Gene Watson’s Peers within the country music industry believe in the sheer talent of this unassuming man from east Texas, so much so that Gene is regarded by many of them as ‘the singer’s singer’ – and rightly so!
All of Gene Watson’s Peers, who were contacted by The Gene Watson Fan Site, during 2017, were most gracious with their time and words.
It is here, within this special part of The Gene Watson Fan Site, that you have an opportunity to read a quote from Ricky Van Shelton, which he submitted to this site on Saturday 21 January 2017.
Sean Brady would like to take this opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to Ricky Van Shelton who has made a special contribution to a unique part of this online ‘celebration of a Lone Star Hero’.
Sean Brady would also like to take this opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to Bettye Shelton without whom this Gene Watson Peer’s Quote from Ricky Van Shelton would not have been possible.
Sean Brady would also like to take this opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to Andy Landis without whom contact with Bettye Shelton would not have been possible.
Ricky Van Shelton
This quote was submitted on Saturday 21 January 2017.
‘Sean, it was interesting that, when Bettye presented your request, for a quote, to me, I was listening to Gene Watson’s CD, ‘Best of The Best: 25 Greatest Hits‘ (Fourteen Carat Music, 2012).
Gene Watson is the last of the country stars that sings pure country.
He is fabulous, pure and simple.
What else can I say?‘
Thank you, Ricky Van Shelton, for your support of Gene Watson.
About Ricky Van Shelton…
Ricky Van Shelton was born at Danville Regional Medical Center in Danville, Virginia, to Jenks and Eloise Shelton, on Saturday 12 January 1952, but was raised in Grit, Virginia and went to High School in Gretna, Virginia.
Although ‘Van’ is a common portion of surnames derived from people of Dutch origin, ‘Van’ in this case is Ricky’s middle name.
Ricky Van Shelton’s father sang Gospel music while he was still a child, and it is because of this that Ricky also sang Gospel music, but he also liked pop music too.
Ricky Van Shelton was soon in church, singing Gospel music. When he was a teenager, however, Ricky Van Shelton discovered country music and soon started singing in his brother’s band, singing country music, and performed at any local gathering he could.
After he graduated from high school, Ricky Van Shelton started performing in area clubs and also worked a series of jobs.
In 1984, Bettye Witt, his girlfriend at the time (and, since Monday 4 August 1986, Ricky’s wife), landed a job as a corporate personnel director in Nashville, and Ricky Van Shelton went along with her.
On Thursday 27 December 1984, Bettye Witt and Ricky Van Shelton headed into Nashville on Interstate 40, and Ricky played house-husband in a rental property not far from Opryland.
During the day, Ricky Van Shelton practised his vocal work and his songwriting, and worked up demos on a four-track machine in his basement. By night, he made the rounds of the Nashville club circuit, particularly The Nashville Palace, where he met former dish-washer, and future Warner Bros. Records recording artist, Randy Travis.
In the meantime, Bettye established a friendship with Linda Thompson and, when Linda heard Ricky rehearsing in his basement, she asked for one of his tapes. Linda Thompson took it home to her husband, columnist Jerry Thompson of ‘The Tennessean’, who eventually persuaded Columbia Records executive Rick Blackburn and producer Steve Buckingham to hear Ricky Van Shelton.
On Thursday 19 June 1986, Rick Blackburn and Steve Buckingham arranged a showcase to hear Ricky Van Shelton perform live at The Stock Yard, a downtown club, which was owned by Buddy Killlen (Sunday 13 November 1932 – Wednesday 1 November 2006).
Within two weeks, Ricky Van Shelton walked into a fully-fledged recording studio for the first time in his life.
Ricky Van Shelton recorded three songs on that recording session; ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (written by Alan Rhody), ‘Somebody Lied’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Larry Jenkins, and a cover of Ernest Tubb’s ‘Thanks A Lot’, which was written by Edward Monroe ‘Eddie’ Miller (Wednesday 10 December 1919 – Monday 11 April 1977) and Don Sessions.
Soon thereafter, Ricky Van Shelton was offered a recording contract with Columbia Records, with Jerry Thompson serving as his manager.
