Michael Martin Murphey’s album, TALL GRASS & COOL WATER, Cowboy Songs Volume 6 / Buckaroo Bluegrass 3 hit #1 this month on the Top 20 Western Music Albums Chart of the Western Music Association. Previously the album hit #4 on Billboard’s Top 10 Bluegrass Album Chart.

TALL GRASS & COOL WATER continues the connection between Cowboy and Bluegrass music that began with his Grammy® nominated BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS album and continued with BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS II.  The third of the series, TALL GRASS & COOL WATER is a collection of songs that are cowboy in theme yet played in a style that is compatible with the sterling bluegrass musicians he's brought together including Sam Bush, Ronnie McCoury, Pat Flynn, Charlie Cushman, Andy Hall, Andy Leftwich, Troy Engle, Mike Bub and Craig Nelson.

Michael Martin Murphey just wrapped up his annual Cowboy Christmas tour, selling out 18 of 20 halls in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Colorado.  Upcoming performances include the Victoria Fine Arts Center (Victoria, TX), Western Folklife Center (Elko, NV), Central Washington University Music Center (Ellensburg, WA) and many more.  For more information on MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY including additional tour dates, please visit:  MichaelMartinMurphey.com.

Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out continue to top the bluegrass radio charts with their hit new album PRIME TYME on Rural Rhythm Records.  The album is #1 on the February 2012 Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s (BU) Top 15 Album chart along with their single, “If Your Heart Should Ever Roll This Way Again” also reaching #1 on the BU Top 30 Songs.  Another popular song, “Pretty Little Girl From Galax” made its debut this month at #30 on the BU Top 30 Songs.Fans can tune into WAMU Radio this Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 11:00 ET when host, Lee Michael Demsey will interview Russell Moore on the “Bluegrass Unlimited Top 30 Countdown” radio show to discuss more about the band and PRIME TYME.Not only are fans and radio hosts singing the praises of Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, but critics certainly agree.  Jerome Clark of Rambles.net raved, “These guys do not disappoint, really, on any level. They're pros, they play marvelously, and they know good songs when they hear them,” with Jack Bernhardt of the Raleigh News Observer saying, “Moore and the band are in prime form throughout, a testament to the years and the miles of near-constant touring, recording and performing before legions of the most loyal fans in 'grass.”Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out are now on tour and will soon announce details about their 20th Celebration Concert taking place June 2, 2012 at the popular Bluegrass Underground.  For more information on the band and PRIME TYME, please visit IIIrdTymeOut.com

Lonesome River Band will perform on Music City Roots on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 7:00 pm CT.  This live concert and radio show is held at the Loveless Cafe located at 8400 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN and streamed at MusicCityRoots.com. Also performing are: Darrell Scott, Chris Jones & The Night Drivers, Darrin and Brooke Aldridge, and Special Consensus.  Tickets are $10 and $5 with Student ID.Rural Rhythm Records just released  Lonesome River Band's new single “Close the Door Lightly When You Go” from their upcoming album, CHRONOLOGY, Volume One.  The album is set for release February 28, 2012 and celebrates Lonesome River Band's 30th Anniversary.  This retrospective collection includes  24 songs to be released in a series of three 8-song EPs - one for each decade of LRB's existence.  The material will lean heavily on updated versions of many of the LRB’s most popular songs during each decade, reprised by the current LRB line-up.  CHRONOLOGY, Volume One is now available for pre-orders on the band's website.Lonesome River Band has been in the news with numerous events lately including their new Strictly Country Magazine Spirit Award for Song of the Year for "Record Time Machine" (from STILL LEARNING album), plus Sammy Shelor's 2012 SPBGMA Nomination for Banjo Performer of the Year.  Shelor was also a recipient of the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass award that included an appearance and performance (watch video) by Lonesome River Band and special guest Steve Martin on The Late Show with David Letterman last November.Lonesome River Band includes the talents of: Sammy Shelor (banjo and harmony vocals); Brandon Rickman (guitar, lead & harmony vocals); Mike Hartgrove (fiddle); Barry Reed (bass and harmony vocals), and Randy Jones (mandolin, lead & harmony vocals).  Please visit LonesomeRiverBand.com for more information.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the new single, “Life Goes On” by the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer®.  The title track surely speaks to the heart and soul and gives us a glimpse of the all-star power contained on this exciting new 2 CD Set releasing March 27, 2012.  This beautiful song was written by Dale Pyatt and Steve Thomas and includes lead vocals by Jerry Salley, Carl Jackson, Rickey Wasson, Larry Cordle, and Ronnie Bowman.  It was recently released on the label's Fresh Cuts & Key tracks radio compilation CD and is now available at AirplayDirect.com.“Life Goes On” also includes the talents of: Ron Stewart (Fiddle); Jim VanCleve (Fiddle); Alan Bibey (Mandolin); Clay Hess (Guitar);  Randy Kohrs (Harmony vocal, Dobro); Jay Weaver (Bass); and Garnet Bowman, Ashley Kohrs, D.A. Adkins, Len Butler, Gary Payne, and Dale “Chicken Grease” Pyatt (Harmony Vocals).The LIFE GOES ON album was recorded live during the annual MACC festivals from 2006 - 2011 with the exception of the new single "Life Goes On" that was recorded at Randy Kohrs' Slack Key Studio in Nashville, TN.Proceeds from the festival benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.  Performers at the festival generously donate their time and talent to this cause.  MACC was founded by Darrel & Phyllis Adkins in honor of their daughter, Mandy who lost her battle with cancer on November 25, 2000.  LIFE GOES ON is the next chapter for this important music project and once again the Bluegrass music community has stepped up and supported the project with open arms and a big heart. For more information on Musicians Against Childhood Cancer, please visit their website at BluegrassClassic.com

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce today's new album release, CHRONOLOGY, VOLUME ONE by the award-winning LONESOME RIVER BAND.  The album is the first of three 8 song EPS releasing this year commemorating the band’s thirty year milestone.   “Lonesome River Band has done what few bands have done, continuously reinvented itself through the years, staying both popular and relevant,” said Keith Lawrence (Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer and Bluegrass Notes Reviewer).The CHRONOLOGY series features updated versions of many of the Lonesome River Band’s most popular songs during each decade with the talents of Virginia Country Music Hall of Famer and four-time IBMA Banjo Player of the Year, Sammy Shelor (Banjo); Brandon Rickman (Harmony Vocal, Guitar); Mike Hartgrove (Fiddle); Barry Reed (Harmony Vocal, Bass); and Randy Jones (Lead Vocal, Mandolin). CHRONOLOGY, VOLUME ONE was produced by Lonesome River Band and includes the tracks:1.       Close the Door Lightly When You Go (E. Anderson) – first single release2.       The Old Man In the Shanty (John Michael Green)3.       Laura Jean (Jim Burns)4.       The Game Is Over (David Carroll)5.       Mary Ann (Johnny Stills, Lonnie Treat)6.       I’m Afraid To Love You Anymore (Jimmie Skinner)7.       Hobo Blues (Billy Smith)8.       Angeline The Baker (instrumental)Fans can tune into WSM Radio today at 9:00 AM (Central) when host Bill Cody welcomes Sammy Shelor and Brandon Rickman to the show. On Wednesday Shelor will be appear on WorldwideBluegrass.com with host Terry Poirier at 10:30 AM (Eastern) and later in the day with live in-studio interview with hosts Jay Allen and Sherry Boyd on WBRF Radio in Galax, Virginia at 8:00 PM.Lonesome River Band has two previous #1 albums on Rural Rhythm, STILL LEARNING and NO TURNING BACK, that topped album and single charts such as Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine, Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine, Cashbox Magazine, Power Source Magazine, Roots Music Report Top 50 Bluegrass, SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction Most Played Tracks and Most Played Artists, and many more. They were also involved in two live album projects for the label including: the recently released A BILL MONROE 100TH YEAR CELEBRATION – LIVE AT BEAN BLOSSOM, produced by Sammy Shelor; plus THE ALL-STAR JAM – LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN, produced by Mark Newton, that received four 2010 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award nominations including one for ALBUM OF THE YEAR.In November 2011, the Lonesome River Band with special guest, Steve Martin performed on The Late Show with David Letterman in celebration of Sammy Shelor’s award for The Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.  Martin and Shelor sat down with the late night host who proudly displayed the award followed by an incredible performance of “Molly” (NO TURNING BACK) by band members, Brandon Rickman (lead vocals and guitar), Mike Hartgrove (fiddle), Barry Reed (bass and harmony vocals), Randy Jones (mandolin and harmony vocals) along with Steve Martin and Sammy Shelor on banjo. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding CHRONOLOGY Volumes Two and Three including details on a big event celebration scheduled for later this year. For more information on the Lonesome River Band including upcoming tour dates, please visit LonesomeRiverBand.com.

Acclaimed entertainer, musician and songwriter, Mike Scott is proud to announce his third tour of Israel.  Mike Scott & The Nashville Band will set out for an eight day tour May 2-8, 2012 that includes a headlining performance at the Jacob’s Ladder 36th Annual Spring Festival at the Nof Ginnosar Hotel in Magda, Israel on May 3-5, 2012.  The festival is located on the shores of The Sea of Galilee” and is Israel’s “Largest Family Festival” showcasing talent from around the world.  Mike and his band will be the only performers from the United States and are honored to represent our country at this festival.July 8-23, 2012, Mike will begin a European tour with his longtime friend and fellow musician and singer-songwriter, Wayne Taylor. Mike will perform along with Wayne Taylor & Appaloosa as a Featured Artist for two weeks with performances in Norway, Germany, The Netherlands, and Scotland.Mike can be seen on the upcoming RFD TV Special, “David Frizzell & Friends.” This TV Show was produced February 15, 2012 at The Ernest Tubb Record Shop in Nashville, TN. The show airs on RFD TV March 29-30, 2012.  Mike performs banjo as a featured artist with David on the song “Always Late With Your Kisses” – A Lefty Frizzell Classic.  Other guests on the show include: Mo Bandy, Jett Williams, and Jimmy Fortune.   Mike also recorded three songs on David’s newly released CD project, “Frizzell & Friends” that was recently released.Mike Scott has two albums on Rural Rhythm Records: BLUE MOON OF KENTUCKY – 100TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO BILL MONROE (18 instrumental tracks) with Mike Scott Adam Steffey, Bryan Sutton, Tim Stafford, Rob Ickes, Aubrey Haynie, Mike Compton, and Ben Isaacs; and TAKE ME LORD AND USE ME with Mike Scott,  Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Sonja Isaacs, Claire Lynch, Rhonda Vincent, Carl Jackson, Buck White, Jesse McReynolds, John Maberry,  Jason Carter, Jesse Cobb, Ferrell Stowe,  Dennis Crouch,  Tim Carter, and Danny Carter.Not only is Mike busy with performances with his band and also as a featured artist, but he also regularly performs with Ronnie Reno & The Reno Tradition.  For a complete tour schedule and videos, please visit MikeScottMusic.com.

