For Immediate Release / Greensboro, NC: Nu-Blu and WGHP Fox 8 have teamed up to extend the popular Triad Holiday Food Drive into the Thanksgiving season. The fundraising concert will be held at the Carolina Theatre in downtown Greensboro, NC on November 18th, show time is 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.carolinatheatre.com and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Seating is limited and all seats are general admission.
Proceeds from this event will go to the Salvation Army food pantry as part of Fox 8's annual food drive, now spanning over 3 decades. Nu-Blu can be seen weekly on Fox 8 as the hosts of the popular show Bluegrass Ridge which airs Friday nights at midnight. “This seems like a natural progression to this partnership,” says Daniel Routh of Nu-Blu. “We have been a part of the telethon the past two years for the food drive, so now that things have opened back up, we wanted to be a bigger part in helping to make sure that no one goes hungry, anytime of the year!”
Please join in this event and help end hunger in the Triad!
Bluegrass Ridge and Country Fix Adds 85 New TV Affiliates Nationwide Following New Blockbuster Deal with Telco productions and Syndication
Nashville, Tenn. - The goal with the hit TV shows Bluegrass Ridge and Country Fix has always been to bring the bluegrass and Country genres to the largest audience possible, and carry on the tradition which started with bluegrass founding father Bill Monroe. The programs are now taking it one step further, by adding the music-driven shows into rotation on 85 new TV stations throughout the United States alone. These include top markets like New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, Tampa and all the way to Honolulu, while also airing on affiliates in Bluegrass stronghold cities like Nashville, Lexington, Norfolk and beyond (find Bluegrass Ridge in your area HERE).
In addition to the new broadcast areas, the show, and its sister TV show Country Fix, will continue to air nationwide on satellite/cable affiliates Heartland, The Family Channel, RightNow TV, YTA TV, Stryk TV, Fox 8, and Country Roads TV. Each program offers a special insight into the latest trends and music in the evolving world of Bluegrass. With new 30-minute episodes airing weekly hosted by Nu-Blu, viewers can always count on something new and exciting as the band presents new episodes worldwide, with upcoming episodes taped on location throughout the USA and Ireland.
“Country Fix and Bluegrass Ridge deliver to the viewers the music they love. These two series have been in production for over two decades,” says president of CJM Productions Jeff Moseley. “Now through our alliance with Alex Paen - President Telcoproductions/Syndication has escalated our TV viewership to include over 85 broadcast TV markets. This along with our cable, satellite and streaming partners gives country and bluegrass music fans worldwide the opportunity to see their favorite artists. We are very excited about this growth and thank our viewers for their loyalty over the years.”
Bluegrass Ridge co-hosts Daniel and Carolyn Routh add to the excitement by saying, “We are so excited to be able to take bluegrass music into even more homes here in the USA. Even though it has its roots in countries all over the world, this music serves as a 'melting pot' for many cultures. It's a true history of the United States and continues to tell the tales of those that live and love this music."
About Bluegrass Ridge:
Bluegrass Ridge features music videos from Bluegrass music’s biggest artists like Rhonda Vincent, Ricky Skaggs Darin and Brooke Aldridge and IIIrd Tyme Out just to name a few. Bluegrass Ridge also features a special artist interview or Behind The Scene view of the making of their music video. It’s hosted by husband-and-wife duo Daniel and Carolyn Routh of the top Billboard charting bluegrass band Nu-Blu.
Nu-Blu Releases DVD “The Stories We Can Tell” for streaming on Amazon Prime and Tubi
Nashville, Tenn. - Just in time for the holidays, Nu-Blu is excited to announce another way for fans to watch their DVD, “The Stories We Can Tell.” Beginning today, viewers can now stream the documentary right on their smart TVs on both Amazon Prime and Tubi. It features an exclusive in-depth interview with founders Daniel and Carolyn Routh, along with performances of several of their biggest hits. It’s the perfect way to spend time at home, whether visiting relatives or quarantining.
Speaking of the holidays, Nu-Blu’s Christmas themed project Shine is also available now physically at your favorite record store or Amazon. Shine is a collection of five holiday songs, all with a unique Bluegrass / Americana twist. Aside from the thought-provoking title track, penned by Kristy Jackson (Take It Back – Reba McEntire) and Megan Conner (Rascal Flatts, Chris Young, The Swon Brothers), the EP includes other holiday favorites like Jingle Bells” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” as well as seasonal sacred tunes “Mary Did You Know” and “What Child Is This.”
