ADAM MCINTOSH UNVEILS HIS ‘RESTLESS’ SPIRIT IN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ALBUM RELEASE

ADAM MCINTOSH UNVEILS HIS ‘RESTLESS’ SPIRIT IN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ALBUM RELEASE

NASHVILLE, TENN. (March 22nd 2024) - Today, Billy Blue Records star Adam McIntosh releases his first solo album, Restless, promising to keep audiences anything but restless. The 13-track album is a collection of toe-tapping, soul-stirring melodies and relatable, thought-provoking lyrics. Available on all streaming platforms NOW - listen HERE.  

The album, 25 years in the making, with an accumulation of original material as well as a few fresh takes on bluegrass classics, is a testament to McIntosh’s lifelong dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression. From the infectious rhythms of the lead single, “Baby, You Ain’t Baby Anymore,” written by Jerry Salley and Jenee Fleenor, to the dynamic title track,“Restless,” McIntosh effortlessly captures the essence of wander, love, longing, and resilience.

Adding to the allure of the album, McIntosh’s rendition of the timeless Eagles classic,“Peaceful, Easy Feeling,” pays homage to the iconic band while showcasing his own unique interpretation and undeniable talent. Elevating the richness and depth of the musical arrangements within “Peaceful, Easy Feeling,” McIntosh enlisted the talents of his sister, Angie McIntosh Lewis on harmonies. Additionally, other tracks feature familiar bluegrass stand-outs such as Jesse Smathers and John Meador of Authentic Unlimited. 

“I am really proud of this project,” Adam McIntosh states. “I’ve spent 25 years collecting ideas and planning this collection of music. I’m blessed to have some of my favorite musicians and singers helping me deliver the best performances possible. It is my honor to present Restless on Billy Blue Records, available now!”

Jerry Salley, director of A&R for Billy Blue Records stated, “Over the years, Adam McIntosh has established himself as one of the smoothest lead vocalists in the bluegrass genre as a longtime member of Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers. Today, all of us at Billy Blue Records are excited to present Adam’s very first solo album, “Restless”. With a strong collection of songs as his foundation, this project was recorded, arranged and self-produced by Adam, and displays his creative versatility as a musician and vocalist. We are honored for the opportunity to represent him and to release this exciting new album to bluegrass music lovers everywhere”.

TRACK LISTING: 

1. Baby, You Ain’t Baby Anymore

2. Fences

3. Restless

4. Girl Behind The Bar

5. Eat, Drink and Be Merry

6. Every Time A Train Goes By

7. Weekend Lover

8. Say Something

9. Is It True

10. Peaceful, Easy Feeling

11. Touch of God’s Hand

12. Come Along, Pond

13. Higher Than I

AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED AGAIN RELEASING TWO NEW ALBUMS AT ONCE

AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED AGAIN RELEASING TWO NEW ALBUMS AT ONCE

SO MUCH FOR FOREVER AND 

GOSPEL SESSIONS VOLUME 2

AVAILABLE ON ALL STREAMING PLATFORMS MARCH 29TH

NASHVILLE, TENN. (March 8th, 2024) – IBMA’s 2023 New Artist of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year, Authentic Unlimited, will release two highly-anticipated new albums on March 29th from Billy Blue Records. This is the second time the band has released two albums at once, signaling their passion for both Bluegrass AND Gospel music. Their previous two releases, the self-titled Authentic Unlimited and Gospel Sessions Vol. 1, debuted at #4 and #5 on the Billboard Bluegrass charts. So Much For Forever and Gospel Sessions Volume 2 will deliver a signature blend of their unique and soulful melodies along with heartfelt lyrics. 

Pre-order So Much For Forever HERE and Gospel Sessions Volume 2 HERE. 