Multi-award winning bluegrass band, BRAND NEW STRINGS announced details of their CD Release Party for their new album STAY TUNED releasing on Nashville's Rural Rhythm Records later this month.  The event will take place Friday, March 23, 2012 at Margaritaville located at 322 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201 at 8:00 pm on the Second Floor Stage.  Admission is $5.00.  Valet parking is recommended with a special CD Release event price of $8.00.  For more information on Margaritaville, please call (615) 208-9080.Rural Rhythm Records recently released the first radio single, “Other Side of Lonesome” via their Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks radio compliation CD and the track is also available at AirplayDirect.com.  STAY TUNED is set for release March 27, 2012 and includes the talents of: Randall Massengill (lead & harmony vocals, guitar, metal body guitar); Mike Ramsey (lead & harmomy vocals, mandolin); Stuart Wyrick (banjo); Preston Schmidt (fiddle); Tony Mowell (upright bass); and guest musicians Corey Meuchel (percussion); Brandon Bostic (resonator guitar); and Paul Niehaus (steel guitar).Brand New Strings has a previous band album on the label titled, NO STRINGS ATTACHED and were also part of two other Rural Rhythm albums THE ALL-STAR JAM – LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN and the BILL MONROE 100TH YEAR CELEBRATION – LIVE AT BEAN BLOSSOM.Brand New Strings formed in 2008 and immediately received numerous awards and recognitions including, but not limited to: 2010 International Bluegrass Music Association Showcase Artist; 2010 nomination for Bluegrass Band of the Year by the French Country Music Awards; Winner of the 2009 International Band Championship by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA); Winner of the 2008 Band Championship by the Smoky Mountain Fiddler's Convention; and Winner of the 2008 Band Championship by the Cumberland River Bluegrass Festival.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the highly anticipated new album release, LIFE GOES ON by the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer® is now released.  This new 2 CD set is now available for purchase at Amazon.com, County Sales, Ernest Tubb Records Shops, the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer website, Rural Rhythm Records, directly through the participating artists and many more locations.  LIFE GOES ON was recorded live during the annual MACC festivals from 2006 - 2011 with the exception of the new single "Life Goes On" that was recorded at Randy Kohrs' Slack Key Studio in Nashville, TN. 

Tracks include:

Disc 1

01  GOODBYE TO THE BLUES – Johnson Mountain Boys

02  BEYOND THE SUNSET– Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey, Josh Swift

03  RAGGED MAN – Gibson Brothers

04  I GOT A WOMAN – Pine Mountain Railroad

05  PLEASE COME TO BOSTON – New Found Road

06  SIX FEET UNDER THE GROUND – Michael Cleveland and Fame Keeper

07  IN THE TIME THAT YOU GAVE ME – Shawn Camp

08  GOIN’ ACROSS THE SEA – J. D. Crow & The New South

09  HIGHWAY OF SORROW – Junior Sisk

10  FRAULEIN – Lost and Found

11  RAIN AND SNOW – Brandon Rickman (Lonesome River Band)

12  REVELATION – Bradley Walker 

13  PANHANDLE COUNTRY – Clay Hess & Friends

14  ACROSS THE GREAT DIVIDE – Josh Williams Band

15  FORTY YEARS – David Parmely & Continental Divide

16  THE WATER IS WIDE – Rhonda Vincent & The Rage

17  HARD TIMES – The Grascals

18  PAUL’S MINISTRY – Paul Williams

19  STRUTTIN’ TO FERRUM – Lonesome River Band

20  BLUE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN – The SteelDrivers

DISC 2

01  MANZANITA – Tony Rice

02  ROLLIN’ AND TUMBLIN’ - Dudley Connell, Randy Kohrs

03  PRECIOUS MEMORIES – Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver

04  LITTLE JOHN I AM – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out

05  TENNESSEE WHISKEY – Chris Stapleton, Morgane Hayes, Bradley Walker

06  SMASHVILLE – Sierra Hull & Highway 111

07  GIVE MY LOVE TO ROSE – Sally Connell, Dudley Connell

08  WHERE THE NEVER DIES  - Don Rigsby & Josh Williams

09  NOTHING BUT A WHIPPORWILL – Blue Highway

10  THE WATER SO COLD – Marty Raybon and Full Circle

11  THE TURKEY BUZZARD – Joe Mullins & Aubry Hayine

12  HE DIED A ROUNDER AT 21 – Junior Sisk, Randy Kohrs, Josh Williams

13  THE LIKES OF ME – Randy Kohrs Band

14  SHOUTING TIME IN HEAVEN – Kenny & Amanda Smith

15  AT THE END OF THE A LONG LONELY – Danny Paisley & Southern Grass

16  MEMORIES OF MOTHER – James King

17  I SHOULD’VE CALLED – Larry Stephenson

18  OLD VIOLIN – Larry Cordle, Michael Cleveland

19  LIFE GOES ON – Jerry Salley, Carl Jackson, Ronnie Bowman, Rickey Wasson, Larry Cordle

Rural Rhythm Records will soon release a new music video of the first single, “Life Goes On.” The song  is currently #8 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart.  The VIDEO was filmed at Liberty Church in Gallatin, TN during the week of the 2012 SPBGMA convention and features Jerry Salley, Carl Jackson, Larry Cordle, Rickey Wasson, and directed by brothers, Sammy Passamano III and Anthony Passamano of Rural Rhythm Records. 

Although the video is still in production, the label has released a short clip as shown above.  Family memory photos are courtesy of the musicians involved in this project and Darrel Adkins.  Darrell and Phyllis Adkins founded Musicians Against Childhood Cancer in honor of their daughter, Mandy who lost her battle with cancer on November 25, 2000.  Proceeds from the annual festival benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Award-winning female vocalist, CARRIE HASSLER will kick off her new album, THE DISTANCE at a CD Release Block Party on Saturday, April 28, 2012 in downtown Pikeville, TN at 4:00 pm.  The event will include performances by DALE ANN BRADLEY, STEVE GULLEY, Harlan, Kentucky based national touring act and fellow Rural Rhythm Records label-mate, CUMBERLAND RIVER, and many more special guests.  This free event will take place in downtown Pikeville adjacent to Carrie’s family owned restaurant, LITTLE MAGGIE’S. 

THE DISTANCE releases April 24, 2012 and showcases Carrie’s tremendous vocal talent which to date has produced #1 songs and chart hits around the world.  The album includes the award-winning talents of: Tim Stafford (guitar); Ron Stewart (banjo); Justin Moses (fiddle); Alan Bibey (mandolin); Mark Fain (bass); Mark Laws (Percussion); Dale Ann Bradley (harmony vocals), and the album’s producer Steve Gulley (harmony vocals).

The songs on this special new project were especially written for Carrie by some of today’s top songwriters including:  Carl Jackson, Tim Stafford, Steve Gulley, Mark Wheeler, Jennifer Strickland, Bobby K. Boyd and Ashley McBryde.  Tracks include: “Luxury Liner,” “All I Have To Do Is Breathe,” “Catch My Breath,” “Keep Your Memory Warm,” “Eugene & Diane,” “Give Me Love,” “Get Me Over You,” and “The Distance.”

Fans will no doubt be thrilled to hear her wide range of musical styles that represent her incredible vocal talent and diversity as she performs heart and soul love songs, beautiful ballads, Patsy Cline Country, Country Inspirational, to a hard driving bluegrass song.

Carrie’s previous albums on Rural Rhythm Records earned her a string of #1s on a wide variety of radio charts including: “I Can Go Back Anytime,”  “Faith & Hope,” “Country Strong,”  “Leaving You Behind,”  “Second Chances,” “Least That I Can Do,” along with Top 10 hits and fan favorites such as “Seven Miles From Wichita” and “Going on the Next Train.”

Carrie Hassler is nationally sponsored by Chattanooga, TN based company MOON PIE.  For more information on Carrie, please visit CarrieHassler.com and RuralRhythm.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the new single, “A Natural Thing” by AUDIE BLAYLOCK & REDLINE. The song was written by Harley Allan and includes the talents of Audie Blaylock (lead vocals, guitar), Jesse Brock (mandolin); Patrick McAvinue (fiddle); Russ Carson (banjo); and Jason Moore (bass). The single has been released to radio via the label’s Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks CD and also available at AirplayDirect.com“A Natural Thing” is the first single from the band’s upcoming album, HARD COUNTRY set for release this summer. “I chose the name HARD COUNTRY because I think it really defines the music on this disc. It still has that hard-driving bluegrass edge – then changes into slower paced ballad type songs as well, which really show cases the versatility of this band. It also shows just how closely bluegrass and country music are related,” explained Audie.AUDIE BLAYLOCK & REDLINE are still celebrating their album, I’M GOING BACK TO OLD KENTUCKY (A Bill Monroe Celebration) that previously hit #1 on the Bluegrass Today’s Weekly Song Chart. The album is definitely a sure fire hit with radio with five songs (Cry Cry Darlin’, I’m Going Back to Old Kentucky, In Despair, Mighty Dark to Travel, and Out in the Cold) appearing on a variety of charts. Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine gave this project a big thumbs up saying, “The vocal work by Blaylock and others is topnotch, the instrumental support is right on the mark, and the Father of Bluegrass would no doubt find this release very much to his liking,” with Country Standard Time raving, “Put it on, turn it up, and drift away!”AUDIE BLAYLOCK & REDLINE have several other albums on the Rural Rhythm label including AUDIE BLAYLOCK & REDLINE, CRYIN HEART BLUES, plus two live album projects, LIVE AT BEAN BLOSSOM (with Lonesome River Band, Russell More & IIIrd Tyme Out, Ronnie Reno, Blue Moon Rising, Bobby Osborne and many more) and THE ALL-STAR JAM – LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN (with the Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Lonesome River Band, Carl Jackson, Mark Newton, Carrie Hassler, Crowe Brothers, Lou Reid and Carolina, and Brand New Strings).AUDIE BLAYLOCK & REDLINE are now on tour including the Old Settler’s Music Festival in Austin, TX on April 21st, Country Bluegrass Show in North Platte, NE on April 26th and many more. For a complete tour schedule and more information, please visit AudieBlaylock.com and www.facebook.com/audieblaylock&redline.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce a live performance taping for the upcoming Lost Echoes Production TV special BLUEGRASS COMES TO THE VALLEY.  This FREE event will take place at the Renfro Valley Entertainment Center in Renfro Valley, Kentucky on May 15, 2012 at 1:00 pm.  Ronnie Reno will serve as Host and fans will certainly line up to see performances by Marty Raybon, Audie Blaylock & Redline, Carrie Hassler, Rodney Dillard & The Dillard Band, and the Darrell Webb Band.This exciting new show will debut on Reno’s Old Time Music Festival” on RFD-TV hosted by Ronnie Reno and airing later this year on BlueHighways TV (air dates to be announced at a later time.)  This event is supported by the Mt. Vernon-RockCastle County Tourist Commission and the City of Mt. Vernon.  Renfro Valley is known as “Kentucky’s Country Music Capital”, and has been a tourism destination since 1939.  The producers of the TV show taping are encouraging fans to come early, before the show, to enjoy the food, charm and attractions of this community.   It is conveniently located just off I-75 at exit 62.The BLUEGRASS IN THE VALLEY performers are celebrating numerous successful albums on the Rural Rhythm Records label.  Marty Raybon has two new album releases, HAND TO THE PLOW and SOUTHERN ROOTS AND BRANCHES currently appearing on a variety of Country, Christian and Bluegrass Charts.  Top female vocalist, Carrie Hassler is already receiving critical acclaim for her brand new album, THE DISTANCE.  This exciting new project includes the single, “Luxury Liner” that made its debut last week on BLUEGRASS TODAY’s Top Airplay Charts.Bluegrass fans love high energy performances and will no doubt be thrilled to see:  Audie Blaylock & Redline who are gearing up for their new album HARD COUNTRY releasing next month; Rodney Dillard & The Dillard Band who entertain audiences around the country and have two popular albums on the label (DON’T WAIT FOR THE HEARSE TO TAKE YOU TO CHURCH and I WISH LIFE WAS LIKE MAYBERRY); and the Darrell Webb Band who has a current album (BLOODLINE) and a gearing up for a new album releasing later this summer on the label.For more information on Rural Rhythm and performers, please visit RuralRhythm.com.  For more information about Mt. Vernon/Renfro Valley, visit RenfroValley.com and RockCastleTourism.com

Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce CARRIE HASSLER debuts at #10 this week on Billboard Magazine's Bluegrass Album Chart with her new release, THE DISTANCE.  “This set finds Hassler turning in a heartfelt vocal performance that puts her vocal and interpretative skills front and center with her claiming that real estate like a super pro that never has to look back.  The kind of Nashville album that fans have been clamoring for and complaining just isn’t made any more, this is proof that mainstream doesn’t have to be a dirty word.  Simply a super country album throughout,” says Midwest Record Reviews.Numerous tracks are hits with both Radio and Media alike.  The title cut, “The Distance” (written by Ashley McBryde) debuted last week on the U.K. Hot Disc Country Radio Airplay Chart with “Luxury Liner” (written by Gram Parsons) making its debut at #15 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart (5/4).   “Carrie Hassler’s 'Luxury Liner' carried me away.  Super tempo, superb vocals, and top of the line pickin’ plus a nod to Emmylou’s version.  Gram would’ve loved it,” raved Barry Tashian (Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band).Music News Nashville has their favorite saying, “Maybe the gem of the collection is the stunning 'Catch My Breath', which sounds like something that could be straight from the pages of Connie Smith a la 1967. Hassler has been paying her dues and growing as an artist for a long time now, and with THE DISTANCE, I think it’s obvious she’s ready for that next step!” “Catch My Breath” was written by Bobby K. Boyd (Hassler’s cousin) and Dale Roberson.THE DISTANCE also includes the award-winning talents of: Tim Stafford (guitar); Ron Stewart (banjo); Justin Moses (fiddle); Alan Bibey (mandolin); Mark Fain (bass); Mark Laws (Percussion); Dale Ann Bradley (harmony vocals), and the album’s producer Steve Gulley (harmony vocals).For more information on Carrie Hassler, please visit CarrieHassler.com, Facebook and follow her on Twitter.  For more information on Rural Rhytym Records, please visit RuralRhythm.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the May 22, 2012 album release, NEW BLUEGRASS & OLD HEARTACHES by BOBBY OSBORNE & THE ROCKY TOP X-PRESS.  The album was produced by Glen Duncan, Bobby Osborne and Boj (Bobby Osborne, Jr.) and contains new and old songs that will surely delight Bobby’s fans worldwide and celebrate his impressive 60 year career.

Highlights from NEW BLUEGRASS & OLD HEARTACHES include the first single release, “I’m Going Back To The Mountain” written by Jake Landers who also penned “The Old Oak Tree.”  A newly recorded “Muddy Waters” written Phil Rosenthal is certainly another stand out track as well.  The song was originally intended for release on the Osborne Brothers last Decca Records album in the early 70’s, but never released. Other highlights include a wonderful rediscovered song Bobby wrote many years ago titled “The Last Bridge You’ll Ever Burn” plus a newly written anthem type song titled “Born In Kentucky”.

TRACKS on the album include:

1.       I’M GOING BACK TO THE MOUNTAIN

2.       ONE MORE TIME

3.       HEARTACHE LOOKING FOR A HOME

4.       MUDDY WATERS

5.       I WRECKED MY LIFE FOR YOU

6.       THE OLD OAK TREE

7.       THE LAST BRIDGE YOU’LL EVER BURN

8.       WHY DON’T YOU TURN ME LOOSE

9.       LOW AND LONELY

10.     BORN IN KENTUCKY

BOBBY OSBORNE is an American Music Legend.  From his first recorded hit in 1949, to his membership in The Grand Ole Opry in 1964, to "Rocky Top" in 1967 - BOBBY OSBORNE has been one of the most influential singers and mandolin players in the history of Bluegrass and Country music.  He was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in 2002, inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Hall of Fame (Lonesome Pine Fiddlers) in 2009, and has recorded two State songs - “Rocky Top (Tennessee)” and “Kentucky” (Kentucky).

One of bluegrass music's favorite groups, LONESOME RIVER BAND debuted songs from their CHRONOLOGY VOLUME TWO album last weekend in front of 10,000 attendees of the popular RudyFest Festival in Kentucky.  The album officially releases next Tuesday, July 3, 2012 on Rural Rhythm Records and is the second of three 8 song EPS releasing this year commemorating LONESOME RIVER BAND’s 30th anniversary.Today's new single release, "I Barely Beat The Daylight In" from CHRONOLOGY, VOLUME TWO comes right on the heels of their current chart single, “Close the Door Lightly When You Go” from CHRONOLOGY, VOLUME ONE.  That song is continuing to climb the charts including appearing on Bluegrass Today’s Top 20 Airplay Chart, Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine's Top 30 Songs, Bluegrass Music Profiles Top 30 Hot Singles, SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction Most Played Tracks and many more.LONESOME RIVER BAND includes the talents of BRANDON RICKMAN (Guitar and Lead & Harmonoy Vocals); MIKE HARGROVE (fiddle); BARRY REED (Upright Bass and Harmony Vocals); RANDY JONES (Mandolin and Lead & Harmony Vocals), and led by Virginia Country Music Hall of Famer and multi-award winning IBMA Banjo Player of the Year winner, SAMMY SHELOR.  Last November, Shelor earned yet another award for his talents when he and the band appeared with special guest, STEVE MARTIN on The Late Show with David Letterman where he was presented The Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass followed by a performance with Lonesome River Band and Steve Martin.LONESOME RIVER BAND has numerous other albums on the label including STILL LEARNING and NO TURNING BACK, and also part of three others including the recently released LIFE GOES ON by the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN,  A BILL MONROE 100TH YEAR CELEBRATION – LIVE AT BEAN BLOSSOM, produced by Sammy Shelor; plus THE ALL-STAR JAM – LIVE AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN that received four 2010 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA)award nominations including one for ALBUM OF THE YEAR.CHRONOLOGY, VOLUMES ONE and TWO, along with more albums by LONESOME RIVER BAND, are available free to radio at AirplaydDirect.comStay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding a huge anniversary celebration for CHRONOLOGY VOLUME THREE taking place this September.  For more information on the Lonesome River Band including upcoming tour dates, please visit LonesomeRiverBand.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the album LIFE GOES ON by the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer® (MACC) is #8 this week on Billboard Magazine’s Top 10 Bluegrass Album Chart. The album was recorded live during the annual MACC festivals from 2006 – 2011 with the exception of the first single release, “Life Goes On” that was recorded at Randy Kohrs’ Slack Key Studio in Nashville, TN. The label recently released a new video of the song that can be viewed on the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer website BluegrassClassic.com

Yesterday, the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) released the second of three ballots for the 2012 IBMA awards and LIFE GOES ON plus numerous tracks are candidates for nomination  for some of the top awards including Song of the Year, Album of the Year, along with three in the Recorded Event of the Year category:

Song of the Year – “Life Goes On”

Album of the Year – LIFE GOES ON

Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year – “Beyond The Sunset”
Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey, Josh Swift

Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year – “Manzanita”
Tony Rice, Josh Williams, Aaron Ramsey, Aubrey Haynie, Rob Ickes

Recorded Event of the Year – “Beyond The Sunset”
Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey, Josh Swift

Recorded Event of the Year – “Life Goes On”
Carl Jackson, Ronnie Bowman, Larry Cordle, Jerry Salley, Rickey Wasson, Randy Kohrs, D.A. Adkins, Garnet Bowman, Lynn Butler, Ashley Kohrs, Gary Payne, Dale Pyatt, Clay Hess, Alan Bibey, Jay Weaver, Ron Stewart, Jim VanCleve

Recorded Event of the Year – “Old Violin”

Larry Cordle and Michael Cleveland

The album also includes even more top musicians with the talents of: Lonesome River Band, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Marty Raybon & Full Circle, Shawn Camp, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, The Grascals, Johnson Mountain Boys, J. D. Crowe & The New South, Gibson Brothers, Pine Mountain Railroad, Lost & Found, Bradley Walker, New Found Road, Michael Cleveland and Flame Keeper, Junior Sisk, Josh Williams Band, David Parmley & Continental Divide, Paul Williams, The SteelDrivers, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Hayes, Sierra Hull & Highway 111, Sally Connell, Dudley Connell, Don Rigsby, Blue Highway, Joe Mullins, Aubry Hayine, Kenny & Amanda Smith, Danny Paisley & Southern Grass, James King, Larry Stephenson, and many more.