With 2021 on the horizon, the award-winning group is set to release their next full-length album Where You’ve Been. The collection features the lead single, “Horse Thieves and Moonshiners,” along with the inspirational recording “Jesus Loves You” featuring Gospel music powerhouse vocalist Jody McBrayer of the multi-Grammy nominated quartet Avalon. The latter has already begun turning heads across multiple genres, peaking at No. 2 on the Bluegrass Today Gospel Weekly Airplay Chart. Stay tuned as more details become available!
Though touring is currently limited due to COVID-19 restrictions, fans can keep up with all things Nu-Blu by visiting their official website HERE. It gives fans the opportunity to sign up for the band’s email list, where you’ll be the first one to get all of the news on upcoming tour dates, music, news stories and more!
Nu-Blu Teams With Avalon’s Jody McBrayer on Powerful New Inspirational Single “Jesus Loves You”
For award-winning acoustic band Nu-Blu, the journey has been an interesting one. After making waves as a band for over 17 years, charting No. 1 hits and having their music featured everywhere from CBS “Sunday Morning” to Fox News, they’re excited for the next chapter. The group is happy to announce the release of their brand new inspirational single, “Jesus Loves You” featuring Contemporary Christian music powerhouse vocalist Jody McBrayer of the multi-Grammy nominated quartet Avalon.
“We sometimes all get caught up in material things, the pomp and circumstance, the endless rhetoric that clouds our thoughts,” says Nu-Blu’s lead singer Carolyn Routh. “It’s easy to lose sight of the only constant of our existence. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Jesus Loves You.”
With founders Daniel and Carolyn Routh initially getting their musical start together in a Contemporary Christian band, the milestone marks a full-circle moment for the North Carolinians. After hearing “Jesus Loves You” for the first time, the band instantly knew it was a track they wanted to record. But with life, everything happens for a reason and each experience and lesson leads to the current moment. With so much instability and uncertainty going on in the world at the moment, the track delivers a perfect message about unity and inspiration when it’s needed most, with lyrics saying once you take away everything else in the world, the only thing left is “Jesus Loves You.”
Gospel music fans are likely familiar with Jody McBrayer from his work with 6-time Dove winner’s, Avalon. Over the years, they’ve charted 22 No. 1 singles and have also been awarded an American Music Award as well. “I was honored to sing with the incredibly talented Nu-Blu on their single, ‘Jesus Loves You,’” said McBrayer. “The song speaks to my soul and reminds me that, when you strip away all of the noise and chaos of life, the love of our Savior remains constant through it all.”
The venture into the Gospel market further expands Nu-Blu’s prowess in the music industry. Serving as the host of the nationally-syndicated TV program “Bluegrass Ridge,” the group can be seen every week on top channels like the Circle Network, Heartland and more. In the past, the band has teamed up with top artists across multiple genres including the Gospel Hall of Fame Statler Brothers singer Jimmy Fortune, ‘Queen of Bluegrass’ Rhonda Vincent and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ‘Soul Man’ Sam Moore (of the duo Sam and Dave).
Horse Thieves And Moonshiners #1 Video on National Video Chart!
Top Ten Billboard group Nu-Blu is moving full steam ahead towards the release of their next record, Where You’ve Been, set for release in early 2021 via Turnberry Records. As the anticipation continues to grow, the band is excited to unveil the brand new western-themed music video for their current Bluegrass single, “Horse Thieves and Moonshiners” (watch HERE). Fans can also download and stream the track HERE.
“How can you not have fun on a genuine movie set in the middle of the wild west?” says Nu-Blu’s Daniel Routh. “Making this video was two days of nothing but fun and laughs. It really shows off each of the band members personalities, and it's such a great song. We hope everyone will take the time to look into their past. Who knows what you’ll learn about your ancestors!”
The video was shot in California earlier this year, just as the COVID-19 outbreak was beginning. While out west, and in spite of the fact that wind, snow and cold prevented them from the scheduled shoot day, Nu-Blu was able to record the quintessential western sunset. The majority of the video was filmed on-location at a movie set in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Taking multiple days to complete the shoot, Nu-Blu had enough time to capture the band’s fun-loving spirit from start to finish before being forced to return home to NC due to tour cancellations.