Authentic Unlimited’s So Much For Forever album features 13 tracks showcasing the group's harmonious vocal blend, unique storytelling ability, and exceptional musical talent. Their single, “Fall in In Tennessee” (ft. Jerry Douglas), released in June 2023 and their single, “Big Wheels,” released on January 19th, generated immense anticipation for the upcoming album. Their title track, “So Much For Forever,” and “I Can’t Let Go” eloquently and uniquely articulate the raw relatable emotion of the beauty and heartbreak of life. “A Drive at Dusk”  and “Benfield Line” sees the group's musical talent take center stage without the need for words. 

"Every Authentic Unlimited song tells its own unique story. Some end in heartbreak and even tragedy, while others offer a hint of light at the end of the tunnel and even full-blown joy and inspiration,” says Jerry Cole, member of Authentic Unlimited. He continues by stating, “The collection of tunes making up So Much For Forever explores human frailty in relationships and the raw and real emotions emanating from people who put their hearts on the line for love. Of course, we do love some fun music, so the listener will find that it is possible to hear a sad tale and tap your foot at the same time!” 

Authentic Unlimited’s “Gospel Sessions Volume 2” features powerful vocals and uplifting melodies, essential characteristics of Gospel music. Offering 12 tracks such as, ”Thank You Lord for Grace,” which came in at #1 on Singing News Bluegrass Chart, “Come On In,” and “You’ve Been a Blessing to Me,” the album is a testament to the band’s reverence for the Gospel tradition while breathing new life into the genre. The group's unparalleled musicianship and dedication to their craft is on full display in additional tracks such as “Help Me Endure” and “Troublesome Waters.” 

Jerry Cole further adds, “When we started Authentic Unlimited, we were very intentional about including Gospel music on our recordings and in our performances. Nothing has changed in our hearts and intentions. We are proud to present Gospel Sessions Vol.2, a wonderful collection of bluegrass songs that give honor, thanks, and glory to God! These are songs from our souls focused on the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus at Calvary, promises He faithfully keeps, and many other themes. We want to continue to give praise to Him through our music!” 

So Much For Forever

1. Big Wheels

2. Goodbye

3. Ain’t Got Time

4. Praying for the Night

5. Fall in Tennessee

6. A Drive at Dusk

7. Ruby Ann

8. Beenfield Line

9. I Can’t Let Go

10. Misty Vale Intro

11. Misty Vale

12. Second to None

13. Reflection

Gospel Sessions Volume 2

1. Cry From The Cross

2. Come on In

3. Memories of Home

4. To the Cross

5. Wings of Love

6. Help Me Endure

7. You Know What I Need

8. Troublesome Waters

9. Written Up There 

10. Thank You Lord for Grace

11. Won’t it be Wonderful

12. You’ve Been a Blessing to Me

DONNA ULISSE’S MOUNTAIN LILY ALBUM RELEASES FEBRUARY 23RD

DONNA ULISSE’S MOUNTAIN LILY ALBUM RELEASES FEBRUARY 23RD

NASHVILLE, TENN (FEBRUARY 23, 2024) – Donna Ulisse’s new album, Mountain Lily, releases today. The recently crowned 2024 SPGBMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America) Songwriter of the Year is ready to unveil her latest Billy Blue Records’ release which expertly weaves together elements of Bluegrass, Folk, Gospel, and Americana, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both timeless and deeply resonant. Ulisse invites listeners on a soul-stirring journey, romanticizing the beauty of everyday life. 

The ten-track album is a testament to the enduring power of mountain roots music. “Don’t Time Drag” and “My Constant Savior” showcase the incredible vocal talent which got her signed to Atlantic Records at the beginning of her career. “Where the Mountain Lilies Grow” displays her unique storytelling ability and evokes the timeless beauty and rugged spirit of the mountains. The album carries with it a sense of longing and nostalgia and is a testament to her unparalleled artistry and talent. Every song is infused with raw emotion and authenticity. 

“I have been making records for more than half my life now, a long time indeed, and without a doubt, this is my best album yet,” says Donna Ulisse. “To have two of my best friends, the incomparable Doyle Lawson and multi-talented Jerry Salley, my heroes and mentors, put their extraordinary talents into my music and pull vocals out of me that have been hiding somewhere inside, is proof that it’s never too late to teach an old dog a new trick or two! Thanks to my Billy Blue Records family, Mountain Lily will always live like a mighty oak in the heart of me!”

