Darius Rucker Crosses Boundaries With His Platinum-Selling Debut Album

Do you remember that gorgeous voice singing songs like “Hold My Hand,” “Let Her Cry,” and the monster hit “Only Wanna Be With You” from defunct band Hootie & the Blowfish? Well that voice belongs to Darius Rucker, founder and singer for the late 90’s band who shot to fame with their debut album Cracked Rear View, which was released in 1994.

Along with the other members of Hootie & the Blowfish, Rucker helped change the face of the mainstream pop/rock genre during the mid-90s. After touring and releasing successive albums, the band decided to take a break from recording after the release of “Musical Chairs” in 1998. Recognizing an opportunity to explore his love for country music, Rucker announced in August 2008 that he was leaving the group in order to pursue his solo career as a country artist. Fortunately for country music fans, Rucker wisely capitalized on his R&B and country influences to craft his debut album.

Based on the success of his platinum-selling debut album, “Learn to Live” (Capitol Records), it looks like he made the right choice. In fact, three singles from that album, “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” “It Won’t Be Like This for Long,” and “Alright,” went on to reach the Number One spot on the U.S. Hot Country Singles charts.

Although switching genres from pop rock to country may seem like an unlikely career move, Rucker has defied the odds and delivered what some experts consider as an  anomaly in country music—a successful African American in a genre traditionally dominated by white artists. Of course, whatever initial apprehensions the critics had were quickly dispelled when Rucker released his debut album last year.

In an interview, Rucker said, “I’ve been talkin’ about this record with my friends and with my band and with people so long that when I actually finally got the chance, when capitol gave me a record deal–which still shocks me to this day–I was just really excited, and the timing just worked perfect. And now everything’s going well.”

Indeed, his career in country music is taking off. Not since Charley Pride had a hit song in the country charts in 1969 has an African-American artist released a successful single and album in this genre. Does he feel the weight of such a comparison?

“When I was making the record, I didn’t really think about the cultural or historical significance. But when my record started getting into the charts, I started hearing things and I had to pay attention. Anytime you’re mentioned with Charley Pride — and Ray Charles, too — it’s a great feeling! To be one of the few African-American men to fare well on country radio, I can’t help but feel great about that.”

With the impending release of his sophomore effort next year, Rucker wishes to maintain the momentum going.  Today, he is busy writing and recording songs for the new album.

On September 9, Rucker and Lee Ann Womack are scheduled to announce the 2009 CMA Awards nominations on ABC’s Good Morning America.