In addition to founding members Daniel and Carolyn Routh, the full band was also on display throughout the video for “Horse Thieves and Moonshiners.” They were joined by Justin Harrison and Austin Hefflefinger, who will also be returning to the road as a part of Nu-Blu, once tour dates begin starting back.Vents Magazine says, “With the addition of Harrison and Hefflefinger, Nu-Blu is taking the next step into the future by capturing a sound that is sure to set the world on fire.”
Another track included on Nu-Blu’s forthcoming Where You’ve Been album is the song, “Jesus Loves You.” The cut features a powerful collaboration with Contemporary Christian singer Jody McBrayer, who is a member of the Dove-winning band Avalon. With founders Daniel and Carolyn Routh initially getting their musical start together in a Contemporary Christian band, the collaboration marks a full-circle moment for the North Carolinians. After making waves as a band for over 17 years, charting No. 1 hits, and having their music featured everywhere from CBS “Sunday Morning” to Fox News, Nu-Blu is excited for the next chapter.
Nu-Blu Announces Partnership with Quilts of Valor Foundation On New DVD Release
Special DVD Release Parties slated for Nashville, Tenn. at The Station Inn and Raleigh, N.C. at World of Bluegrass
Nashville, Tenn.- Award-winning Acoustic band Nu-Blu is excited to announce they are teaming w ith the Quilts of Valor Foundation® on the release of their new DVD, “The Stories We Can Tell,” available on September 21st. The non-profit is a national organization with groups in each state, whose focus is making quilts to present to service members and veterans as a 'thank you' for their service.
Each DVD sold in digital or physical format will result in a portion of the proceeds going directly to the Quilts of Valor Foundation.Physical or Digital copies of “The Stories We Can Tell” can be purchased at www.nu-blu.com.
As the band's first release on Turnberry Records, the project includes performances of 11 songs, including the No. 1 radio hit “640 Battlefield Drive, “ plus additional interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. Nothing is off limits as the band opens up about their biggest triumphs and challenges. Interviews recorded at their home in N.C. were conducted by Bluegrass personality and DJ Buddy Michaels of the Hometown Festival. Included with the DVD purchase is a free download of a brand new song, “One Tear,” which was originally made famous by Bluegrass legends the Osborne Brothers.
“Through songs and images we find ways to meet new people, build relationships and expand our horizons. Quilts of Valor Foundation and QOV's are becoming recognizable images throughout our country. Often you will see an image of a service member or veteran with a quilt; chances are, it is a Quilt of Valor. We are so pleased to note that we've also been heard - by Nu-Blu! It is with gratitude and a growing sense of excitement that we share our Quilts of Valor journey with Nu-Blu. We are honored that they share their songs in order to raise awareness of Quilts of Valor and our Mission to 'cover' service members and veterans with gratitude.” -Tammany McDaniel (Executive Officer QOVF)
Two special events have been planned to launch this partnership. A release party at the world famous Station Inn in Nashville, TN will take place on September 21st from 9-11pm. Nu-Blu will be performing songs from the DVD as well as having some special surprises. Make plans now to join them for an evening that you won’t soon forget. Representatives from the Quilts of Valor Foundation will also be on hand to make a quilt presentation to Nashville area veterans. An additional release party will be during the week long World of Bluegrass in Raliegh, NC. This free event will be held on Friday night, September 27th at 11pm in the Marriott Hotel, Congressional Ballroom. Fans can purchase tickets ahead of time for the Station Inn showHERE.
About QOVF:
Formed in 2003 by Catherine Robert, Quilts of Valor® was created to fulfill a lifelong dream to deliver healing through special made quilts, which are presented to service members and veterans (learn moreHERE). It is the mission of the non-profit “to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing.” The Quilts of Valor® Foundation is a non-profit organization established and operated in accordance with section 501(c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code.
About Nu-Blu: ;
Hailing from Siler City, NC, the textbook definition of a picturesque small southern town, Nu-Blu’s heart and soul is husband-and-wife duo Daniel and Carolyn Routh. Carolyn’s caramel-coated soprano is one of the band’s defining traits, at times a tender lullaby, at times a freight train headed straight for you, but always unwinding a surprising tale. Daniel is the group’s backbone, a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist who also handles band management. Austin Hefflefinger on banjo, and Justin Harrison on fiddle/mandolin round out the quartet’s warm, layered, American roots sound. Together they deliver upbeat, blazing-fingers pick work just as well as gentle, heartwarming ballads, and they do it all with a natural togetherness that can’t be faked, forged over hundreds of shows on the road.