A&R and Creative Director of Billy Blue Records, Jerry Salley, commented, “With one of the most beautiful voices in bluegrass music today, Donna Ulisse shines on Mountain Lily and proves without a doubt that she is at the top of her game. It was a real honor to work with Donna and Doyle Lawson on this new album.”

Track Listing:

Ain’t No Sleepin’ In This House *

(Donna Ulisse/Marc Rossi)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Marc My Words Music (ASCAP)

Don’t Time Drag *

(Donna Ulisse/Marc Rossi)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Marc My Words Music (ASCAP)

It’s A Lovely, Lovely World +

(Boudleaux Bryant)

Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (BMI)

Safe *

(Donna Ulisse) 

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)

Rollin' *

(Donna Ulisse)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)

Nothing Between You And Me *

(Donna Ulisse/Rick Stanley)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Pop’N Paw Publishing (ASCAP)

I’m Fallin’ +

(Donna Ulisse/Carl Jackson/Ilya Toshinskiy)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Colonel Rebel Music/ASCAP

Where The Mountain Lilies Grow +

(Donna Ulisse/Larry Cordle)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Wandachord Music (BMI)

The Trees Came Falling Down +

(Donna Ulisse/Jerry Salley)

Uncle Hadley Music/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)/Very Jerry (SESAC)

My Constant Savior *

(Donna Ulisse/Taylor Amos)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)

Produced by Doyle Lawson*

Produced by Jerry Salley+

BOB MINNER JOINS BILLY BLUE RECORDS

BOB MINNER JOINS BILLY BLUE RECORDS

NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 20, 2024) - Billy Blue Records proudly announces the signing of esteemed musician and songwriter Bob Minner to its roster. With a prolific career spanning decades, Bob brings a wealth of talent and experience to the label, enriching its diverse catalog with his remarkable skill and passion for music.  

As an expert banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and resonator guitar player, Bob Minner has captivated audiences worldwide with his performances. Playing acoustic guitar for Tim McGraw for 31 years and uniquely blending bluegrass, country and folk, into his four solo albums, Minner has earned his reputation as one of the most respected musicians within the industry. Throughout Minner’s illustrious career, he has contributed to numerous albums with cuts by Authentic Unlimited, Blue Highway, Tim McGraw, Volume Five, Dailey & Vincent, Ronnie Bowman, Jim Lauderdale & The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Shannon Slaughter, Blue Moon Rising, and others. He has been nominated for multiple bluegrass awards, such as IBMA Collaboration Of The Year and SPBGMA Song Of The Year.

In celebration of the new venture, Bob Minner said, “I am extremely honored to be a part of Billy Blue Records. I was raised in a deep bluegrass upbringing in Missouri, and even though I’ve made a living in country music as a guitarist, bluegrass has always been my creative passion. Billy Blue stands as a premier bluegrass label in our industry, and I’m looking forward to creating new music, as well as releasing my first record for Billy Blue, currently in production. We have some special events lined up for the record, and I hope everyone will enjoy listening to it as much as I have had making it. A huge thanks to Ed Leonard and Jerry Salley for this opportunity.”

Billy Blue Records is dedicated to supporting artists who are committed to excellence and pushing the boundaries of musical expression. The addition of Bob Minner to the label’s roster reflects a shared vision for innovation and a commitment to delivering exceptional music. 

