Diamond Rio
Photo Credit: Robby Klein
(Nashville, Tennessee – July 7, 2023) Known for making timeless country music for over thirty years, Diamond Rio is thrilled to announce the release of their latest video and song, “The Kick.” The highly anticipated instrumental track not only showcases the Grammy award-winning band’s talents, but also signifies a new chapter in their distinguished career with the introduction of two new bandmates.
The formation that became known as the six-time Vocal Group of the Year, Diamond Rio, was formed in 1989 and consisted of Marty Roe (lead vocals), Jimmy Olander (guitar/banjo), Dana Williams (bass/vocals), Dan Truman (piano), Brian Prout (drums), and Gene Johnson (mandolin/vocals), and up until recently have had no member changes. After a remarkable 33-year journey, the band bid farewell to retiring members, Brian Prout and Gene Johnson, and welcomes new bandmates, Carson McKee (fiddle/harmony vocals) and Micah Schweinsberg (drums).
“The Kick,” is the first song and video to be released under the new band configuration and displays the mastery of their respective instruments as it delivers a captivating blend of country meets bluegrass. The fast-paced and musically intriguing instrumental features the two new members in the accompanying music video filmed in Franklin, TN. The video was directed by the band’s drummer and new member Micah Schweinsberg. The band’s long-time guitar player, Jimmy Olander, developed and wrote the treatment.
Watch the official music video here. Listen to “The Kick” here.
Marty, Jimmy, Dan, and Dana have been sharing the stage with two new faces, Micah Schweinsberg on drums and Carson McKee on fiddle/mandolin and harmony vocals. “Micah is an unbelievable musician. He brings renewed energy to our live performances,” says Roe. Over the years, Micah had subbed in at various shows and developed a friendship that would ultimately land him the open position. “Being in Diamond Rio, for me, is the story of a young musician who eventually got to be in his favorite band. I have admired the talent of Diamond Rio for over 30 years. I tell people constantly that I’ll always be a fan of this band first, whether I’m in it or not,” shares Schweinsberg.
“Carson was not what we were looking for to start. We wanted another Gene, but that doesn’t exist. Carson is an amazing young musician and we are so lucky to have her. She can sing as high as Gene, which was hard to find, and her vocals blend so well with mine and Dana’s. She also brings an energy to the stage that keeps us old guys on our toes,” says Roe. Carson got the call to sub for Gene while preparing for six college exams and only four days to learn the show. She gladly jumped at the opportunity to play with one of her favorite bands. “Let me just say that Gene Johnson, you are my hero. Growing up, you were my hero, will always be my hero, and have left a mighty big footprint in this industry. I am honored and humbled with the chance to try and do your part the justice it deserves. You left some very high standards.”
Marty Roe reflects on the band changes, “Brian is the most musical drummer I’ve ever played with and Gene brought a uniqueness that will never be fully replaced. Diamond Rio’s vocal sound would not be the same without him. I will forever be grateful for the priceless contributions of my two partners. We all wish them well in their retirement.”
About Diamond Rio:
Originating as The Tennessee River Boys in the 80’s, the band evolved into Diamond Rio in 1989. The following year, they signed with Arista Nashville, and in 1991, with the release of “Meet in The Middle,” became the first country music group in history to reach No. 1 with a debut single. The band is also known for their multi-week chart-topper “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” crossover hit “One More Day,” as well as timeless hits “Beautiful Mess,” “Unbelievable,” “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” and many more.
Selling more than 6.8 million albums and surpassing over 1.05 billion global streams, Diamond Rio has charted 20 Top 10 singles, 15 Top 5 singles, and seven No. 1 singles. Known for playing every note on every album throughout their career, the band’s unwavering commitment to their craft is evident in their instrumental tracks “Big,” “Appalachian Dream,” and “Poultry Promenade,” all of which received Grammy nominations for Best Country Instrumental Performance. Following their Arista Nashville deal, the band released two albums with Word Records – their Christmas album, The Star Still Shines, and their Dove and Grammy-winning Christian Country album, The Reason.
Amassing numerous accolades throughout the years, the band is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, won six Vocal Group of the Year Awards (four CMA and two ACM), received fourteen Grammy nominations, and won a Grammy Award for their album, The Reason. Known for their charitable commitments, including long-time spokespersons for Big Brothers Big Sisters, the band has raised more than $1 million for non-profits and received the Minnie Pearl Humanitarian Award.
For more information, visit www.DiamondRio.com, and for press photos download here.
Follow Diamond Rio:
Facebook: @DiamondRio
Instagram/Twitter/TikTok: @DiamondRioBand
YouTube: @DiamondRioTV
“The Kick” Official Music Video
“The Kick” Cover Art