Nu-Blu also hosts the internationally-syndicated TV show, Bluegrass Ridge. The program is available in 160 million homes in the US, airing on multiple networks like the Heartland Network, the Z Living Channel (seen onDish Network, COMCAST, ATT Uverse, Sling Television, Amazon Fire TV), The Family Channel, Keep It Country - UK and Country TV - New Zealand, and streaming online atwww.bluegrassridgetv.com“Bluegrass Ridge” , along with the RadioCast Bluegrass Ridge Radio, holds the distinction of being bluegrass’ premier bluegrass series, and the largest media source in the genre.
Award-Winning Banjo Prodigy Austin Hefflefinger Joins Nu-Blu
Nu-Blu is pleased to announce the addition of Austin Hefflefinger to the band. At just 14 years old, the banjo extraordinaire has already began to gain momentum, as the reigning winner of the Maryland State Banjo Competition in both 2017 and 2018, along with finishing first place at the 2018 Scott Street Five String Finals. Fans can catch him on all upcoming Nu-Blu tour dates.
“I think it's important to love the music that you're playing,” says Hefflefinger. “That's the first thing that attracted me to Nu-Blu. There's just something that ‘clicks’ playing on stage with them. I feel blessed to have this opportunity, and can't wait to meet new people on the road!”
Nu-Blu is on tour in support of their latest DVD, “The Stories We Can Tell.” Included on the project is exclusive interviews, along with never-before-told stories about struggles members Daniel and Carolyn have faced on the road and throughout life. The band has also taken over as the permanent hosts of “Bluegrass Ridge,” the genre’s premiere television show, which is syndicated nationwide and airs in 110 million homes weekly.
“It’s always inspiring to find a young musician with the talent and passion that Austin plays with,” says Carolyn Routh. “We’re excited to have him as our new bandmate and are looking forward to what the future brings.”
Nu-Blu Named Permanent Host of the Hit Television Series “Bluegrass Ridge”
As revealed exclusively on Heartland TV and legendary WSM 650-AM’s hit show Coffee, Country and Cody, award-winning band Nu-Blu is pleased to announce they will be taking over as the permanent host of the nationally syndicated television series “Bluegrass Ridge.” With the first two Nu-Blu hosted episodes, fans will get a glimpse inside the music of members Daniel and Carolyn Routh, with exclusive two-part special edition episodes featuring all Nu-Blu, shot on-location at The Station Inn in Nashville, Tennessee (check local listings).
“We’re extremely excited about Daniel and Carolyn Routh of Nu-Blu becoming the permanent hosts of ‘Bluegrass Ridge,’” said executive producer Jeff Moseley/CJM Productions. “Our tradition of bringing great Bluegrass music videos and artist interviews to our viewers remains the same. Nu-Blu’s love and passion of Bluegrass music, as well as their relationships with fellow Bluegrass artists brings an insider-depth to the show.”
The special two-part edition of “Bluegrass Ridge” is music fan’s chance to meet Nu-Blu as the new hosts, and get to know them on a more personal level. The special edition episodes will air on Heartland TV the week of July 30 and August 6. Featuring a combination of brand new music videos, the chart-topping group is taking Bluegrass music to the next level, now reaching millions of new viewers and listeners. “The best part of being a performer is all the folks we get to meet and the friends that we make. We look forward to even more of those friendships as we join viewers each week on Bluegrass Ridge,” says Daniel.
The regular hosted “Bluegrass Ridge” shows are set to begin airing the week of August 13, and beyond. The popular weekly 30-minute program features music videos from bluegrass’ biggest acts, along with artist interviews and behind-the scenes content, allowing viewers a rare first-hand look at a genre that’s never been hotter. Along with Heartland TV, “Bluegrass Ridge” also airs on The Family Channel, Keep It Country – UK and Country TV – New Zealand (check local listings). Bringing a new flair to the program, Nu-Blu will help propel the show to a new level, capturing interviews with guest artists both in-studio and while on the road playing festivals and venues nationwide.