Darrel and Phyllis Adkins founded Musicians Against Childhood Cancer in honor of their daughter, Mandy who lost her battle with cancer on November 25, 2000. Proceeds from the annual festival and album benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. For more information on Musicians Against Childhood Cancer, please visit their website at BluegrassClassic.com

This new 2 CD set is available for available through all digital vendors including iTunes, Amazon and more, along with physical CD purchase at Amazon, County Sales, Ernest Tubb Records Shops, the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer website, Rural Rhythm Records, directly through the participating artists and many more locations. For more information on Rural Rhythm Records, please visit RuralRhythm.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the upcoming July 31, 2012 new album, PORTRAIT OF A BLUEGRASS SONGWRITER by RAY EDWARDS.  All songs were written or co-written by Ray who is joined by some of the top musicians in Bluegrass music including:  Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Marty Raybon, Lou Reid, Darrell Webb, Grasstowne, Jeanette Williams, Nu-Blu, and more.The label recently released the first single “My Name Is Jimmy Martin (Do You Remember Me?)” that is now available on AirplayDirect.com.Tracks on PORTRAIT OF A BLUEGRASS SONGWRITER include:01  Hard Rock Mountain Prision (Til I Die) – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out02  When The Love We Have Is Gone – Darrell Webb Band03  Blue Ridge Mountain Snow – Nu-Blu04  Heartbreak Hall Of Fame – Monroeville05  I’ll Be Over You – Carolina Road06  Windy Ridge – Ray Edwards & Hard Rock Mountain07  My Name Is Jimmy Martin (Do You Remember Me?) – Ray Edwards & Hard Rock Mountain (with Marty Raybon, Darrell Webb, Lou Reid, and Russell Moore)08  Blue Ridge Blue – Jeanette Williams09  Old Streamboats And Trains – Grasstowne10  Getting’ Me Some Gone – Special Consensus11  Where My Darlin’ Waits For Me – Ray Edwards & Hard Rock Mountain (with Don Rigsby)12  Will I Stand On The Rock Of Ages – Keith Pyrtle and Ray EdwardsRay is a two-time World Champion Banjo Player.  He has toured and recorded for over thirty years with the likes of Randy Travis, Tom T. Hall, Jeanie C. Riley, Ed Bruce, Lynn Anderson, Sammy Kershaw and many more.  Ray’s songs have been recorded by George Jones, Tom T. Hall and others.PORTRAIT OF A BLUEGRASS SONGWRITER is part of the new SAGE BRUSH MUSIC / RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS Songwriters Album projects.  SAGE BRUSH MUSIC is a sister division with RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS and is working together to showcase the talents of top songwriters in our genre.The album will be available for purchase at RuralRhythm.com, iTunes, Amazon.com, County Sales, Ernest Tubb Records Shops, Elderly Instruments, and many more outlets.

The 38th Annual Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Uncle Pen Days Festival will be held September 19-22, 2012 at the Bill Monroe Memorial Bluegrass Music Park & Campground in Brown County, Indiana.  The 4-day event includes a stellar line-up of over 25 bluegrass bands, instrument and vocal workshops, jam sessions, camping, food, vendors, flea market and fellowship.  Tickets and camping reservations can be purchased by phone at 800-414-4677 or at www.beanblossom.US.Wednesday, September 19, 2012: Kick–off the festival with Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Ronnie Reno & The Reno Tradition, The Boxcars, James King Band, Karl Shiflett & The Big Country Show, Larry Gillis & Swampgrass, and Randy Waller & The Country Gentlemen.Thursday, September 20, 2012:  Audie Blaylock & Redline, The Grascals, Grasstowne, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, Jr. Sisk & Ramblers Choice, Larry Efaw & Mountaineers, Karl Shiflett & The Big Country Show, and Tim Graves, Daryl Mosley & Farm Country.Friday, September 21, 2012: Kick off your weekend with Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press, J. D. Crowe & The New South, Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys, David Parmley & Continental Divide, Newfound Road, Ralph Stanley II, Tommy Brown & County Line Grass, and the Wildwood Valley Boys.Saturday, September 22, 2012: Dr. Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys, Paul Williams & The Victory Trio, J. D. Crowe & The New South, Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, Larry Stephenson Band, Tommy Brown & The County Line Grass, and Don Stanley & Middle Creek.  We also will have Paul Williams HALL OF FAME INDUCTION at 4:00 pm.Bean Blossom is proud to announce PAUL WILLIAMS is this year’s inductee into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame taking place Saturday, September 22, 2012.  Paul’s legendary career began with The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers in the '50s. He then went on to become one of Jimmy Martin's Sunny Mountain Boys in the late '50s and early '60s. In August of 1963, Paul retired from the Bluegrass circuit, but continued to write songs and play in churches and radio broadcasts for the next thirty-three years.  In 1995, Paul formed the VICTORY TRIO with the band’s big break coming with their 2000 Grammy nomination for their album, Old Ways & Old Paths that was re-released on Rebel Records. PAUL WILLIAMS & THE VICTORY TRIO have continued to release great bluegrass gospel albums throughout the years and have garnered numerous other awards and nominations throughout their impressive career.Emcees for The 38th Annual Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Uncle Pen Days Festival are the Legendary Tommy Lamb and George Riddle.  Sound provided by Tom Feller Sound.Each festival ticket includes: admission to the Bluegrass Hall of Fame, Country Star Museum and Uncle Pen’s cabin tour, plus all music and instrument workshops.  There will be plenty of food concessions and merchants. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fun. Shows take place rain or shine.For more information including tickets, directions and complete schedule, please visit BeanBlossom.US.  The 38th Annual Bill Monroe Hall of Fame & Uncle Days is sponsored by:  Martin Guitar, Dillman Furniture, and Hope River Entertainment.

Oh Brother, Oh Sister, Oh SiriusXM!  THE ROYS' new Rural Rhythm Records' CD, NEW DAY DAWNING, enjoys its world premiere on SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction Channel 61 at 8 a.m. ET on July 24.  The new disc hits stores on August 28, but fans can pre-order a signed and discounted copy now on THE ROYS' website.The disc's infectious debut single, "Still Standing," is sure to be heard during the premiere;  the track features Elaine on lead vocals and is already generating strong spins and praise-filled reviews.  An up-tempo tale of perseverance and personal identity, the song showcases the duo's signature harmonies in tradition-making form.  Blazing fiddle and mandolin runs brighten the track, which sets a lightning pace and never once falters.One of the fastest-rising acts in the business, THE ROYS are heralded for a vibrant and progressive instrumental attitude that complements their vocal style.  Their distinctive Roots sound has enchanted fans since the duo arrived in Nashville six years ago.  "It's definitely been a growth process for us," explains Elaine of their unique genre-bending music.  "We have nurtured this sound," adds Lee.  "I think the new music reflects that."  Fans at THE ROYS' recent live shows are calling the engaging “Grandpa’s Barn,” the unforgettable up-tempo “Fast As We Roll,” and the poignant “Living Scrapbook” songs to watch.THE ROYS are thrilled to have new music to offer their fans; their first Rural Rhythm Records’ album, LONESOME WHISTLE, kicked their career into high gear.  The disc's success earned them a spot on BILLBOARD'S Top 50 Bluegrass Albums of 2011 Chart, helped win them Inspirational Country Music’s Bluegrass Artist of the Year award in 2011, and generated a No. 1 single with “Coal Minin’ Man.”  The duo toured extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada in support of that disc and made their debut in Australia this past January.  A jam-packed performance schedule has had the siblings burning up the road all year.  They've just returned from a four-day run at Country Thunder in Twin Lakes, WI, and upcoming shows include:August 2 - Hartford, CT - Podunk BGFAugust 3 - 5 - Stony Plain, AB CAN - Blueberry BGFAugust 24 - Rogersville, NB CAN - Rogersville BGFAugust 30 - 31 - New Richmond, QC CAN - New Richmond BGFSeptember 7 - 8 - Franklin, KY - Franklin Kentucky BGFSeptember 21 - Vine Grove, KY - Vine Grove BGFSeptember 22 - Uperco, MD - Arcadia BGFOctober 4 - 5 - Glen Rose, TX - Paluxy River BGFOctober 11 - Nashville, TN - The Station InnOctober 27 - Great Mills, MD - Flat Iron FarmsFans can catch all the latest news on Lee and Elaine at www.theroysonline.com

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the formation of the new band AMERICAN DRIVE. This high octane bluegrass band includes group members of J.D. Crowe & The New South who are carrying on now that J.D. Crowe has announced his retirement. AMERICAN DRIVE includes the talents of: Rickey Wasson (Lead/harmony Vocals, Guitar), Dwight McCall (Lead/Harmony Vocals, Mandolin), Matt DeSpain (Resonator Guitar) and Kyle Perkins (Bass) from The New South, who are joined by Justin Jenkins (Banjo) formerly with the bands Grasstowne and Blue Moon Rising.“We are so excited about being a part of the AMERICAN DRIVE team. Rickey, Dwight, Matt, Kyle and Justin are about to start a new chapter in their musical journey that will surely delight Bluegrass fans all over the world. THE NEW SOUTH had the absolute privilege of supporting one of our legends in Bluegrass for many years…and now the time has come for them to step into the spotlight and continue to create top notch Bluegrass for years to come,” said Sam Passamano, President of Rural Rhythm Records.Rural Rhythm is also proud to announce today’s new single release, “Long Haul Trucking Man” from AMERICAN DRIVE’s self-titled debut album scheduled for release on October 16, 2012. The song is now available to radio stations at AirplayDirect.com and the track is also included on the label’s Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks disc mailed to radio today.AMERICAN DRIVE will make their debut at the 2012 International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) World of Bluegrass convention during the band’s Official Showcase next month in Nashville, TN. For more information on the IBMA’s week long Business Conference, Awards Show and Fanfest, please visit ibma.org.The band is moving in high gear and will soon be launching a brand new website at AmericanDriveBand.com, but fans can check them out now at Facebook.

The award-winning LONESOME RIVER BAND fresh off a Hollywood, CA performance this past weekend, will head back to Nashville today for three Nashville concerts this week.  The group will no doubt thrill fans with performances at MUSIC CITY ROOTS Live from the Loveless Barn, SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction STUDIO SPECIAL taping (live audience), and WSM Radio’s STATION INN SESSIONS. Following the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) Press Conference this Wednesday at the Loveless Barn where the organization will announce the final nominees for the 2012 IBMA Awards, LONESOME RIVER BAND will perform at the venue for the popular MUSIC CITY ROOTS. The concert kicks off at 7:00 pm and also includes performances by Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Isaacs and Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice.  Tickets are $10, $5 ages 6-18, $5 for students 19 and older that show a valid student ID, and free for children five and under.  Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The Loveless Café Barn is located at 8400 Highway 100, Nashville, TN.Fans are invited to attend a SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction STUDIO SPECIAL taping on Thursday, August 16 at 12:00 noon.  This special concert event by LONESOME RIVER BAND will take place in the theater at SiriusXM located at 509 Broadway, Nashville, TN.Also on Thursday, August 16, LONESOME RIVER BAND will be featured on the WSM Radio’s Station Inn Sessions. The show will kick off at 5:00 pm when host, Mike Terry will interview the band followed by a concert that will air on WSM Radio and stream live at WSMonline.com.  The event is free and fans are invited to be part of this live audience for the interview and live concert.  The Station Inn is located at 402 12th Avenue, Nashville, TN.Rural Rhythm Records has released Volumes One and Two of the band’s CHRONOLOGY album series.  Volume Three is scheduled for release on September 25, 2012.  Moonstruck Management will present an ANNIVERSARY EVENING concert celebrating Lonesome River Band's 30th Anniversary along with label-mate Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme's Out 20th Anniversary on September 26, 2012 at 9:30 pm at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Nashville located at 322 Broadway, Nashville, TN  37201.  Only a few seats remain for this event.  Tickets are $15 (seated) and $10 (standing) and can be purchased at LonesomeRiverBand.com.LONESOME RIVER BAND includes the talents of BRANDON RICKMAN (Guitar, Lead/Harmony Vocals); MIKE HARGROVE (fiddle); BARRY REED (Upright Bass, Harmony Vocals); RANDY JONES (Mandolin, Lead/Harmony Vocals), and led by Virginia Country Music Hall of Famer and multi-award winning IBMA Banjo Player of the Year winner, SAMMY SHELOR.  Last November, Shelor earned yet another honor winning The Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.After this week's busy Nashville appearances, LONESOME RIVER BAND will head back to California performing August 18-19 at the Summergrass Festival in San Diego before heading to Canada at the end of the month.  For a complete tour schedule and more information on LONESOME RIVER BAND, please visit www.LonesomeRiverBand.com.