Jerry Salley, director of A&R for Billy Blue Records, expressed his excitement of the addition to the Billy Blue roster by stating, “As a longtime, well-respected member of country superstar Tim McGraw’s band, Bob Minner has never abandoned his love for bluegrass music. He has been playing it since he was a very young man. His tribute project, the star studded, From Sulphur Springs to Rising Fawn , honoring the legendary Norman Blake, is a perfect example of his love for the bluegrass genre and his respect for its musical giants and their influence on his career. Billy Blue Records is excited and proud to represent Bob Minner’s future bluegrass projects, which includes another upcoming project of multiple guests, which features Bob’s incredible songwriting, musicianship, and production arrangements. I am personally very proud to call him my friend, and our entire team looks forward to a long and mutually beneficial musical relationship. “ 

DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE BRING NEW LIFE TO “PRICE I PAY”

DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE BRING NEW LIFE TO “PRICE I PAY” 

“PRICE I PAY” RELEASES, TODAY, FEBRUARY 9th (ALBUM APRIL 19th) TO RADIO AND ALL STREAMING PLATFORMS AND FEATURES LEGENDARY VIRTUOSO GUITARIST JOHN JORGENSON

NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 9, 2024) -- Acclaimed musical duo Darin and Brooke Aldridge are set to captivate audiences once again with their soulful rendition of Chris Hillman's (Desert Rose Band) classic, "Price I Pay” (aka The Price I Pay). The track releases, today, February 9th, to radio via AirPlay Direct and all streaming platforms. Known for their exceptional vocal harmonies and instrumental expertise, the husband-and-wife duo bring a fresh and distinctive perspective to the song, which features the inimitable John Jorgenson (Desert Rose Band, Earl Scruggs, Bonnie Raitt, Elton John, Luciano Pavarotti, Bob Dylan, and many others) on guitar.  

Chris Hillman shares his excitement about the rendition, “I absolutely love Darin and Brooke Aldridge’s wonderful version of my song ‘Price I Pay’. HI am truly honored, as I know my co-writer, the late Bill Wildes would be, too. Excellent production by my pal, Mark Fain. This is a great record…..smokin’ red hot!”  

John Jorgenson adds, “’Price I Pay’ holds a special spot in my musician’s heart, as it was used as a “barn-burning set-closer” for nearly every Desert Rose Band (DRB) concert from 1986-1991. It started with a short, mood-setting electric guitar intro that morphed over the years into a full-fledged feature. When Darin and Brooke invited me to recreate that part for their new acoustic version of the song, I immediately and emphatically said, “yes!”. Two challenges faced me then-first, to create a similar feeling guitar part including some of the original licks, but using an acoustic guitar without the delay effect I’d used on the DRB version, and, secondly, to complete the recording in a timely manner when I was going to be in Australia! Thankfully both things worked out, and I was able to record my guitar and the harmony vocals in my hotel room in Brisbane. What a treat it is to sing a third vocal part along with the special blend that Darin and Brooke are known for and to be part of such a successful re-imagining of Chris Hillman’s DRB classic. Special thanks to Mark Fain for his mixing skills. Nobody would ever know by listening that we were recording on separate continents!” 

As the duo reimagined “Price I Pay,” Brooke and Darin infused the track with their signature style, creating a rendition that unmistakably stands out within the music landscape.  

Darin and Brooke added, “We have loved ‘Price I Pay’ since we heard The Desert Rose Band’s cut from the late ‘80s. The lyrics really hit home, taking us back to our dating days. We were willing to pay the price for love and wanting to be with each other, even if sometimes it meant being away from each other for longer than we would’ve liked. These days, being married and sharing the same musical career, we no longer have to worry about that! What an honor to work on this song with the legendary John Jorgenson and to have the song debut on Chris Hillman’s Burrito Stand show on Sirius XM. Get your replay button ready. We hope ‘Price I Pay’ will be stuck in your head for a long time!”

The single will be available to music lovers across all DSPs, today February 9th. 

DONNA ULISSE’S MOUNTAIN LILY ALBUM RELEASES FEBRUARY 23RD

DONNA ULISSE’S MOUNTAIN LILY ALBUM RELEASES FEBRUARY 23RD

NASHVILLE, TENN (FEBRUARY 5, 2024) – Mark your calendars for the release of Donna Ulisse’s new album, Mountain Lily, on February 23rd. The recently crowned 2024 SPGBMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America) Songwriter of the Year is ready to unveil her latest Billy Blue Records’ release which expertly weaves together elements of bluegrass, folk, Gospel, and Americana, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both timeless and deeply resonant. Ulisse invites listeners on a soul-stirring journey, romanticizing the beauty of everyday life. 

