I love Darius Rucker. I loved his voice in 1994, from the first time I heard Danny Baker play that wonderful Hootie & The Blofish debut. And I love his solo, Country stuff. Every interview he does (in the States) mentions his skin colour. Every time Danny interviews him, the only thing DB wants to talk about is the joy that the songs give him, and the quality of his voice.
Sure, I am throwing that headline out there. But, feck me, he is having hit albums, hit singles, radio plays and sell out gigs, in the heart of the Country music heartland, the Deep South.
This video has had nigh on 70 million views.
Lest we forget, Charley Pride was massive back in the ’60s.
My point, encapsulated in 11 words. The most crucial one being the last.
Exhibit A
Weird coincidence. I only yesterday realised that Hootie and the Blowfish actually were Darius Ruckers band, thinking he was just a token black guy to do CMTV duets, however good a singer he is. But I caught his bands covers LP in a box : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scattered,_Smothered_and_Covered and then investigated further. I’m tending to agree with you now, Niall.
Agree with you Niallb. Loved him and the Blowfish since I was lucky to see them at a free gig in Florida in the early 90’s. Love his country stuff now, and even his “Holiday” album is good listening – his voice is like velvet!
I remember him but had no idea he was doing this!
I love his voice, his easy, infectious vibe and how much he clearly enjoys doing his thing.
Oh and he looks mighty fine too. I’m hanging with him today. Thanks @niallb ❤️
I’m pleased to find that there are others round here who like Darius.
Criticism of Darius on the No Depression website with respect to his True Believers album suggested that all he does is tick all the right boxes (http://nodepression.com/article/darius-rucker-true-believers). I argued against that reviewer, but all my comments have gone – probably due to the site reboot ND had a few months back.
But yes, he is hugely popular in our house, though last album Southern Style was a bit lacklustre.
Here is a goodie from his Charleston Sc, 1966 album – Come Back Song
Ray Charles is the best Country singer I’ve ever heard.
No he isn’t. Esther Philips is.
Mmmmm.
Oh dear me yes.
I make them equal first.
Solomon Burke isn’t too shabby either.
Other than George Jones, it can only be Jerry Lee Lewis.