Moonstruck Management is proud to announce they have signed Sleepy Man Banjo Boys for exclusive booking and management representation.  Brothers Jonny, Robbie, and Tommy Mizzone became a viral sensation last winter sparking a whirlwind year that included performances on The Late Show with David Letterman, NBC’s Today Show, The Grand Ole Opry and many more. "We are so excited to be able to add the Sleepy Man Banjo Boys to the Moonstruck Management roster.  It is a wonderful scenario to be able to sign and work with a group that you were fans of before. The excitement surrounding the boys and their talent has garnered such great media attention and a broad fan base in a very short time. With our progressive vision at Moonstruck, and the SMBB possibilities, it just seemed like a natural and exciting combination. We are thrilled," said Josh Trivett, Moonstruck Management.Earlier this year, Sleepy Man Banjo Boys independently released and distributed their album, “America’s Music” that debuted at #8 on the Billboard Bluegrass Album Chart.  The album garnered strong digital sales, national radio spins, and a flourishing audience of over 10 million youtube videos hits.Fans have certainly rallied around the group again by helping them reach their Kickstarter Campaign goal two days ago that will help fund their upcoming album, “The Farthest Horizon” set for release later this year.The Sleepy Man Banjo Boys are now on tour with upcoming performances at the Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival on September 1, IBMA FanFest in Nashville on September 29, Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival on October. 6, and at the “Tim Janis The American Christmas Carol” concert at Carnegie Hall on November 30 benefiting Kate Winslet’s Golden Hat Foundation. For more information on the Sleepy Man Banjo Boys, please visit sleepymanbanjoboys.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the album LIFE GOES ON by the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer® (MACC) received five International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Award Nominations. The album was Produced by: Jack Campitelli, Bob Kelley and Darrel Adkins.The title track, “Life Goes On” by Carl Jackson, Ronnie Bowman, Larry Cordle, Jerry Salley, Rickey Wasson, Randy Kohrs, D.A. Adkins, Garnet Bowman, Lynn Butler, Ashley Kohrs, Gary Payne, Dale Pyatt, Clay Hess, Alan Bibey, Jay Weaver, Ron Stewart, Jim VanCleve received a nomination for RECORDED EVENT OF THE YEAR.“Beyond the Sunset” with Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey & Josh Swift picked up two Nominations – GOSPEL RECORDED PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR and RECORDED EVENT OF THE YEAR.  “Old Violin” by Larry Cordle & Michael Cleveland also received a nomination for RECORDED EVENT OF THE YEAR making that 3 nods in the same category.“Manzanita” by Tony Rice, Josh Williams, Aaron Ramsey, Aubrey Haynie & Rob Ickes received a nomination for INSTRUMENTAL RECORDED PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR.LIFE GOES ON has appeared several times on Billboard Magazine’s Top 15 Bluegrass Album Chart reaching as high as #4 earlier this month. The album and single, “Life Goes On”, have both appeared on numerous radio charts this year including reaching #1 on Cashbox Magazine, and charting on the Bluegrass Today Monthly and Weekly Charts, SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction's Most Played Tracks and Albums and more.LIFE GOES ON was recorded live during the annual MACC festivals from 2006 – 2011 with the exception of the song “Life Goes On” that was recorded at Randy Kohrs’ Slack Key Studio in Nashville, TN. The label recently released a new video of the song that can be viewed on the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer website BluegrassClassic.com.The album also includes even more top musicians with the talents of: Lonesome River Band, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Marty Raybon & Full Circle, Shawn Camp, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, The Grascals, Johnson Mountain Boys, J. D. Crowe & The New South, Gibson Brothers, Pine Mountain Railroad, Lost & Found, Bradley Walker, New Found Road, Michael Cleveland and Flame Keeper, Junior Sisk, Josh Williams Band, David Parmley & Continental Divide, Paul Williams, The SteelDrivers, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Hayes, Sierra Hull & Highway 111, Sally Connell, Dudley Connell, Don Rigsby, Blue Highway, Joe Mullins, Aubry Hayine, Kenny & Amanda Smith, Danny Paisley & Southern Grass, James King, Larry Stephenson, and many more.Darrel and Phyllis Adkins founded Musicians Against Childhood Cancer in honor of their daughter, Mandy who lost her battle with cancer on November 25, 2000. Proceeds from the annual festival and album benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. For more information on Musicians Against Childhood Cancer, please visit their website at BluegrassClassic.com.This new 2 CD set is available for available through all digital vendors including iTunes, Amazon and more, along with physical CD purchase at Amazon, County Sales, Ernest Tubb Records Shops, the Musicians Against Childhood Cancer website, Rural Rhythm Records, directly through the participating artists and many more locations. For more information on Rural Rhythm Records, please visit RuralRhythm.com. 2012 IBMA NOMINATIONS for LIFE GOES ONGospel Recorded Performance of the Year – “Beyond The Sunset”Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey, Josh SwiftInstrumental Recorded Performance of the Year – “Manzanita”Tony Rice, Josh Williams, Aaron Ramsey, Aubrey Haynie, Rob IckesRecorded Event of the Year – “Beyond The Sunset”Doyle Lawson, Russell Moore, Jamie Dailey, Josh SwiftRecorded Event of the Year – “Life Goes On”Carl Jackson, Ronnie Bowman, Larry Cordle, Jerry Salley, Rickey Wasson, Randy Kohrs, D.A. Adkins, Garnet Bowman, Lynn Butler, Ashley Kohrs, Gary Payne, Dale Pyatt, Clay Hess, Alan Bibey, Jay Weaver, Ron Stewart, Jim VanCleveRecorded Event of the Year – “Old Violin”Larry Cordle and Michael Cleveland

Acclaimed singer-songwriter, MARK HOUSER announced details for the upcoming “Bluegrass on the Green” Concert celebrating the upcoming album release of UNEVEN ROAD by MARK HOUSER & BLUEGRASS DRIVE. The event takes place Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 11:00 am (CT) just off the square at 303 West Main Street in Livingston, Tennessee, “The Home of Americana Music.” The “Bluegrass on the Green” concert will be hosted by Philip Gibbons of COUNTRY GIANT 94.7 Radio.  Houser will be a Gibbon’s guest on the station Thursday, September 6th at 11:00 a.m. This free family friendly event includes FREE BBQ, cupcakes and drinks.  Fans will certainly be thrilled with performances by:11:00 am - Jim Bowman - Mark Houser’s first co-writer and the first artist to cut one of his songs. Jim wrote the hit “Cowboy's Dream” by Mel Tillis in early 80's.)11:30 am -  Delnora Reed - Bluegrass/ Americana artist12:00 pm -  Arlo Gilliam - Bass player with Travis Tritt.  He is the co-writer of the current single, “River of Regret” from Mark Houser & Bluegrass Drive’s upcoming album UNEVEN ROAD and “My Kind of Crazy” by Emerson Drive.12:30 pm -  Wilder Mountain1:00 pm -    Carrie Hassler - Rural Rhythm Recording artist. Long friend of Houser.  She has recorded three Mark Houser songs including the chart topping “Seven Miles From Wichita.”  Carrie is also the co-writer of Mark's current single “River of Regret.”1:30 pm -    Mark HouserUNEVEN ROAD by MARK HOUSER & BLUEGRASS DRIVE releases on Rural Rhythm Records, September 11, 2012.  The label recently released the first single, “River of Regret” written by Mark Houser, Arlo Gilliam, and Carrie Hassler. This exciting new album features the talents of: Rhonda Vincent, Andy Leftwich, Cody Kilby, Barry Bales, Cory Walker, Scotty Sanders, Paul Brewster, Dawn Sears, and more. The album was co-produced by Mark Houser and Little River Band guitarist, Rich Herring.

Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the new self-titled album by AMERICAN DRIVE made its debut on Billboard's Top Bluegrass Albums chart at #11 this week.  Band members Rickey Wasson, Dwight MCall, Matt DeSpain and Kyle Perkins are also celebrating the addition of their new banjo player, Josh Hymer.Fans will certainly agree Josh Hymer’s banjo style, influenced by Earl Scruggs and J.D. Crowe, is a perfect fit to the high octane bluegrass style of AMERICAN DRIVE.  Josh has performed with several groups over the last several years including Ernie Thacker, New River Line, The Bartley Brothers, The Clay Hess Band, and most recently David Parmley and Continental Divide.The band is scheduled to record a SiriusXM Bluegrass Junction Track by Track with host Kyle Cantrell set to air the first of the year. “As you might expect from musicians of this caliber, this is a superb album.  The song selection is excellent, and vocals and musicianship is top notch.  Don’t miss this one,” said Cantrell.AMERICAN DRIVE will soon be announcing their 2013 Tour Schedule along with other news, so fans are encouraged to sign up for newsletters at AmericanDriveBand.com where they can also purchase a copy of the new album.  The band also invites fans to also join them on Twitter and Facebook. For more information on Rural Rhythm Records, please visit RuralRhythm.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce today’s new Bluegrass album, THE BACK FORTY, by Marty Raybon & Full Circle. Marty co-wrote five of the tracks including the first single, “That Janie Baker,” that is currently charting on Bluegrass Today’s Weekly Top 20. Fans will want to view the two recently released videos where the Grammy Award Winning artist talks about each song from the album and his 40th Anniversary as an Entertainer.THE BACK FORTY includes the following tracks by these fine songwriters:01  That Janie Baker – Marty Raybon, John Fountain02  She’s Just An Old Love Turned Memory – John Schweers03  The Late Night Cry Of The Whippoorwill – Randall Hylton, Paul Craft, Brenda Harrington, Kermit Teague04  Slowly (I’m Falling) – Webb Pierce, Tommy Hill05  Look For Me (For I Will Be There Too) – Charles (Rusty) Goodman06  The Big Burnsville Jail – Marty Raybon, Thom Case, and Michael Bonagura07  A Little More Sawdust On The Floor – Marty Raybon, John Fountain08  Only You, Only You – Marty Raybon, John Fountain09  Hurt Me All The Time – Raymond Maynard, Nelson Terry Skinner,and Lee Larry Wallace10 Mountain Love – Marty Raybon, Jerry SalleyMarty is thrilled with the new bluegrass album release and gives credit for his musical style to his Dad who was a fiddle player who performed at bluegrass and country music festivals and events during Marty’s early years.  Marty and his brothers actually began their careers as the American Bluegrass Express in the ‘70s.Marty Raybon & Full Circle are now on tour, so for more information on the album and tour dates, please visit  MartyRaybon.com, Facebook and Twitter.THE BACK FORTY is now available at Amazon, iTunes, Rural Rhythm Records and more fine retail outlets. Radio can hear the entire album and download it April 1 at AirPlay Direct.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the CD release of “Ten” by Nu-Blu. The physical CD is available today wherever Bluegrass CD’s are sold and the digital album is also available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and other digital stores.  The album is also available now for radio programmers and DJ’s on AirPlay Direct.Last week Nu-Blu celebrated their CD release with a CD Release Party at the Silver Dollar Saloon in downtown Nashville.  Nu-Blu banjo player Levi Austin deserves a special “tough man” award for the evening, after having an accident earlier in the day that resulted in multiple stitches in his left hand. He played on during Nu-Blu’s powerful one hour set, proving once again that the show must go on.“What a whirlwind week it was in Nashville! Monday thru Wednesday was filled with meetings at Rural Rhythm, media and radio interviews, video shoots, and the awesome CD release party on Broadway. Thursday and Friday we were at the Summer NAMM show. Meetings with our partner’s QSC, SAGA, and DAddario strings went well, and we even ended up with a few new sponsors that will we announce soon!   Peterson Tuners hosted a day long meet and greet at their booth on Friday. It was a huge opportunity to make so many new fans in a setting that was outside of the bluegrass community.  We hope that Nu-Blu and "TEN" help to bring others to the music we love! ", commented Daniel Routh.Nu-Blu was founded ten years ago by husband and wife team, Carolyn and Daniel Routh.  They are joined by long time band members Levi Austin and Austin Koerner to comprise one of today’s most popular bluegrass groups.  Through the years, and after numerous charted bluegrass and gospel albums, Nu-Blu has developed a solid fan base utilizing the strong lead vocal talents of Carolyn, Daniel and Levi along with their diverse selection of material including original songs, traditional favorites and songs from other genres of music.Now with five albums to their credit, Nu-Blu has developed a unique sound which combines their love for bluegrass music and respect for its traditional roots, along with an edgy feel that gives their music a fresh energy and spirit.Appropriately titled, “Ten” contains 10 new songs performed in their unique and distinctive style with award winning special guest musicians Ron Stewart and Jim Van Cleve.  Track one titled “That Road” is the first single from the album and features the strong vocals of Carolyn Routh.  Radio programmers and DJ’s have been enjoying the depth of songs on the album including  Dennis Jones from WNCW who featured 8 tracks from the album over the weekend.  "Nu-Blu celebrates 10 years in fine form. “Ten” is a wonderful blend of the tradition with their own contemporary spin. Strong songwriting, tight vocal harmonies and fantastic instrumental work from Carolyn and Daniel Routh, Levi Austin and Austin Koerner show why North Carolina IS Bluegrass country and produces some of today’s best musicians and bands. Congratulations on “Ten” and here’s to ten more." - Dennis Jones, WNCWTRACK LISTING1.    That Road2.    Without A Kiss3.    Caught In The Middle4.    Eddie’s Garage5.    Train’s I Didn’t Take6.    The Seed7.    It’s A Good Day To Be With You8.    All Americans9.    Giant Squid10. Shadows Of The Night

Rural Rhythm Records recording artist Mike Scott will be hosting the WSM Midnite Jamboree on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at the Ernest Tubb Record Shop on Music Valley Drive in Nashville.  The show is live at the Texas Troubadour Theatre and broadcast on WSM radio and WSMONLINE.COM.  Scott and the Nashville Band which includes; Carl Jackson, Scott  Napier, Heath VanWinkle, Kim Gardner and Steve Day  will be performing along with special guests Carl Jackson, Larry Cordle & Val Story, as well as, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers.  Saturday night’s show is part of a series of shows celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the “Grand Ole Opry Star” Ernest Tubb.  “I was honored to have known Ernest Tubb when I moved to Nashville to work for Jim & Jesse & The Virginia Boys at The Grand Ole Opry in 1983 and later attended his funeral with Jim & Jesse in 1984. This date also marks the "10th Memorial" of the loss of my Dad...Charles Virgil Scott (6/23/31 - 2/15/04).” – said Mike Scott.Mike Scott is seen by millions of TV viewers each week during prime-time on RFD-TV, (72 million households), performing with Ronnie Reno & The Reno Tradition on RENO’S OLD TIME MUSIC SHOW.  He also is the host of the new music TV series BEHIND THE DREAM ™ currently airing on BlueHighways TV.Mike Scott’s current album Home Sweet Home (Civil War Era Songs), released in 2013, will have two of the songs from the album performed in upcoming episodes for the new season of RENO’S OLD TIME MUSIC SHOW airing this spring.  Scott, producer & performer on Home Sweet Home, assembled an all-star group of musicians to pay tribute to the popular parlor songs, minstrel songs and marching songs from this era, which are now known as traditional standards.  Joining Scott on this album are awarding winning players Adam Steffey, Rob Ickes, Bryan Sutton, Aubrey Haynie, Tim Stafford, Mike Compton, Ben Isaacs, Jeff Taylor and Scott Miller

Inducted in 1964, Bluegrass legends Jim & Jesse are celebrating 50 Years as members of the GRAND OLE OPRY this year.  On March 1st the Grand Ole Opry® will honor Jesse McReyonlds as he celebrates his 50th year as a member of the Grand Ole Opry®.  The success of their 60’s radio shows prompted Martha White Flour to bring them to Nashville to star on their early morning show on WSM.  In 1964 a life time dream came true for Jim & Jesse when they became regular members of the Grand Ole Opry®.Deep in the mountains of southwest Virginia still stands the white aging farmhouse Jim & Jesse first called home. Raised in the small community of Carfax, located near Coeburn, VA, the boys grew up in a family steeped in traditional mountain music.  Their harmony was exceptional, a rarity some say only brothers can produce. Jim's enhanced high tenor combined with Jesse's deep lead and unique mandolin style set this duo apart in the world of traditional music, now termed Bluegrass.Very early in their career, Jesse developed a "McReynolds style" technique on the mandolin, combining his invention of "crosspicking and split-string playing", which distinguished his picking from others. Many have imitated, but few have successfully mastered his unique style of fast execution of intricate melodic patterns.In 1952, Jim & Jesse debuted on their first major label, Capitol Records. Since that time, they have recorded for various labels including: Columbia, Epic, again for Capitol, Opryland, CMH, Rounder, and their own, Old Dominion. In 1960, their first single for Columbia, "The Flame of Love" backed by "Gosh I Miss You All The Time" spent weeks climbing the top 100 national charts. "Cotton Mill Man", "Diesel On My Tail", "Are You Missing Me", and "Paradise" are a few songs regarded as Jim & Jesse classics.The year 2002 was a difficult one for Jim and Jesse. Jim was diagnosed with cancer and passed away on December 31, 2002.  His death ended the longest active professional brother duet in country music history - 55 years.Jesse has carried on the Jim & Jesse tradition and has since gone on to play throughout the world with the Virginia Boys. And the beautiful music that originated from the brothers in the mountains of southwest Virginia back in 1947 is as timeless as ever.The Jim & Jesse tradition continues to grow in 2014 with the release of the album RADIO SHOWS which is currently #1 on both the AirPlay Direct Global Radio Indicator Charts for “Top 50 Albums” and the “Top 50 Bluegrass Albums for the month of February.“Jim & Jesse have captured something truly special here.  A lifetime of radio fans and professionals giving them input on which songs were best, I LOVE IT…!” - Robert Weingartz, Chairman & Founder – AirPlay DirectOriginally released in 1978 as a 2 record set on the Old Dominion label, RADIO SHOWS will be available for the first time on CD and digital formats on March 4th.  RADIO SHOWS was recorded in 1962 and contained mainly songs never before recorded by Jim & Jesse and The Virginia Boys, and were selected because of the heavy requests for them on their radio shows.Produced by Jesse McReynolds and Gordon Reid, RADIO SHOWS contains 24 songs on one compact disc remastered from the original master tapes with performances by Jim & Jesse McReynolds, Allen Shelton, Jim Buchanan, Don McHan and David Southerland.A special added value feature to the album includes online access to a Jesse McReynolds video interview reminiscing about the RADIO SHOWS album and era, as well as, exclusive photos from his private collection during this wonderful period in the lives of Jim & Jesse.Jim & Jesse recorded and released many albums on the Old Dominion label dating back to the early 70’s including “The Jim & Jesse Show”, “Superior Sounds Of Bluegrass”, “Jesus Is The Key”, “Jim & Jesse Show Live In Japan”, “Songs About Our Country”, “Palace Of Song”, “Songs of Inspiration” and more.Rural Rhythm will be making these albums available for Jim & Jesse fans to enjoy again and bring their music to a whole new generation of Bluegrass & Country music fans. 

