grammy™ nominated “Buckaroo Blue Grass” album. Blaylock and Murphey debuted the song last October during a live performance held during the IBMA World of Bluegrass held in Nashville, TN.
Audie Blaylock & Redline will be part of the Rural Rhythm Records 55 Year Anniversary Celebration – a live recorded event to be held in Syria, Virginia at the Graves Mountain of Music Festival on Friday, June 4, 2010.
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Audie Blaylock & Redline
“Cryin’ Heart Blues”
Release Date: March 30, 2010
Pre-order this CD here
Lou Reid and Carolina’s “Amanda Lynn” #1 Again
by Penni on Mar.24, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce Lou Reid and Carolina’s current single, “Amanda Lynn” is the #1 song on the April 2010 Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine Top 30. The tune also hit #1 last November on the Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 30 Singles Chart. “Amanda Lynn” was recently honored with the 2010 SONG OF THE YEAR AWARD by the Society and Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA) during the organization’s recent convention.
“Amanda Lynn” was the first single release from Lou Reid and Carolina’s current album, “MY OWN SET OF RULES.” The album was produced by Lou Reid and features band members, Christy Reid, Shannon Slaughter, Trevor Watson, with special guest Ron Stewart on fiddle. “MY OWN SET OF RULES” is also charting, appearing at #6 on Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s Top 15 Albums (April), #7 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 20 Bluegrass Albums (Mar), #5 on Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine’s Top 10 Albums (March) and #11 on last week’s Roots Music Bluegrass Report.
Lou and Christy Reid can be seen on the cover of the current issue of Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine that also includes a feature interview with Lou who discusses his career with three successful bluegrass groups, Lou Reid and Carolina, The Seldom Scene, and Longview.
Lou Reid and Carolina are currently in the studio recording their upcoming bluegrass gospel album that will be released on the Rural Rhythm Christian label. The band has numerous exciting events coming up including their performance in the upcoming Rural Rhythm Records 55 Year Celebration at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music, a live recorded event to be held on June 4, 2010 in Syria, Virginia. For more information including a complete tour schedule, please visit: www.loureidandcarolina.com
New CD by Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road
by Penni on Mar.24, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the upcoming April 13, 2010 album release of “CAROLINA HURRICANE” by bluegrass band, Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road. “For several years now I have witnessed the tremendous amount energy and excitement along with a strong sense of confidence and pride Lorraine Jordan has playing her style of hard drivin’ bluegrass. This not only holds true to Lorraine Jordan as an artist, but also carries over into several important industry album projects she has been involved with over the years. Lorraine is such a strong force in the bluegrass community that we wanted her to be a part of our team and Rural Rhythm Family…So, what’s more appropriate for her debut Rural Rhythm album title than ‘Carolina Hurricane’…This title surely says it all,” said Rural Rhythm President, Sam Passamano, Jr.
The music is hard driving bluegrass by the talents of Carolina Road band members, Lorraine Jordan, Josh Goforth, Ben Greene, Dustin Benson and Brad Hudson, along with guests, Kevin Richardson, Jason Moore, Greg Luck, Alan Perdue, Ronnie Stewart, Josh Crowe, and Wayne Crowe. The album was produced by Josh Goforth and Lorraine Jordan and engineered by Greg Luck.
“CAROLINA HURRICANE” is filled with upbeat songs, many written or co-written by Lorraine Jordan. She co-wrote the upcoming single release “Carolina Hurricane” with Louisa Branscomb; penned “Carolina Memories”; plus a song that is sure to be a fan favorite, “Lady of Tradition,” co-written with Dixie Hall and Paula Breedlove. Other songwriters include: Bill Monroe, Ernest Tubb, Lois Snapp, John Scott Sherrill, Thomas G. Caine, Brad Davis, and many more.
“I am honored to be the newest artist to sign with Rural Rhythm Records. I appreciate a label that treats their clients like a team and I already feel part of the Rural Rhythm family. There was a connection there from the first hello. They appreciate my roots and allow me to continue the style of music which I was raised on and have been performing for over a decade. I will work hard to add to their continued success,” said Lorraine Jordan.
Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road kick-off their 2010 Category 5 Hurricane Tour with performances all across the country this year at venues and festivals in Arizona, Tennessee, St. Thomas, New York, Maryland, Ohio, numerous dates in Canada, plus so many more. For more information on this mega tour, please visit the band’s brand new website at: www.carolinaroadband.com. For more information on Rural Rhythm Records, please visit RuralRhythm.com
More Information on Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road
Brand New Strings
by Penni on Mar.31, 2010, under News
**Don’t miss the limited edition packaging – CD resembles a pack of brand new strings - please see our STORE for more information.
National touring bluegrass band, BRAND NEW STRINGS recently held their CD Release Party for their new Rural Rhythm Records album, NO STRINGS ATTACHED. The Knoxville area event was held at the Carter High School Auditorium in Strawberry Plains, TN with proceeds benefiting the Carter Elementary P.T.O. The party featured Brand New Strings members, Randall Massengill, Mike Ramsey, Tim Tipton, Stuart Wyrick, Matt Leadbetter and Preston Schmidt with special guests: Steve Gulley (Grasstowne and the band’s CD producer); Keith Garrett (The Boxcars); Jim Millsaps (Knoxville Grass); Mike Bentley (Cumberland Gap Connection) and Phil Leadbetter. Brand New Strings were recently featured on SIRIUS-XM Radio show, Track by Track with host, Kyle Cantrell recently featured the band and their new album on his Track by Track show.
Free Downloads
by admin on Apr.02, 2010, under News
The Free Friday Download
Download Singles Right click and (Save Link As) to Download
Earl Taylor & Jim McCall: Earl-Jim-Little-Maggie.mp3
Earl Taylor – Mandolin & Vocals; Jim McCall – Guitar & Vocals; Tim Spradlin – 5 String Banjo; Charles Haskins – Bass
“Taylor, McCall and the Stoney Mountain Boys deliver renditions of standards including “Little Maggie,” “Foggy Mountain Top,” “(Lost All My Money But a) Two Dollar Bill,” “Roll in Sweet Baby’s Arms,” “Cripple Creek” and “Wreck of the Old ‘97” on this superior collection.”
ALL MUSIC GUIDE
Little Maggie; The Suns Gonna Shine; Pretty Polly; Wondering Boy; Home Across The Blueridge Mountains; False Hearted Love; Foggy Mountain Top; John Hardy; Over The Hill To The Poor House; Lonesome Road Blues; Wreck Of The Old ‘97; Old Joe Clark; Down In The Willow Garden; (Lost All My Money But A) Two Dollar Bill; Gathering Flowers From The Hillside; Ain’t Nobody Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone; Cripple Creek; Darling Corey; Roll In My Sweet Baby’s Arms; Worried Man Blues
ALL MUSIC GUIDE 4.5 Star Rating
Buy The Album Here
2010 Dove Nominations
by Penni on Apr.27, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the first two albums released on their new Christian arm of the label, Rural Rhythm Christian, both received 2010 DOVE Nominations for Bluegrass Album of the Year: Larry Sparks – “I Just Want to Thank You Lord” and The Marksmen Quartet – “Blue Ridge Mountain Memories.” The 41st Annual Dove Awards Show, presented by The Gospel Music Association, was held April 21, 2010 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN. read more
Carrie Hassler Announces 2010
by Penni on May.13, 2010, under News
One of bluegrass music’s favorite vocalist, Carrie Hassler has announced some major changes for what is surely to be an exciting 2010. Carrie recently decided that beginning 2011, she would take a little time off to focus on her family and pursue several exciting new possibilities in regards to her career. She will of course be fulfilling her 2010 tour dates, but no longer as “Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain.” The members of Hard Rain will now be touring separately with their own new band, Still House. As a Rural Rhythm recording artist, Carrie certainly wanted to keep within the family, so she is very proud to announce performance dates FEATURING label mates, Brand New Strings or The Mashville Brigade.
Both The Mashville Brigade and Brand New Strings include top veteran musicians with current successful Rural Rhythm albums. Musicians in these bands include: Ashby Frank, Brandon Rickman, Terry Baucom, Randy Barnes, Randall Massengill, Mike Ramsey, Tim Tipton, Stuart Wyrick, Preston Schmidt and more that will certainly make for some exciting shows!