The ten-track album is a testament to the enduring power of mountain roots music. “Don’t Time Drag” and “My Constant Savior” showcase the incredible vocal talent which got her signed to Atlantic Records at the beginning of her career. “Where the Mountain Lilies Grow” displays her unique storytelling ability and evokes the timeless beauty and rugged spirit of the mountains. The album carries with it a sense of longing and nostalgia and is a testament to her unparalleled artistry and talent. Every song is infused with raw emotion and authenticity. 

“I have been making records for more than half my life now, a long time indeed, and without a doubt, this is my best album yet,” says Donna Ulisse. “To have two of my best friends, the incomparable Doyle Lawson and multi-talented Jerry Salley, my heroes and mentors, put their extraordinary talents into my music and pull vocals out of me that have been hiding somewhere inside, is proof that it’s never too late to teach an old dog a new trick or two! Thanks to my Billy Blue Records family, Mountain Lily will always live like a mighty oak in the heart of me!”

A&R and Creative Director of Billy Blue Records, Jerry Salley, commented, “With one of the most beautiful voices in bluegrass music today, Donna Ulisse shines on Mountain Lily and proves without a doubt that she is at the top of her game. It was a real honor to work with Donna and Doyle Lawson on this new album.”

Track Listing:

Ain’t No Sleepin’ In This House*

(Donna Ulisse/Marc Rossi)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Marc My Words Music (ASCAP)

Don’t Time Drag*

(Donna Ulisse/Marc Rossi)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Marc My Words Music (ASCAP)

It’s A Lovely, Lovely World+

(Boudleaux Bryant)

Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (BMI)

Safe*

(Donna Ulisse) 

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)

Rollin'*

(Donna Ulisse)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)

Nothing Between You And Me*

(Donna Ulisse/Rick Stanley)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Pop’N Paw Publishing (ASCAP)

I’m Fallin’+

(Donna Ulisse/Carl Jackson/Ilya Toshinskiy)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Colonel Rebel Music/ASCAP

Where The Mountain Lilies Grow+

(Donna Ulisse/Larry Cordle)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/Wandachord Music (BMI)

The Trees Came Falling Down+

(Donna Ulisse/Jerry Salley)

Uncle Hadley Music/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)/Very Jerry (SESAC)

My Constant Savior*

(Donna Ulisse/Taylor Amos)

Uncle Hadley Music (ASCAP)/BillyBlue Publishing (ASCAP)

Produced by Doyle Lawson*

Produced by Jerry Salley+

BILLY BLUE RECORDS RECEIVES MULTIPLE SOCIETY FOR THE PRESERVATION OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC OF AMERICA AWARD NOMINATIONS

BILLY BLUE RECORDS RECEIVES MULTIPLE SOCIETY FOR THE PRESERVATION OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC OF AMERICA AWARD NOMINATIONS

NASHVILLE, TN (January 16, 2024) – Billy Blue Records is honored by the recognition of its outstanding creators who received 19 nominations across various categories at the upcoming 49th Annual Society For the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA) Awards.The SPGBMA Awards recognize excellence within the bluegrass genre. The nominations reflect the exceptional talent, dedication, and creativity that define Billy Blue’s commitment to delivering top-notch music to bluegrass fans worldwide. The SPBGMA awards ceremony will be held at the Sheraton Music City Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, on January 27th, 2024. 

Jerry Salley, A&R director of Billy Blue Records commented, “We are so proud of each and every one of our creators and celebrate the Billy Blue nominations for this years’ 40th Annual SPBGMA Awards! What a great way to start the new year. Thanks to SPBGMA and their loyal members and bluegrass fans who support all of these incredible musicians, singers and songwriters.”