“I’m here as a friend and a fan,” Grand Ole Opry star Jan Howard declared to a crowd of Jesse McReynolds’ closest friends and family on July 13th, 2014, in Gallatin, Tennessee.  It was a lively gathering on a sunny Sunday at Jesse’s farm, the Pick Inn, to celebrate his 85th birthday and there was no shortage of tributes from Jesse’s colleagues, neighbors and friends.  Nine of Nashville’s finest, Homer Bradley (the unofficial “Mayor of Cairo”), WSM announcer Eddie Stubbs, fiddle-player Jim Buchanan, Opry stars Jeannie Seely and Jan Howard, Carl Jackson, banjo-player Mike Scott, Larry Stephenson and Sam Bush, roasted McReynolds who was praised for his sense of humor, his mentorship of other artists, his contributions to bluegrass music and, most of all, his sincere and kind personality.  “He was just what I wanted him to be,” said Stubbs of his first meeting with Jesse, “we learned so much just by observing these people…they set the bar really high.”  Jeannie Seely echoed that sentiment telling the party, “he always kicks things up just a little notch.” Orchestrated by Master of Ceremonies, radio host Harv Mason, the nine roasters proclaimed their difficulty in finding anything negative, however silly, to joke about with Jesse.  “There’s simply nothing bad you can say about that man right there,” Jackson insisted, a fact that was seconded by the others.  They told stories of the road, of riding on the tour bus throughout the years, of how the brother-duo Jim & Jesse had influenced their careers and of Jesse’s unique style.  “He’s his own person,” remarked Sam Bush and Larry Stephenson called him, “a class act.”  A fitting tribute to a man who’s spent over six decades entertaining the world with his cross-picking mandolin playing and quality bluegrass music.It wouldn’t be a birthday party without a little music so Jesse took to the stage joined by members of the Virginia Boys band, his grandson Garrett McReynolds and his friends the Crowe Brothers, Del McCoury and Sam Bush.  Together, they treated the crowd to bluegrass and country favorites providing a perfect ending to the celebration.  “They would come out dressed like a million dollars and put on a great show,” Stephenson said of watching Jim and Jesse perform throughout the years.  At the celebration of his 85th birthday, Jesse McReynolds proved, once again, that the show does, indeed, continue on.  “He’s not content to rest on his laurels,” Eddie Stubbs observed.  Jesse agreed, “I may be 85 but I still have a lot of things I want to do.”JESSE McREYNOLDS became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1964.  Alongside his brother Jim, he’s recorded more than fifty albums featuring his innovative cross-picking and split-string style of mandolin playing.  Jesse is a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts’ National Heritage Music Fellowship Award and a member of the International Bluegrass Music Association’s “Hall of Honor”.  He was nominated for a Grammy as part of the celebrated duo Jim and Jesse in 1992 for the album “Music Among Friends” and Jesse received four additional nominations for his work with other artists. Following Jim’s death in 2002, Jesse carried on the McReynolds tradition touring with his band, the Virginia Boys, playing festivals and concerts across the country as well as making regular appearances on the Grand Ole Opry.  His current release, Jim & Jesse McReynolds & the Virginia Boys – Radio Shows, a collection of 24 fan favorites recorded in 1962, is available via Rural Rhythm Records.  More information on Jesse’s long career can be found at www.jimandjesse.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is pleased to announce the first single “Up On Claybank” available today from Bluegrass group ClayBank.  Written by band members Zack Arnold and Jacob Greer, “Up On Claybank” features lead the vocal of Zack Arnold and captures the culture and charm of growing up in this rural community.

Produced by Steve Gulley & ClayBank,“Up On Claybank” can be downloaded by D.J.’s at AirPlay Direct and available now on iTunes, Amazon and all other digital download sources.  Click here to listen to "Up On Claybank".

Hailing from the mountains of western North Carolina, an area that is steeped in the musical heritage of bluegrass, old-time and gospel music, ClayBank has been turning heads in the Bluegrass community ever since their formation a little over a year ago.  The band took the grand prize at the 2016 band competition at RenoFest (an event honoring the late and legendary musician, Don Reno) and 3rd place honors this year at the 2016 SPBGMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music) National Band Championship. 

ClayBank consists of youngsters Zack Arnold (15) on mandolin and vocals and Jacob Greer (17) on guitar and vocals along with Tyler Thompson on banjo and vocals and Gary Trivette on bass and vocals.  The band takes their name from the community of ClayBank (near West Jefferson, NC) that is not only where they meet together to hone their craft but the place that embodies the very spirit of the music they play.   The band members are not related by blood but are tightly knit by the love of the music that they share as well as their love for the Lord.

Meet ClayBank and hear more about their debut single.  Click on video below:

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce two new titles in its archival HERITAGE COLLECTION series. The Rural Rhythm HERITAGE COLLECTION Series will help keep traditional roots music alive and preserved for future generations.  The Rural Rhythm HERITAGE COLLECTION Series includes authentic Old-Time Country, Bluegrass, Folk, Country Waltzes, Fiddle Tunes and Gospel music performed by many legends & pioneers.  Titles are mastered from the original master tapes, with original cover artwork and include many albums never-before available on CD.

Since the initial release in late 2013, thirty titles have been released to date in the Rural Rhythm HERITAGE COLLECTION Series including titles by MAC WISEMAN, DON RENO

& BILL HARRELL, HYLO BROWN, RED SMILEY, 

J.E. MAINER, CURLY FOX, DALE POTTER, EARL TAYLOR,

MAC MARTIN, BUCK RYAN, LEE MOORE, RAYMOND FAIRCHILD and JIM GREER.

Rural Rhythm has now released two more titles in the digital format from their HERITAGE COLLECTION Series; Hylo Brown – Folk Songs Of Rural America and Hylo Brown – America’s Favorite Balladeer.

Frank Brown earned the nickname "Hylo" because of his considerable vocal range that became his trademark.  Born in 1922 in Johnson County, KY, which also became the birthplace of Loretta Lynn, Brown had thoroughly absorbed the music indigenous to his Appalachian home.

In 1957, Brown joined Flatt & Scruggs, becoming a featured vocalist with the duo's Foggy Mountain Boys. Hylo Brown released his first album in 1958 on Capitol Records and it remains a traditional bluegrass classic.

Hylo Brown recorded seven albums for Rural Rhythm Records in the late 60’s with Lee Sutton as producer. Available for the first time as a digital download album, Folk Songs Of Rural America was the second of the seven albums and was originally released in 1967.     Musicians on the album include Hylo Brown – lead vocal, guitar; Jack Casey – lead guitar; John Maultteay – fiddle; Ross Branham – banjo; Dan Milhon – dobro guitar; Dick Brickles – acoustic bass.

Uncle Jim O’Neal, creator of Rural Rhythm Records, was the architect behind Hylo Brown performing all the standard traditional songs that have been handed down through the generations on these seven classic albums.

TRACKS:

1.      GIRL IN THE BLUE VELVET BAND

2.      LITTLE JOHN HENRY

3.      ALL THE GOOD TIMES ARE PAST AND GONE

4.      SALLY LET YOUR BANGS HANG DOWN

5.      LEAF OF LOVE

6.      DOWN IN THE WILLOW GARDEN

7.      I’M COMING BACK BUT I DON’T KNOW WHEN

8.      THIS TRAIN

9.      PRISONER OF ROANE COUNTY

10.    ARE YOU TIRED OF ME MY DARLING

11.    THE STORMS ARE ON THE OCEAN

12.    I’LL REMEMBER YOU LOVE IN MY PRAYERS

13.    PREACHER AND THE BEAR

14.    BLACK JACK DAVEY

15.    GO ALONG MULE

16.    PUT ME IN YOUR POCKET

17.    AT THE RAINBOW’S END

18.    CONVERSATION WITH A MULE

19.   TIE UP THOSE BROKEN CORDS

20.    FROGGIE WENT A COURTIN’

Produced by Lee Sutton and available for the first time as a digital download album, America’s Favorite Balladeer was the sixth of the seven albums and was originally released in 1968.   Musicians on the album include Hylo Brown – lead vocal, guitar; Clarence

“Tater” Tate – fiddle; Billy Edwards – banjo; Dan Milhon – dobro guitar; John Palmer– acoustic bass

TRACKS:

1.      DO WILD ROSES LOSE THEIR PETALS

2.      ROLLING DOWN THE MOUNTAIN

3.      ALL BECAUSE

4.      I’LL PAINT ME A PICTURE

5.      STACK-O-LEE

6.      TRUSTING YOU

7.      LITTLE GREEN MEN

8.      HE HAD A LONG CHAIN ON

9.      WAITING FOR A SHIP TO COME IN

10.    JAILER MAN

11.    MY OLD MULE

12.    LITTLE INDIAN MAIDEN

13.    EVERY DAY DIRT

14.    PEG LEG JACK

15.    BETTY AND DUPREE

16.    KATEY MOORIE

17.    HOW COME YOU DO ME LIKE YOU DO?

18.    LONELY TOMBS

19.    SAM WILSON

20.    FIREBALL MAIL

Hylo Brown – Folk Songs Of Rural America and Hylo Brown – America’s Favorite Balladeer are available to DJ's on AirPlay Direct along with the other thirty titles currently released in the Rural Rhythm Heritage Collection series.

In addition, these two titles are now available on Amazon, iTunes and wherever digital music is sold.

Watch for more titles coming in 2017 from the Rural Rhythm HERITAGE COLLECTION Series.

ClayBank’s debut album on Rural Rhythm Records titled “PLAYING HARD TO FORGET “, released on September 30th,  debuted this week at #8 on the Billboard Top 10 Bluegrass Album Chart.  ClayBank hit the ground running in 2016 starting in February by winning 3rd place at the SPBGMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music) National Band Championship, in March taking grand prize at the band competition at RenoFest (an event honoring the late and legendary musician, Don Reno), signing with the Andrea Roberts Agency in April and with Rural Rhythm Records in May.

ClayBank’s current single “Up On Claybank” has appeared on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart multiple times reaching #6 and is being received enthusiastically by bluegrass radio.  Written by band members Zack Arnold and Jacob Greer, “Up On Claybank” captures the culture and charm of growing up in this rural community.  The single features the lead vocal of Zack Arnold who has been turning a lot of heads in the Bluegrass world.

ClayBank was a big hit at the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) World of Bluegrass last month in Raleigh, NC performing at a special showcase/CD release celebration during the WOB festivities.  In addition, this past Tuesday night ClayBank played to a full-capacity and very enthusiastic crowd at the Harvest House Performing Arts Center in Boone, NC.

Produced by Steve Gulley and ClayBank, PLAYING HARD TO FORGET delivers the drive, high energy and beautiful harmonies that fans have been experiencing at ClayBank’s live shows and can now be enjoyed on their debut album on Rural Rhythm Records.

ClayBank members contributed three original songs to the album,“Foot Of The Phoenix”,“Daddy Would Sing” and the first single“Up On Claybank”.   The band also reached out to some of the top songwriters for songs on their debut album including; Becky Buller (“How I Love You”), Milan Miller and James Ellis(“Playing Hard To Forget”, “A Little Bit Of You”), Randall Hylton (“It Almost Feels Like Love”), Eli Johnston and Kevin McKinnon (“Demise of Handsome Molly”), as well as  Dennis Linde, Stephen Paul Phillips, Lee Black, Kenna Turner West, and Jay Don Johnson.

“PLAYING HARD TO FORGET” can be downloaded by D.J.’s at AirPlay Direct and is available now on iTunes, Amazon and wherever Bluegrass music is sold.

For more information about ClayBank or to find out where you can see them live go to www.claybankbluegrass.com.

Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce that “Kentucky Blue” by multi hit songwriter, Billy Droze has reached #1 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart. Droze and co-producer Ronnie Bowman are working on his debut album for Rural Rhythm containing the #1 single which is scheduled for release early Summer.

