Steve Gulley and Sam Passamano, President of Rural Rhythm Records, have made it official. The popular bluegrass singer, songwriter, recording engineer and producer has signed a long-term deal with the Nashville-based label.
It may almost seem like a formality, as Gulley has been deeply involved with Rural Rhythm for many years. He was featured on albums by Mountain Heart and Grasstowne, released a stellar duet album with songwriting partner Tim Stafford (Dogwood Winter), and both performed and produced two high profile project for the label: the live concert CD and DVD, Christmas the Mountain Way, and their Civil War-themed album, God Didn’t Choose Sides.
But Passamano knows talent when he sees it, and made the move to ensure that Gulley would remain a part of their team going forward.
“Steve Gulley has been a big part of Rural Rhythm’s success over the past years contributing his talents on many important album projects for the label. It’s been an absolute joy and privilege to be working side by side with Steve over the years to create a string of very successful album projects that I know music fans have enjoyed all over the world. We are very excited to be a part of Steve’s music family now and in the future and look forward to all the creative music this highly talented singer, songwriter and producer will grace us with over the years.”
And for Steve, the agreement was a cinch.
“I am so proud to have been a part of the Rural Rhythm family for sometime now so the signing of the long term recording and production agreement was an easy decision for me. I have such a great relationship with the Passamano family and all the folks at the label. They’ve always given me the trust and creative freedom needed to make the best possible music I can and their friendship is invaluable. I’m looking forward to being here with Rural Rhythm for years to come.”
Next from Gulley and Rural Rhythm will be a Gospel album due early next year, Family, Friends & Fellowship. Assisting will be Ricky Skaggs, Doyle Lawson, Kenny & Amanda Smith, Joe Mullins, Tim Surrett, Phil Leadbetter, Les Butler, and Mark Wheeler along with Steve’s dad Don Gulley, wife Debbie Gulley, and son Brad Gulley.
He is also currently producing the next record for Cumberland River, a debut project for Crosspoint, and a follow-up to God Didn’t Choose Sides, all expected in 2014.
Oh… and in his free time, Steve tours with Dale Ann Bradley. Busy guy.
