Whether you're a fan of country, rock or R&B, you've probably heard a song by South Carolina's Darius Rucker. The eclectic musician first gained fame in the late 1980s when he founded Grammy-winning rock band Hootie & the Blowfish with a few of his classmates at the University of South Carolina.
Known for undeniably feel-good hits like “Hold My Hand” and “Only Wanna Be With You,” the band still finds time to reunite, recently stopping by the Late Show with David Letterman this past April, 20 years after their breakthrough performance on the show.
But it's Rucker's more recent stint as a country star that has him topping the charts these days. Following his highly successful career with his band, Rucker set out on his own, first releasing an R&B album in 2002 and later finding his footing in the country genre when he signed with Capitol Records Nashville in 2008.
Releasing his first hit single, “Don't Think I Don't Think About It” to rave reviews, he followed with two more No. 1 singles: “It Won't Be Like This For Long” and “Alright.” These instant hits sealed the deal and proved Rucker was here to stay, earning him the coveted New Artist Award from the Country Music Association.
So where is Darius Rucker today? He's still lighting up the charts, following up his debut album with hits like “Come Back Song,” “This,” “Homegrown Honey” and the popular remake of the classic song “Wagon Wheel,” originally sketched by Bob Dylan.
Armed with his guitar and signature smile, Rucker is taking his talents on the road once again, playing to crowds as varied as his music—from the Hootie & the Blowfish lifelong fan to those just discovering him. But these days, Rucker is in a “Southern State of Mind,” and we hope he stays there for a long while.
DETAILS
June 19: Gexa Energy Pavilion, concert starts at 7 p.m.
Performing with Brett Eldredge, Brothers Osborne and
A Thousand Horses