With Release of 'Carolyn's Boy' Charleston's Favorite Son Performs & Signs New Album Saluting His Mother

Jeff Walker, Entertainment Writer

Charleston's favorite son Darius Rucker celebrated the release of his latest release 'Carolyn's Boy' with an album signing and impromptu concert on Thursday (Oct 5th) at Monster Music 946 Orleans Rd. in West Ashley. 

Named for his beloved mother who encouraged Rucker to embrace all types of music, the new album includes 14 tracks co-written by Rucker alongside gifted songwriters such as Josh Osborne, Ross Copperman, Ben Hayslip, and HARDY, as well as Ed Sheeran who worked with Rucker on 'Sara'.

'Carolyn's Boy' includes the previously released chart topping single 'Beers and Sunshine' which Rucker recorded during the pandemic. It found its way to number one on the US Country Airplay charts and reached number seven on the Hot Country Charts back in the fall of 2020.

The tribute to his mother and his 8th country music album overall is Rucker's first solo release in six years, following on 2017's 'When Was The Last Time'. Since taking country music by storm in 2008 Rucker has amassed 10 number one songs beginning with his debut country song 'Don't Think I Don't Think About It' from the multi-platinum selling album 'Learn to Live'.

Honoring the fire marshal's code, 90 ticketed patrons were treated to a 40 minute concert where Rucker offered up some of his greatest hits including cuts from the new record and Hootie & the Blowfish. Growing up less than 10 minutes from Monster Music, Rucker thanked fans and his beloved Charleston for supporting his country music career. Guests left with a signed copy of 'Carolyn's Boy' with a few lucky ones getting Rucker to put his signature on Hootie albums and Gamecock memorabilia.

With the official release of the new album set for Oct 6th, popping in to do a private show, sign autographs, and take photos shows how much Rucker cares about his hometown community, with the event an ideal lead in to his second annual Riverfront Revival this coming weekend. Rucker is set to perform on Saturday night at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. Overall it's been a good week for Rucker who was just added to the Music City Walk of Fame in Nashville on Wednesday. A well deserved honor. 

While there are a few record shops that embrace the resurgence of vinyl, no one has more or does more for new and vintage music (LPs, CDs, & DVD's) than Monster Music. Kudos to new owner Galen Hudson and his team for executing a smooth running event. Patrons I spoke with were over the moon with excitement to spend personal time with Rucker and appreciated Monster Music for hosting. A good time was had by all. 

To keep up on all things Darius Rucker including new music, merchandise and his tour schedule visit his website at https://www.dariusrucker.com/welcome