So far, 2018 has proven to be a career-defining year for Nu-Blu, who are currently on tour in support of their latest album, Vagabonds. The album boasts three Top Ten national airplay hits, “Gypsies on Parade” and “640 Battlefield Drive,” and the lead single “Still Small Voice,” a song that was co-written and features Country Music Hall of Fame Statler Brothers singer Jimmy Fortune. Don’t miss as these tracks, along with other songs from the project are featured on future episodes of “Bluegrass Ridge.”
CBS Sunday Morning - Jesus and Jones with the Legendary Sam Moore
An exclusive look at the video for "Jesus and Jones," by R&B legend Sam Moore and bluegrass group Nu-Blu.
Exclusive premiere: 'A Lot More Love' music video by Nu-Blu
Acoustic country band Nu-Blu has revealed their brand new music video for their single, "A Lot More Love." Digital Journal has the exclusive premiere.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH “A LOT MORE LOVE”
The song "A Lot More Love" is the second track featured on their latest studio album, Vagabonds, which was released independently on Voxhall Records. This marks their first release to mainstream country.Regarding their latest single, Carolyn Routh from the band told Digital Journal, "This is one of those great songs that just must be heard."Routh continued, "It is a reminder that we can all benefit from embracing our commonalities rather than focusing on our differences. We can all use a 'A Lot More Love.'"With this song, Nu-Blu stepped out of their comfort zone, and they tackled more controversial issues.Nu-Blu is comprised of such band members as Carolyn Routh, Daniel Routh, Calder Baker, and Justin Harrison. They hail from Siler City, North Carolina."A Lot More Love" is available on iTunes, and on Spotify.To learn more about acoustic group Nu-Blu and their new single "A Lot More Love," check out their official Facebook page, and their website.
Nu-Blu Become Newest Members Of CMA
Daniel and Carolyn visited with Brandi Simms and Brenden Oliver at CMA Headquarters in Nashville, TN a couple weeks ago and now we are so excited to announce that Nu-Blu is the newest member of the CMA family!
Nu-Blu Delivers Positive Vibes With Debut Country Single “A Lot More Love
Nashville, Tenn.- Acoustic Country band Nu-Blu has revealed their brand new single, “A Lot More Love,” which is impacting radio now. The feel-good song serves as the group’s first release to mainstream Country. Radio programmers can download the empowering anthem on Play MPE now. The track is also available for download and streaming on all digital platforms. The band unveiled the official video for the song exclusively on Digital Journal (watchhere).
Nu-Blu stepped outside of their comfort zone, tackling more controversial issues with “A Lot More Love.” The edgy lyrics detail how two opposing views, no matter how strongly felt, can all be forgotten with the universal language of love. The opening line details two cars beside each other at a stoplight, one a member of the NRA and the other a soccer mom with a rainbow sticker. Media is already raving about the message, with outlets like Music Update Central saying, “Whether you’re young or old, white or black, or Democrat or Republican you can appreciate how Nu-Blu is trying to make the world a better place through their music.
“We are thrilled to have the chance to get the message in this song out. Everyday brings a new challenge that seems to divide us, not just as Americans, but as human beings. Our message of ‘A Lot More Love’ isn’t meant as one of ‘just love each other.’ Instead, it’s one of realizing that what makes us the same is greater than what makes us different.” -Carolyn Routh
Sunday Kind Of Country
We had a chance to stop by and visit with Robby Lynn at Sunday Kind Of Country and talk about our new Country single release . Check it out by CLICKING HERE!
Nu-Blu on Coffee, Country & Cody
What a great morning on WSM Radio and the Coffee, Country & Cody show!
Thank You to Music Row Magazine!!!
We stopped off in Nashville at the Music Row Magazine offices, and they were kind enough to snap a couple of pics with us and include it in the chart page collage for the week! HOW AWESOME! View More Here
Nu-Blu Celebrates Fourth of July With Military Tribute Video for “640 Battlefield Drive”
Just in time for Independence Day, award-winning acoustic band Nu-Blu has unveiled the video for their song, “640 Battlefield Drive.” The song has already began turning heads in music circles, storming its way onto the Bluegrass Today Grassicana Weekly Airplay Chart. Fans got a first-look of the video on Bluegrass Today, where it premiered exclusively (watch here).