Among the notable nominations are:

BLUEGRASS SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

Donna Ulisse

Rick Lang

Jerry Salley

BLUEGRASS SONG OF THE YEAR

“Fall In Tennessee” - Authentic Unlimited 

BASS FIDDLE PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

Zak McLamb (Alan Bibey & Grasstowne)

DOBRO PERFORMER OF THE YEAR 

Jacob Metz (Darin & Brooke Aldridge)

MANDOLIN PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

Chris Davis (Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers)

Alan Bibey

Jesse Brock (Authentic Unlimited)

BANJO PERFORMER OF THE YEAR 

Joe Mullins

FIDDLE PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

Jason Barie (Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers)

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR 

Kristy Cox

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR 

John Meador (Authentic Unlimited)

GOSPEL GROUP OF THE YEAR

Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers

Authentic Unlimited 

VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR 

Authentic Unlimited 

BLUEGRASS BAND (OVERALL) OF THE YEAR 

Authentic Unlimited 

Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers

BLUEGRASS ENTERTAINER(S) OF THE YEAR

Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers

DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE UNVEIL HEARTWARMING HOMETOWN HOLIDAY ALBUM, SPREADING CHEER ON NOVEMBER 17TH

NASHVILLE, TENN. (November 17, 2023) – Distinguished Bluegrass/Americana duo Darin & Brooke Aldridge are set to captivate audiences this holiday season with the release of their highly-anticipated album, Hometown Holiday. Available on November 17th from Billy Blue Records, the album is a soul-stirring celebration of (and reflection on) the season, showcasing the duo's exceptional musical mastery and harmonious vocal blend. 

Hometown Holiday album features 13 exceptionally curated tunes each imbued with the duo’s signature style, from spirited tracks evoking the joy and fun of the season (“With Bells On,” “The Chipmunk Song,” and “Must Be Santa” to tender ballads celebrating the true meaning of Christmas like “Who Do You Think,” “Noel,” and “Light of the Stable.” The album includes non-traditional songs (“River” (Joni Mitchell) and “It Wasn’t His Child” (Skip Ewing)) which explore the challenges the season brings for some and the importance of family. Brooke Aldridge, four-time consecutive winner of International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) Female Vocalist of the Year prize, soars on “Breath of Heaven,” while Darin Aldridge’s distinctive tenor voice is featured on a wonderful bluegrass take on the Beach Boys classic, “Little Saint Nick.” Hometown Holiday promises to be a delightful addition to every holiday playlist.

The album features the duo’s vocal and instrumental prowess along with the considerable talents of Cody Kilby (guitar), Samantha Snyder (fiddle), Jacob Metz (dobro), Stuart Duncan (fiddle), Tim Surrett (bass) and Mark Fain (bass).

Darin and Brooke share their excitement about the newly released album sharing, “Christmas is a time for coming together, and we hope our music brings joy, warmth, and happiness to homes around the world this holiday season. This album is a showcase of some of our favorite tunes of the season that we have loved throughout the years. These songs are sure to transport listeners back to the place where their heart yearns to be during this special time.”

To see the Hometown Holiday EPK click HERE.. If you would like a reviewed copy of the album, please feel free to reach out to Demi Hofstetter at demi@wortmanworks.com.

AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED AWARDED VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR AND NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR AT THE 34TH ANNUAL IBMA BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS

NASHVILLE, TN (OCT. 4TH, 2023) – Authentic Unlimited (AU) was awarded coveted Vocal Group of the Year and New Artist of the Year recognition at the 34th annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards held on September 28th at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, NC. The recently-formed bluegrass group has catapulted to great success earning them admiration from peers and fans alike. As the group sets their sights on future endeavors, the vocal talent and musical abilities paired with hard work will continue to capture the hearts of bluegrass music listeners.  Band member Jesse Brock was also recognized at the ceremony for his nomination for Mandolin Player of the Year.