Randall Massengill stated, “Brand New Strings is currently on tour promoting our new Rural Rhythm album, but we were thrilled that Carrie asked us to join her. It’s great that some of her dates happen to fit perfectly with our current schedule. We look forward to some special performances this year!”
Upcoming tour dates include:
May 29, 2010 – Little Johns Mountain Music Festival, Snow Camp, NC
June 4, 2010 – Rural Rhythm Records 55th Year Celebration at Graves Mountain, Syria, VA
June 12, 2010 – Dumplin Valley June Fest, Kodak, TN
June 26, 2010 – South Branch Bluegrass Festival, Romney, WV
August 6-7, 2010 – AFBA Bluegrass Festival, Wind Gap, PA
September 4, 2010 – Cumberland County Fair, Crossville, TN
September 11, 2010 – Franklin Music Festival, Franklin, KY
September 23, 2010 – 5th Annual Farm Park Bluegrass Festival, Denton, NC
October 9, 2010 – Liberty Square: A Lester Flatt Celebration, Sparta, TN
November 5, 2010 – Home Furniture Music Store, Mims, FL
November 6, 2010 – Riverhawk, Brooksville, FL
If you would like more information on Carrie Hassler, Brand New Strings or The Mashville Brigade, please contact Hope River Entertainment or Rural Rhythm Records.
News Single by Steve Gulley-Tim Stafford
by Penni on May.18, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the upcoming new album by Steve Gulley and Tim Stafford. “DOGWOOD WINTER” is comprised of all original songs by this award-winning songwriting team. The first single, “Just Along For the Ride” is now being serviced to radio and also available via Airplay Direct.
Gulley and Stafford’s songs have been recorded by many artists over the years including “Through the Window of a Train,” winner of the 2008 IBMA Song of the Year, and recorded by Blue Highway. “While Steve and I have been fortunate to have quite a few songs cut by various artists over the years, this record began as a vehicle to get our songs out there that—with one exception–hadn’t been previously recorded. We picked 14 of our best tunes that we felt would be a good cross-section of our work, and the record, from the beginning was going to be all about the song. Since most were bluegrass, we decided to enlist our friends Adam Steffey, Ron Stewart, and Justin Moses to help Steve and I lay down ‘grass tracks that would highlight those songs. Our tastes are eclectic, and we ended up having two tunes that needed arrangements that featured percussion from Mark Laws and, in the case of “Nebraska Sky,” Michael Alvey’s great piano playing. Dale Ann Bradley added the heavenly harmonies where we needed a trio with a female,” said Stafford. Tim Stafford is a current and founding member of award-winning Blue Highway – a band continuing to celebrate significant success with all five original members in tact.
Gulley also explains the origin of “DOGWOOD WINTER” saying, “This recording project is, quite simply, two good friends and writing partners recording some of their songs in the way they heard them when they were originally written. It was truly a great experience to record and create a collection of music that was all original. Tim has been my primary writing partner for years – as well as a one of my best friends. Besides being a good friend and collaborator, Tim is one of best musicians on the planet, so it was really cool to finally get to work with him in the studio on our own project. I think this a singer-songwriter record in every sense of the word. There’s traditional bluegrass, country-flavored tunes, middle-of-the road ballads and stripped down arrangements with just guitar and vocal. It’s a wide variety of styles but has one underlying theme or focus – the songs themselves.” Gulley is a current and founding member of the award-winning band, Grasstowne who also have a new album releasing on Rural Rhythm later this year.
New Country Single by Mason Douglas
by Penni on Jun.17, 2010, under News
New Country Single Release by Mason Douglas
Rural Rhythm Records Launches Country Arm of Label
Nashville, TN (Tuesday, June 15, 2010) Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the first single release, “Anything Can Happen” by country music entertainer, Mason Douglas. This original song is from his upcoming new album, “MY WILD HEART” scheduled for release later this year. This will be the first country album release by Rural Rhythm Records who also launched their new country music arm of the label including a brand new website at: www.ruralrhythmcountry.com
Popular radio host, “Big D and Bubba” have been spinning Mason’s music for years and were thrilled to bring him into their studio recently to record an interview and play his new single, “Anything Can Happen.” Big D and Bubba’s syndicated radio show can be heard in Nashville and throughout the country.