This song has been stuck in my head from the moment I heard it. It’s so good, even my sub consciousness keeps hitting replay.” Terry Herd, Bluegrass Radio Network, Bluegrass Today

I am so thankful and blown away at the response from radio for 'Kentucky Blue' .  God has blessed me richly and is making my dreams come true" - Billy Droze

The single has generated strong support from the Bluegrass radio community and has been steadily moving up the charts since its release last September. The single has also achieved the #3 position on the Bluegrass Junction – MOST-PLAYED TRACKS Chart – SiriusXM Radio this month.

Billy Droze describes "Kentucky Blue" as somewhat of a light-hearted fiction of a man who hit rock bottom over lost love and perpetual heartbreak. The story paints the scene of a man leaning on sad songs and memories of the past with no way to escape. Though hoping all along he might find a way out of his predicament it's almost as if he has found comfort in his own hopeless misery. This semi retro composition is reminiscent of classic Hank with the cry of the lyrics almost moaning out the state his obviously broken heart is in.

“Kentucky Blue” written by Billy Droze and Lance Droze, features Droze‘s soulful vocals and lead guitar with the help of his friend Ronnie Bowman on harmony vocals and Marja Droze and top bluegrass pickers Scott Vestal (Banjo), Rob Ickes (Dobro) and Andy Leftwich (Fiddle / Mandolin). The single is produced by Billy Droze & Ronnie Bowman and includes performances by Jason Roller (Rhythm Guitar) and Kevin Grant (Bass).

At only 30, Billy Droze has acquired the title of "hit songwriter" over the years co-writing such songs as; I Know Better" (#1 on Bluegrass Today Weekly Chart) - The Grascals, "Her Memory Again" (#5 on Bluegrass Today Weekly Chart) - Flatt Lonesome, “Bottle Was a Bible” – Junior Sisk, ”Big Pain” – Marty Raybon, "Free Again" - Shenandoah, “Sunday Clothes” - Randy Kohrs, “That’s Why I Run” - Billy Yates (#1 in Europe), “You Never Know” – Darryl Worley, "Like I Do" - Jamie O'Neil and more.

Click here to listen to the single "Kentucky Blue". The single “Kentucky Blue” is available for DJ downloads on AirPlay Direct.

Learn more about Billy Doze, the single "Kentucky Blue" and watch Billy Droze & Kentucky Blue perform "Kentucky Blue."

Steve Gulley and New Pinnacle have hit the ground running since their first album in 2015. Their two previous Rural Rhythm Records albums have produced multiple hit #1 radio charted songs, including “Leaving CrazyTown”, “Aim High”, “Not Now”, and critically acclaimed album reviews.

Produced by Steve Gulley, TIME WON’T WAIT, releasing on October 20th,is the group’s third album and features the up-tempo hard drivin’ single “Drowned In Sorrow” written by Steve Gulley and Tim Stafford.  Gulley wrote or co-wrote 5 of the songs including the first single, and the title cut, "Time Won't Wait", which was co-written with his chief writing partner, Tim Stafford of Blue Highway.  Other key songs include the poignant ballad, "The Road Back To You", written by Grammy award winner, Carl Jackson and the straight-ahead, road song,  "I'm Alright", written by Jon Weisberger and Swedish musician / songwriter Christoffer Olsson.  Gulley revisits his traditional country roots with his version of the Ronnie Milsap classic, "I Can Almost See Houston From Here".  Also included is an amazing break - neck paced instrumental, "G-Force", written by New Pinnacle mandolin player Gary Robinson, Jr.

“This is our third recording project as a band and I couldn't be happier with the way it turned out. I think the songs complement each other perfectly and, in turn, show the diversity and maturity of the band itself. I feel this album shows how much we've grown as a group while still staying true to the things that help define our sound - emotion, drive and intensity. I can't wait for everyone to hear this new collection of music." – Steve Gulley

Steve Gulley and New Pinnacle include Steve Gulley (guitar, vocals), Bryan Turner (bass, vocals), Gary Robinson, Jr. (mandolin), Matthew Cruby (banjo, vocals) and special guest Tim Crouch (Fiddle).  TIME WON’T WAIT builds on the band’s heritage of strong roots in Bluegrass and Mountain Gospel music and at the same time provides a new and fresh sound that further accents the Steve Gulley and New Pinnacle signature sound.

TRACKS:

1. Drowned In Sorrow (Tim Stafford, Steve Gulley)
2. Time Won't Wait (Steve Gulley, Tim Stafford)
3. You'll Cry For Me (Steve Gulley)
4. The Road Back To You (Carl Jackson)
5. I'm Alright (Christoffer Olsson, Jon Weisberger)
6. I Can Almost See Houston From Here (Ray Willis)
7. Congratulations Anyway (Jesse McReynolds, Jim McReynolds)
8. You Can't Help Who You Love (Steve Gulley, Tim Stafford)
9. Leaving Sounds Pretty Good To Me (Steve Gulley, Tim Stafford)
10. G – Force (Gary Robinson, Jr.)
11. Safe In His Arms (Gene Johnson, Val Johnson)
12. Hold Your Horses (Carl Jackson, Pam Gadd)

Rural Rhythm Records is pleased to announce the new single “Until I Can Find My Way Back To You” from the album “Lonesome Riverboat Blues” by Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry.

“This is a song about losing someone, but always knowing they are still with us. I’ve watched a lot of people through the years that have lost a loved one, and they seem to always hold on to them with comments like I know they are still here with us, or they are watching, and looking down at us. Some even seem to be waiting to go home to their loved one. I was thinking about loved ones I’ve lost through the years, and this all led me to this song. It tells the story of someone going through this circumstance, and waiting until they can find their way back to the loved one in Heaven, and realizing they have been with them all along to give them strength until that day!!” – Edgar Loudermilk

Produced by Edgar Loudermilk and Jeff Autry the album also features the single “Lonesome Riverboat Blues”, which reached #1 (July Chart), on the Bluegrass Junction – Most Played Tracks on SiriusXM and #4 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart.  Both singles and the album feature Edgar Loudermilk (lead vocal, bass), Jeff Autry (guitar, harmony vocal), Zack Autry (mandolin, harmony vocal), Curtis Bumgarner (banjo) and Dylan Armour (dobro).

This is a homecoming for Loudermilk who was with Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out on their two highly successful albums for Rural Rhythm Records.  “We are so excited, and grateful to be reunited with Rural Rhythm Records!  It feels good to come back home to where a lot of great records I have been a part of all started. We are looking forward to our future together,” said Loudermilk.

The album, LONESOME RIVERBOAT BLUES is available for download to D.J.’s and program directors on AirPlay Direct and also available wherever digital downloads are available including iTunes, Amazon and for streaming on Spotify and Pandora.

About Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry

Edgar Loudermilk comes from a long line of celebrated Bluegrass musicians including his father, grandfather and famous relatives The Louvin Brothers.  At age 20 he joined Carolina Crossfire who had quite a following in the Georgia area.  In 2001 he performed with Rhonda Vincent for almost a year before moving over to one of the greatest voices in Country Music Marty Raybon.  Loudermilk became the bass player and tenor singer in the newly formed group Full Circle and would back up Marty Raybon for almost five years.

When Ray Deaton left IIIrd Tyme Out, Loudermilk became its newest member in 2007.  "I really love the music of this band," stated Loudermilk.  "Singing with Russell Moore is the compliment of my life because I don't believe there's a better singer anywhere."

In addition to touring and performing, Edgar Loudermilk has had great success as a songwriter, with over 50 self-penned songs, many of which have been recorded by other artists.   In 2017 Edgar's self-penned song, "Can't Live Live," was recorded by Rhonda Vincent & Daryle Singletary as part of their American Grandstand album--that album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Chart, and in July of 2017, it was on Billboard's Top 10 of Top Current Country Albums, as well as No.1 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Album Chart for the week of July 29, 2017.  The album went on to be #1 on Splice Today's Top 10 Country Albums of 2017.

Loudermilk's solo album, Roads Travelled, showcased his vocal talents and his solid bass playing, but also his songwriting skills, having written or co-written all 12 tracks on the project.  In 2013 Loudermilk released, My Big Chance Tomorrow writing all the songs on the album. The album appeared on numerous radio charts and the Roots Music Report’s Top 100 Bluegrass Albums of 2014 chart.

In November 2013, Edgar joined Dave Adkins to form the new duo, Adkins & Loudermilk.  Their March 2015 debut album hit numerous album and singles charts including the single "Georgia Mountain Man" which Loudermilk wrote about his grandfather.

Jeff Autry is highly regarded as one of the most talented guitarist of our time performing and recording with many bluegrass legends including Sam Bush, The Lynn Morris Band, Vassar Clements, Ricky Skaggs, Peter Rowan and the John Cowan Band.

His recording credits include the award winning instrumental series Bluegrass 96 through Bluegrass 2001, his own solo album titled Foothills, Leftover Salmon mandolinist Drew Emmett’s solo album, as well as the John Cowan Band’s release, Always Take Me Back.

Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry, which debuted in July 2016 with their album Georgia Maple, has played together for quite some time.  Although this is the official band record, the group has great chemistry and stage dynamic.

The Edgar Loudermilk Band, featuring Jeff Autry is performing throughout the United States and Canada during on their 2020 Tour.

Rural Rhythm Records is thrilled to announce The Edgar Loudermilk Band’s hotly-awaited album, The Dark Side of Lonesome. Now available, The Dark Side of Lonesome spotlights a collection of traditional favorites and new originals, all steeped in the rich flavor and musical stylings of American roots the band is known for. The album The Dark Side of Lonesome is available now on all digital streaming platforms.

Edgar Loudermilk’s masterful bass skills and songwriting are a family tradition for this Louvin Brothers’ descendant. While his friendly, down-home style continues to win over audiences across the country, Loudermilk’s distinctive vocals and powerful storytelling indeed drives a genuine and personal connection with his listeners.

Click Here to Listen to the Latest Single “I’m Going Home”

“I see songwriting as much of a calling as singing,” says Loudermilk. “Playing and singing live is always a good time and we love the audiences, but connecting with people through relatable and meaningful songwriting is very rewarding.”
Track List:

“Moving Train”

“The Deal That Won’t Go Down”

“The Dark Side of Lonesome”

“I’m Going Home”

"Just for Me"

“I’ll Put the Blame on You”

“I Hope She Sings”

“Lost Cause Loving You”

“Queen of Laramie”

“For the Likes of You”

“It is Well with My Soul”

“John Henry”

“A Place to Call Home”

Loudermilk has penned chart-topping songs found on Bluegrass Today’s Top Songs of the Year, as well as on Bluegrass Unlimited’s Top Songs. Notably, the band’s 2019 album "Lonesome Riverboat Blues" reached #1 on Sirius XM’s Bluegrass Junction and reached “Most Played” status in July of 2019. The album also remained in Bluegrass Today’s Top 20 Airplay Charts for twelve consecutive weeks.