This song brings to light the dangers on the battlefield while a nation is at war. The story impacts multiple people, from the front lines of the fighting, all the way back to the home front, down to a mother, residing at “640 Battlefield Drive.” Everyone has a battle to fight, each in their own way, but nonetheless the danger is equally real to all involved.
“Sometimes you get these tunes and you just know that you’ve got to do it – you’ve got to cut it, and it’s got to go on the CD. On the first listen through, we definitely knew that this song had to go on the album,” said Daniel Routh. “This is a song that’s not about the band, it’s not about Nu-Blu, its about remembering the sacrifice given.”
The song is featured on Nu-Blu’s latest album Vagabonds. The project includes 11 all-new recordings like the lead single, “Still Small Voice” featuring Country Music Hall of Fame Statler Brothers singer Jimmy Fortune, along with the mainstream anthem, “A Lot More Love.” Fans can purchase “640 Battlefield Drive” and Vagabonds on iTunes, or stream on Spotify.
Nu-Blu Unveils Video for Latest Single “Gypsies on Parade” Exclusively with Cowboys & Indians
Rising Bluegrass/Americana group Nu-Blu is pleased to announce the release their latest single, “Gypsies on Parade.” The song serves as the band’s debut release to Grassicana radio. The award-winning group partnered with Cowboys & Indians to unveil the official video for the track (check it out here). The publication is well-known for spotlighting and featuring top entertainers in multiple fields such as Willie Nelson, Matthew McConaughey, Clint Eastwood, and more. Cowboys & Indians describes Nu-Blu as a band who, “blends their Southern roots into heartfelt all-American music.”“Touring over 200 days a year, ‘Gypsies On Parade’ is more than just a song, it’s our life,” said Nu-Blu’s Carolyn Routh. “It’s a life of ups and downs, and we wanted to bring each of you a glimpse of that.”
“Gypsies on Parade” is featured on the band’s latest release, Vagabonds, released via Voxhall Records. The lyrics from the track helped to determine the title of the album, with the key line, “gypsies on parade, vagabonds that got it made.” The track might sound familiar to some fans, as ‘Gypsies’ was written by Sawyer Brown’s Mark Miller and released on their 1986 album, Out Goin’ Cattin’. The original served as the inspiration for Nu-Blu’s new, Bluegrass/Americana take on the Country band’s song.
Media is already raving about Nu-Blu’s version of the song. Backstage Axxess states, “It’s a bold statement but ‘Gypsies on Parade’ is to Bluegrass as Bob Seger’s ‘Turn the Page’ is to Rock and Roll.” Digital Journal calls the rendition a “delicate performance,” while Vents Magazine calls Carolyn Routh’s vocals on the track “mesmerizing, and one of the most standout performances in the genre in the last year.”
Nu-Blu will continue to spread their music to new audiences throughout North America during their “Vagabonds Tour.” With festival season kicking into high gear throughout spring and summer, Nu-Blu is set to have one of their busiest touring years to date. Already in 2018, the band has made major appearances at the national NAMM show in Anaheim, Calif., along with playing the Watson stage at MerleFest in N.C. For the latest tour dates, and all things Nu-Blu, visit nu-blu.com.
Nu-Blu Featured Artist For Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine!
Nu-Blu was chosen as the cover and feature artist for the month of February 2018! Read the feature article below:
Nu-Blu
Finds Success As A Cross-Genre Outfit
By Michael K. Brantley
I always tell people we’re a bluegrass band and sometimes get a puzzled look from them,” said Nu-Blu cofounder Daniel Routh. “Then I have to explain what bluegrass is and we always tell them it’s acoustic music played with power and drive, upbeat, and with passion. Sometimes, we have to explain drive and I just say, ‘Think of your favorite rock band, playing acoustic, without drums.’ I know that’s not a full description of bluegrass, but you have to find a way to relate the music to something they can understand.”
Daniel and his wife, partner and co-founder Carolyn, have lots of conversations with fans that have had little exposure to bluegrass music. Nu-Blu is on the road over 200 days a year, playing all types of venues and to all types of audiences and music listeners. Those listeners often have outdated or simply untrue perceptions about what constitutes bluegrass.
Nu-Blu, which also features T.J. Honaker on vocals and banjo and Justin Harrison on vocals and mandolin, is out promoting its new album and sixth national release, Vagabonds, on Voxhall Records. The North Carolina-based band feels it is their strongest effort yet.