“Putting everything you love back into country music” is what singer/songwriter Mason Douglas set out to do on this debut album. Mason’s fans have become addicted to his distinguished diversity, some saying he sounds like Chris Isaak with his signature, sexy falsettos; some saying Garth Brooks with his honesty and range; and other even saying he’s country music’s Rob Thomas. Look for a feature article on Mason in the June/July 2010 issue of the Country Music Association’s CMA Close-Up Magazine.
The single, “Anything Can Happen” is available for purchase now via iTunes, Amazon.com and other digital retailers with album pre-ordering also available.
Radio is being serviced via DMDS and AirplayDirect.com:
- More info on DMDS: YANGAROO’s patented Digital Media Distribution System (DMDS) is a leading secure B2B digital delivery solution for the music and advertising industries. DMDS is a Web-based delivery system that pioneers secure digital file distribution by incorporating biometrics, high-value encryption and watermarking. DMDS replaces the physical distribution of audio and video content for music, music videos, and advertising to television, radio, media, retailers, award shows and other authorized recipients with more accountable, effective, and far less costly digital delivery of broadcast quality media via the Internet.
- More info on AIRPLAY DIRECT: AirPlay Direct is a digital delivery system developed for artists, radio programmers and music industry professionals sending secure broadcast quality music and digital press kits to radio stations, booking agents, promoters and music supervisors worldwide.
Mason Douglas is currently on tour including upcoming performances in Boise-ID, Portland-OR, Los Angeles-CA, Tucson-AZ, Newnan-GA, Chattanooga-TN and more. For more information on Mason Douglas please visit www.masondouglasmusic.com.Media inquiries including high res photos and available at: http://www.hoperiverentertainment.com/masondouglas.htm
Live Recording Includes Stellar Performances
by Penni on Jun.17, 2010, under News
On June 4, 2010, some of bluegrass music’s favorite artists took part in Rural Rhythm Records 55th Anniversary Celebration at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia. The day-long event was emceed by Sirius-XM Radio Host, Kyle Cantrell who said, “I don’t know when I’ve had a better time or heard better music! In this picturesque, out-of-the-way place in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the top stars in bluegrass shared songs with adoring crowds that had come from all over, and on that stage you could feel the love of both musician and fan. It was truly a great experience that you had to hear to believe.”
This historic live event was recorded for a special album titled, “GRAVES MOUNTAIN JAM – RECORDED LIVE (Rural Rhythm’s 55 Year Celebration)”scheduled for release on October 26, 2010. Sirius-XM will broadcast highlights of the show on Labor Day holiday weekend 2010.
The tremendous task of sound engineering was handled by Gene Daniell who has over 30 years experience in the Audio Arts specializing in Bluegrass and Acoustic performances. Gene Daniell and Mark Newton will begin the mixing and mastering process in a few weeks at Gene’s Studio in Marietta, Georgia.
Sam Passamano, Jr., President of Rural Rhythm Records said, “The Graves Mountain Festival of Music is a wonderful place to enjoy Bluegrass Music and the Graves Family are the finest people you will ever meet. We are so grateful to the Graves Family who totally embraced our Rural Rhythm 55 Year Celebration event along with thousands of bluegrass fans. I would especially like to thank Kyle Cantrell, Mark Newton, Carl Jackson, Gene Daniells and all our Rural Rhythm artists who made this a very special historic event.”
The show was produced by bluegrass artist, Mark Newton and Rural Rhythm Record’s President, Sam Passamano, Jr. “This live recording done at such a wonderful venue and established festival like Graves’ Mountain Festival of Music will be a Landmark project and one for the history books that fans will enjoy for years to come. It doesn’t get any better then the talent on stage like The Crowe Brothers, Carrie Hassler, Brand New Strings, Audie Blaylock & Redline, Lou Reid & Carolina, The Lonesome River Band and Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out. You add Carl Jackson and myself along with the talent above on the original song that Carl wrote ‘Graves Mountain Memories,’ and it makes for a memorable special gathering that will stand the test of time and represents this music at its best” said Newton.