Jerry Cole, member of Authentic Unlimited stated, “It is such an honor to be recognized by the IBMA and its members for doing what we love to do! I am forever grateful to our team at Billy Blue Records, our many fans, and those who have supported Authentic Unlimited!”

Ed Leonard, president of Billy Blue Records, expressed his congratulations by stating,“We could not be prouder of Authentic Unlimited.  We are humbled by the appreciation the bluegrass community has shown them. These guys make great music together and work so hard. It is wonderful to see them receive accolades like this.” 

About Authentic Unlimited: 

Stephen Burwell

Stephen is the son of Edwin and Cheryl Burwell of Lake Jackson, Texas. At age 4, the family moved to Washington. He learned to play fiddle when he was 8. In 2014, he moved to North Carolina, where he auditioned for Doyle Lawson only a few days after the move. He was made part of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver on October 1, 2014. He describes Lawson as "the best boss ever" and contributes much of his dedication to the craft to the years spent in Quicksilver. Stephen is also a recording engineer and has a studio located at his home. Stephen is a newlywed, married to his wife Haley in September, 2021.

 Jerry Cole

Jerry was born in 1974, and raised in Sharps Chapel, Tennessee. He has been around music his entire life. He is the son of Jerry Lee and Nancy Cole. He has two older siblings and two younger. At the age of 6, his father taught him to play guitar. Jerry Lee sang with The Betterway Quartet for nearly 30 years. During Jerry Lee's practice sessions at home, young Jerry learned to sing lead and harmony. Jerry began touring with Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad, recording two albums with the band. He later joined Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out where he stayed for 3 years. In December 2018, Jerry joined Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver where he stayed until Lawson's retirement in December, 2021.

 Eli Johnston

Eli was born near Branson, Missouri, to parents David and Alycia Johnston. He was raised in southeastern Kansas after his father had taken a job at the hospital there as a surgical nurse. He has two younger brothers, one a musician and the other a police officer. Eli's grandfather, Joe Riker, bought Eli his first guitar when he was 11. Seeing that his son had a love of music, David would drive Eli all over the country, attending festivals. Eli joined his first band, Nothin' Fancy, while he was in high school. Later, he became a member of Pine Mountain Railroad. In 2013, Eli joined Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. During his time there, two of Eli's songs were recorded by the band. Eli is married to wife Keasley, and they have two children, 3 year old Huxley and a newborn named Boone.

Jesse Brock

Jesse is the son of C.W. and Starre Brock who hails from Kentucky. He grew up in a musically inclined family and began singing at the age of 7. At 8, he learned to play the fiddle but soon decided that he was better suited for the mandolin. His first experience as a band member was with his family. Since then, he has performed with some of the top acts in the industry. His efforts were recognized in 2009, and again in 2015, as he was awarded IBMA Mandolin Player of The Year. Jesse is married to wife Kristine.  

 John Meador

Meet John Meador who is from East Tennessee. John is the son of Marty Meador and Jenice Harper. He plays guitar and is one of the lead and harmony vocalists. John says he began singing before he was walking. His father began teaching him to play the guitar when he was 12 years old. John joined his first band (Kentucky Just Us) at the age of 14, along with his younger brother. When he was 16, he was offered a scholarship in music that he completed while he was still in high school. John is married to wife Grace and they have a daughter, Bethany.

About Billy Blue Records

Billy Blue Records is a boutique bluegrass label and home to an award-winning roster of artists including Adam McIntosh, Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, Appalachian Road Show, Authentic Unlimited, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Dave Adkins, Donna Ulisse, Jason Barie, Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers, Kristy Cox & Grasstime, Marty Raybon & Full Circle, The Tennessee Bluegrass Band, Carson Peters & Iron Mountain, and critically-acclaimed concept recordings like the Grammy-nominated “Gonna Sing Gonna Shout” and 2021’s star-studded “Country Faith Bluegrass.” Founded in 2018 by Jerry Salley, Ed Leonard, and Dottie Leonard Miller, Billy Blue is distributed to retail by the Orchard (Sony) and New Day Distribution. 