Daniel said, “When people ask about our sound, we tell them to listen to Vagabonds.”
While the album is new, the concept has been in the works for well over a decade. “The concept for this album came about when Carolyn heard Sawyer Brown do their song ‘Gypsies On Parade’ live. We’ve known since 2003 when we formed the band, we wanted to record this song. It sets the mood for the whole album, and the title comes out of that song—from a line that says: Vagabonds that got it made.”
The new album is different in several ways for Nu-Blu. It’s the first effort that doesn’t include any songs written by the Rouths.
“How this came together is unusual,” Daniel said. “We typically don’t record cover songs, and Vagabondshas more cover tunes than we’ve ever done. We usually write songs or get songs from other songwriters and go with whatever fits that particular project best. We’re very careful about how an album flows.”
Daniel said it’s why this album was lingering in the background for so long. “When we record a song, we have to make sure we feel something—happy, sad, angry, something. It needs to hit us emotionally, and it also has to fit the whole story we’re trying to tell with the album. For example, ‘Still Small Voice’ was pitched to us a couple of albums ago, and it just didn’t fit, but when we were working on Vagabonds, Carolyn knew instantly that the timing was right for it. That’s happened on just about every album. Sometimes, you just have to wait on things to come around.”
That’s exactly what happened with “Gypsies On Parade.” An early review referred to the song as the bluegrass equivalent of rocker Bob Seger’s “Turn The Page,” as it talks about life on the road. “It’s about being away from family,” Daniel said. “With us, you just can’t sing about it, you’ve got to live it. When we started, we were weekend warriors then, and we’re full-time now. We are more like vagabonds now—we know that emotion. At some point during the recording, we were all crying. Doing what we do, there are things that you have to sacrifice. But in the end, we have the best job in the world—to make people smile.”
A beginning that almost wasn’t
Music brought the Rouths together earlier this century. They were both playing in a contemporary Christian band together, and Daniel was moonlighting on banjo with another band. When both groups broke up around the same time, Carolyn suggested they start a bluegrass band. However, just as they were starting out, the unthinkable happened.
“I had two strokes right after we started the band in the fall of 2003,” said Carolyn, who was in her early 30s at the time. “It was two incidents on Thanksgiving Day that happened at about the same time and affected two spots on my brain. At the onset, I couldn’t form words at all and then was in a medically-induced coma for three or four days. When I came out, I could talk.”
Undeterred, the duo (who married in 2006) got right back after it. Carolyn credits much of that to an early music teacher and mentor, Dr. JoAnn Bowman. “It was a dream to start a band, and Dr. Bowman taught me to keep going and the importance of how the show must go on; when you’re scheduled to perform, you perform,” she said. “I’m very goal-oriented. I’ve been blessed to have come back and now be full-time.”
Both of the Rouths got their starts in music early. As a teenager, Daniel got his first taste of bluegrass on a Sunday morning ride to church. “My dad was flipping through the dial on the radio and I heard something and said, ‘Whoa, flip back. What was that?’ And he said, ‘That’s bluegrass.’ It was Flatt & Scruggs doing ‘Foggy Mountain Breakdown.’ I was hooked.” His father took him around to play with local musicians, and Daniel started on guitar before moving to banjo. He said that time was key and very formative to his musical development. “It was then that I realized music was something I could do as a career.”
Carolyn got her start in the same setting, albeit earlier, in her hometown of Siler City, N.C. “I started singing as a little-bitty thing in a typical country Baptist church,” she said. “I took piano on and off, and I learned to read music, and I still see the keys in my head when I play bass. Even in high school, everything I did centered around music and learning to sing properly.”
Nu-Blu released Nights in 2010, The Blue Disc in 2011, Nail By Nail in 2012, and a tenth anniversary CD appropriately titled Ten in 2013. In 2014, All The Way was released, the title-track is a Carl Jackson tune and there was a guest appearance by Rhonda Vincent. That was also the year that proved pivotal for the group when they participated in a George Jones tribute, recording “Jesus And Jones” with Sam Moore of the legendary duo Sam & Dave. “That really helped knock down some genre walls for people outside of bluegrass,” Carolyn said. “It opened a lot of doors. We got a lot of media and a lot of phone calls. We were on Imus In The Morning, Huckabee, and Ronnie Reno’s show, among other national broadcasts and interviews. Then we had ‘That’s What Makes The Bluegrass Blue,’ which was the most played song on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction in February of 2015.”