The song, “Graves Mountain Memories,” was performed by: Lou Reid (Vocal), Russell Moore (Vocal), Audie Blaylock (Vocal), Carrie Hassler (Vocal), Carl Jackson (Vocal & Guitar), Mark Newton (Vocal & Guitar) with Sammy Shelor (Banjo); Mike Hartgrove (Fiddle); Wayne Benson (Mandolin), and Mike Anglin (Bass). Other magical and once of a lifetime special performances included:
- “When I Stop Dreaming”, “More Pretty Girls Than One“ – The Crowe Brothers with special guests: Russell Moore, Sammy Shelor and Mike Hartgrove
- “Grandma’s Boardside Cabin“ – The Crowe Brothers (New song written by Josh Crowe)
- “Head Over Heels” – Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings and special guest Brandon Rickman
- “When You Say Nothing At All”, “Crazy”, “I Surrender All“ – Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings
- “High On A Hilltop”, “Sunny Side Of The Mountain“ – Audie Blaylock and Redline
- “Old Dangerfield“ – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guest Wayne Benson
- “Once More” – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guests Russell Moore and Lou Reid
- “Get In Line Brother” – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guests: Russell Moore and Carrie Hassler
- “Lonesome River” – Lou Reid & Carolina with special guest Russell Moore
- “Oh, Lord Have Mercy On My Soul” – Lou Reid & Carolina (a capella)
- “Time”, “When It Rains”, “Amanda Lynn” (Hits) – Lou Reid & Carolina
- “Hold What’cha Got“ – Lonesome River Band with special guest Audie Blaylock
- “Roll In My Sweet Baby’s Arms”, “Cabin Home On The Hill” – Lonesome River Band with special guest The Crowe Brothers
- “Carolyn The Teenage Queen”, “Long Gone”, “Them Blues” (Hits) – Lonesome River Band
- “Wade In The Water” – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out (a capella)
- “John & Mary”, “Erase The Miles”, “Grandpa’s Mandolin”, “Hard Rock Mountain Prison” (Hits) – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
- “I’ve Waited As Long As I Can” – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out with special guest: Mike Hartgrove
- “Ground Speed”, “Home Sweet Home” - ALL-STAR JAM featuring Carl Jackson and Sammy Shelor – Twin Banjos
More about Graves Mountain:
The Graves Mountain Festival of Music has been a tradition for 18 years. Graves Mountain is east of Charlottesville, VA located 38 miles at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Graves Mountain Lodge has been in existence close to 400 years which has been passed down from one generation to the next.
It’s a family operation that is owned by Jimmy and Rachel Graves with their sons Lucky and Lynn. Part of the tradition is their apples, jams and jelly’s which they distribute in the southeast. Over the years, the festival has developed into one of the largest in the State of Virginia – and for that matter, some folks say one of the best in the U.S. Historically, it is arguably one of the hottest markets for bluegrass music. The fans in the area very educated in bluegrass music which has been passed down from one generation to the next.
View a Flickr SLIDESHOW of more photos from Graves Mountain Festival of Music
“My Own Set of Rules” June Chart Update
by Penni on Jun.21, 2010, under News
Congratulations to Lou Reid and Carolina and their new album, “MY OWN SET OF RULES” now available on Rural Rhythm Records. The single, “Amanda Lynn” is #1 this month on Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 30 HOT SINGLES! Here some more signifcant chart success:
JUNE 2010
- #1 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Top 30 Hot Singles - “Amanda Lynn”
- #9 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Top 10 ALBUMS
- #3 – Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine Top 30 Singles – “Amanda Lynn”
- #20 – Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Bluegrass Albums June 2010
- #16 – WBTX Shenandoah Bluegrass Top 20 Playlist – “It’s So Hard to Stumble”
- #1 – Roots Music Report STATE (NC) CHART – June 2010
- #6 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums– 6/18/10
- #6 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums – 6/11/10
- #6 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums– 6/4/10
Chart News “SOUTHERN” Bill Emerson & Sweet Dixie
by Penni on Jun.21, 2010, under News
Congratulations to Bill Emerson & Sweet Dixie! Their new album, “SOUTHERN” is hitting the charts. Here is a sample of June 2010 CHARTS!