BILLY BLUE RECORDS SIGNS ADAM MCINTOSH

NASHVILLE, TENN. (September 22nd, 2023) – Billy Blue Records signs Adam McIntosh, an extraordinary addition to their talented artist roster. Starting his music career at an early age, McIntosh continues to follow his passion by creating music that touches his listeners by inspiring joy and comforting those who may be hurting. Billy Blue Records will release McIntosh’s debut single “Baby, You Ain’t Baby Anymore” on October 13th, with an album release Restless to follow in early 2024.

McIntosh stated, “What a blessing! I am thrilled to announce my upcoming album Restless on Billy Blue Records! This record has been a long time in the making. I was only 18 years old when I started playing bluegrass music on the road with Dry Branch Fire Squad and knew even then that I wanted to record a project like this one day.” 

He added, “The Covid pandemic gave me a new perspective, and that year I redoubled my efforts and finished my bachelor’s degree. I took time to reflect on what I wanted to do musically and decided it was time to buckle down and really work on this project. I collected songs from a few of my favorite writers as well as songs that speak to me that perhaps the general bluegrass audiences may have never heard. More than anything, I wanted to produce a collection that touches the listener. There are songs that make you tap your foot, some that make you sing along, and others that just might make you cry.”

“I am honored to be working with Billy Blue Records on this project. I was adopted into the Billy Blue Records family when I returned to Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers in 2019. I could tell right away that their dedication and professionalism was second to none. Thank you to Ed, Jerry, and Kyle for believing in me and encouraging me! I am thankful for the talents of some heroes and friends on this record as well, including Mike Rogers (percussion and vocals, Ron Stewart(banjo), Scott Vestal (banjo), Ned Luberecki (banjo), Jason Barie (fiddle), Mitch Meadors (mandolin), Evan Lanier (banjo), John Meador (vocals), Jesse Smathers (vocals), Dale Perry (vocals), Don Rigsby (vocals), and Angie McIntosh Young (vocals). It was an amazing experience making music with these extraordinarily talented individuals,” stated McIntosh.

Jerry Salley, director of A&R for Billy Blue Records, commented, “Billy Blue Records is grateful for the opportunity to represent this exciting collection of great songs performed by one of the very top male vocalists in bluegrass music!”

About Adam McIntosh:

From a young age Adam showed an interest in music of all kinds, but at 14 years old he fell in love with Bluegrass music. At 16, he and two friends from school earned a job playing music at a local amusement park. Two years later, Adam was hired to go on the road playing guitar and singing tenor for Dry Branch Fire Squad where he stayed for a three-year stint. After leaving Dry Branch in 2003 to start a family with his wife, Adam received a call from banjo man Joe Mullins in 2005, setting into motion “Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers.” After six and a half years as the Radio Rambler’s guitarist and lead vocalist, Adam left the road again in 2013 to work for Dennis Vance at The Mandolin Store, returning to music soon after with a short stint with American Drive and then again with Dry Branch Fire Squad guitarist. In 2019, Adam rejoined Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers, who won the International Bluegrass Music Association’s top honor as Entertainer of the Year. During the pandemic “shutdown” Adam used his spare time to double his studies and in December of 2021 graduated from Lee University with a Bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Leadership with an emphasis in Counseling.

About Billy Blue Records:

Billy Blue Records is a boutique bluegrass label and home to an award-winning roster of artists including Alan Bibey and Grasstowne, Appalachian Road Show, Authentic Unlimited, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Donna Ulisse, Jason Barie, Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers, Kristy Cox, Marty Raybon, The Tennessee Bluegrass Band, Carson Peters and Iron Mountain, and critically-acclaimed concept recordings like the Grammy-nominated “Gonna Sing Gonna Shout” and 2021’s star-studded “Country Faith Bluegrass.” Founded in 2018 by Jerry Salley, Ed Leonard, and Dottie Leonard Miller, Billy Blue is distributed to retail by the Orchard (Sony) and New Day Distribution.