As the band went full-steam ahead, they continued playing many shows outside of bluegrass venues, and they’ve played in 47 of the 48 continental states. The Rouths believe it not only expanded Nu-Blu’s base, but also helped them to become bluegrass ambassadors. “We do traditional bluegrass shows and festivals, but we also get invited to do more general music events. What’s exciting is that we’re able to take bluegrass music to a whole lot more people. We’re exposed to hundreds of thousands more people,” Daniel said. “We always have folks who come up to us and have never realized or paid attention to bluegrass and say, ‘Wow, we really liked your music.’ Then when we come back around to those places, they tell us they’ve been to a bluegrass festival or show. We’re helping to get more people into the bluegrass fold, and that’s very satisfying and part of a much bigger picture.”
Daniel said a performance at the NAMM show (a music products convention) a couple of years ago is a great example. “The pop and rock guys were right in front of the stage, and they thought it was acoustic rock,” Daniel said with a laugh. “That’s what holds true with bluegrass. People don’t get it until they see it live. They are used to large bands with lots of musicians and a front person, then they see a bluegrass band with just a few people, and they see what everybody’s doing and how it works together.”
Carolyn said that the expansion to other venues has been important to the business ledger as well. “The momentum we have created helps, and it is a business. You have to realize it’s called the ‘music business’ for a reason. It’s good to step outside bluegrass and see what other people are doing and to get the larger picture. You’ve got to be thinking about what is the next step. Adding Webster Public Relations in Nashville to our team, who don’t just represent bluegrass, has also opened doors. The music world is a small community, and there is respect and camaraderie from other genres.”
Carolyn said that she and Daniel also want to offer encouragement to other musicians. “People say you can’t make a living in bluegrass, it’s impossible. I get frustrated when I hear that. We should encourage young people who dream to do this, who want to entertain. We shouldn’t tell them ‘you need another job’ to do this. We should say, ‘You’ve got to work hard and structure your time, and learn the business.’”
While they are enjoying their exposure outside of bluegrass, Nu-Blu plans to stay true to its core and its belief that good music is good music. “A great song is a great song,” Daniel said. “We’ve got straight-up bluegrass on this album, and then we’ve got tunes like ‘Knocking On Heaven’s Door.’ On the side of our tour bus we have printed: ‘Bending the Boundaries of Bluegrass.’ We will always be a bluegrass band, but we’re kind of stretching what areas that bluegrass can exist in. We’re reaching people who didn’t or wouldn’t normally listen, and for me, that’s gold. That’s when we expand the music.”
Carolyn takes that a step further. “The heart of it is that it starts with a good song, and a good song is one you want to hear again and again. It doesn’t matter the genre if it sparks an emotion. I love where we are right now. This album started with ‘Gypsies,’ and we aren’t just singing it—it’s my life. I’m thankful everyday. It’s a great life, and a great big world with lots of stages, and I want to play as many of them as possible.”
Nu-blu Graces Cover of The Bluegrass Standard
Nu-Blu is on the cover of the February issue of The Bluegrass Standard. Click here to read the full issue online!
Justin Harrison to Nu-Blu
With 2018 already in full swing, Nu-Blu is happy to announce the addition of Justin Harrison to the band. The 24-year-old Morehead State University graduate from the Traditional Music Program will serve as the group’s new mandolin player. Harrison will join other band members, including lead singer / bass player Carolyn Routh, lead guitarist Daniel Routh and banjo player TJ Honaker.
“The move to join Nu-Blu was an easy choice to make. They are poised to make big moves in the next several years, and the band structure and marketing is set up like none that I’ve ever seen,” says Harrison. “I am looking forward to all the music and memories to come."
Harrison has a rich history as a musician, with the performer’s father also playing mandolin. The instrumentalist has experience performing for Bluegrass fans already, after a recent tenure with The Karl Shiflett & Big Country Show. The North Carolina native also has experience touring stateside and internationally, including a tour in China with the Morehead State University Mountain Music Ambassadors Band.
“Timing is everything, and that’s definitely evident with the way things have worked out to bring Justin into Nu-Blu,” said Daniel Routh. “With the opportunities we have on the horizon and the direction we are going, he’s the perfect fit for the band.”