- #3 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 10 ALBUMS “SOUTHERN”
- #4 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 25 Hot Singles “I Don’t Care Anymore”
- #8 – Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Albums June 2010
- #13 – Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine Top 15 Albums “SOUTHERN”
- #16 – Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine Top 30 Singles “I Don’t Care Anymore”
- #18 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 – 6/18/10
- #17 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 – 6/11/10
- #17 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 – 6/4/10
Chart News “Cryin’ Heart Blues” Audie Blaylock & Redline
by Penni on Jun.21, 2010, under News
Audie Blaylock & Redline’s second hit album on Rural Rhythm Records titled “CRYIN’ HEART BLUES”. Take a look at recent June 2010 chart news!
- #5 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 10 Albums “CRYIN’ HEART BLUES”
- #16 – Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 30 Hot Singles “Cryin’ Heart Blues”
- #11 (*HOT) Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Albums June 2010
- #20 – WBTX (VA) Shenandoah Top 20 Playlist – “Pray the Clouds Away”
- #38 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums – 6/18/10
- #46 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums – 6/11/10
- #48 – Roots Music Bluegrass Report Top 50 Albums – 6/4/10
Rural Rhythm Records Signs Rodney & The Dillard Band
by Penni on Jul.06, 2010, under News
Rural Rhythm Records Signs RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band
“I Wish Life Was Like Mayberry” Album for September Release
Listen to a Clip of the new single, “There is a Time”
July 6, 2010 (Los Angeles, CA) Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce they have signed RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band to the label and will release the group’s new album, “I WISH LIFE WAS LIKE MAYBERRY” on September 28, 2010. RODNEY DILLARD is a founding member of the legendary group THE DILLARDS, and beloved member of the most often seen Bluegrass group in the world, THE DARLINGS. His long and illustrious career has resulted in two GRAMMY® Nominations, induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, a well-known acting stint on The Andy Griffith Show, and worldwide acclaim for over 50 years of recording both traditional bluegrass and his own brand of “DillardGrass”.
In 1962, THE DILLARDS, who had a new recording contract with Elektra Records, were asked by the producers of The Andy Griffith Show to play a bluegrass-playing family (The Darlings), whose patriarch was to be played by popular Hollywood actor Denver Pyle… and to this day THE DILLARDS are seen nearly every day somewhere in the world thanks to the still enormous popularity of The Andy Griffith Show re-runs. October 2010 is the 50th Anniversary of the first airing of this popular show.
Rodney Dillard wrote and collaborated with others to write such classic songs as “There Is A Time”, “The Darlin’ Boys”, “Ebo Walker”, and “Dooley.” These songs, plus more DILLARD and MAYBERRY classics, can be found on their upcoming album.
“I WISH LIFE WAS LIKE MAYBERRY” contains all the Darlings / Dillards classics performed here by RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band including the first radio single release, “There Is A Time.” The song will be released to both bluegrass and country radio stations on July 19th via Rural Rhythm Record’s Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks CD and also available at www.AirplayDirect.com
In addition to all the classics, there are four new original songs written by RODNEY DILLARD and friends of Rodney including: “There Goes The Neighborhood”, “Wicker Rocking Chair”, “The Mayberry Hat” and “The Andy Griffith Show”.
As a BONUS, the album will also contain five episodes from the popular radio show “Mayberry Minute” – a show that ran nationally for 3 years and was narrated by RODNEY DILLARD.
RODNEY DILLARD & THE DILLARD BAND have been chosen as an official International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Showcase performer at this year’s IBMA World of Bluegrass held in Nashville, TN this coming October. For more information, please visit: Rodneydillard.tv/ and RuralRhythm.com
CONTACT INFO:
Public Relations / Booking for Rodney Dillard:
Adrian Beck
314-484-3579
ALBUM PUBLICITY / RADIO SUPPORT:
Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel
678-377-3298
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