On Tuesday 26 May 1987, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of his debut album, ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included five tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard country music singles chart:
‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (written by Alan Rhody) (No.24, 1986)
‘Crime of Passion’ (written by Walt Aldridge and Mac McAnally) (No.7, 1987)
‘Somebody Lied’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Larry Jenkins (No.1 for one week in December 1987)
‘Life Turned Her That Way’, which was written by Harlan Howard (Thursday 8 September 1927 – Sunday 3 March 2002) (No.1 for one week in March 1988)
‘Don’t We All Have The Right’, which was written by Roger Miller (Thursday 2 January 1936 – Sunday 25 October 1992) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1988)
Ricky Van Shelton’s debut album, ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987) also included the following tracks:
‘Ultimately Fine’ (written by Samuel Lianas and Kurt Neumann)
‘I Don’t Care’, which was written by Buck Owens (Monday 12 August 1929 – Saturday 25 March 2006)
‘Baby, I’m Ready’ (written by Floyd Wilson)
‘Crazy Over You’ (written by Radney Foster and Bill Lloyd)
‘Workin’ Man Blues’, which was written by Merle Haggard (Tuesday 6 April 1937 – Wednesday 6 April 2016)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s debut album, ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987), included the following:
Eddie Bayers and Tommy Wells (drums)
Richard Bennett and Steve Buckingham (guitar)
Dennis Burnside, Randy McCormick and Tony Migliore (piano)
Larry Byrom and Don Potter (acoustic guitar)
Paul Franklin and Sonny Garrish (steel guitar)
Steve Gibson (electric guitar)
Hoot Hester (Monday 13 August 1951 – Tuesday 30 August 2016) (fiddle)
David Hungate, Tom Robb and Michael Rhodes (Wednesday 16 September 1953 – Saturday 4 March 2023) (bass guitar)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
John Wesley Ryles, Bergen White and Dennis Wilson (background vocals)
Harry Stinson (percussion)
Ricky Van Shelton’s debut album, ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987) reached No.1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1988 and was certified ‘Platinum’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Monday 24 July 1989.
On Tuesday 2 August 2011, T-Bird Americana released Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988), along with Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987), as a special ‘2-for-1’ CD set.
In June 1987, Tammy Wynette (Tuesday 5 May 1942 – Monday 6 April 1998) saw the release of ‘Higher Ground’ (Epic Records, 1987), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and featured a special guest, or guests, on each track; the album included three tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard country music singles chart:
‘Your Love’ (written by Beckie Foster and Tommy Rocco) (No.12, 1987) / this track featured background harmony from Ricky Skaggs
‘Talkin’ To Myself Again’, which was written by Jamie O’Hara (Friday 18 August 1950 – Thursday 7 January 2021) (No.16, 1987) / this track featured background harmony from The O’Kanes (Kieran Kane & Jamie O’Hara)
‘Beneath A Painted Sky’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Bucky Jones (No.25, 1988) / this track featured background harmony from Emmylou Harris
Tammy Wynette’s ‘Higher Ground’ (Epic Records, 1987) also included the following tracks:
‘Tempted’ (written by Al Turney) / this track featured background harmony from Gene Watson
‘Some Things Will Never Change’, which was written by Max D. Barnes (Friday 24 July 1936 – Sunday 11 January 2004) and Troy Seals / this track was a duet with Vern Gosdin (Sunday 5 August 1934 – Tuesday 28 April 2009)
‘I Wasn’t Meant To Live My Life Alone’ (written by Paul Overstreet and Don Schlitz) / this track featured background harmony from Vince Gill
‘Higher Ground’ (written by Steve Buckingham) / this track featured background harmonies from Larry Gatlin, Steve Gatlin & Rudy Gatlin
‘A Slow Burning Fire’ (written by Jan Buckingham and Valerie Smith) / this track featured background harmonies from Dennis Wilson, Harry Stinson, John Wesley Ryles and Ricky Van Shelton
‘There’s No Heart So Strong’ (written by Don Schlitz and Paul Overstreet) / this track featured background harmony from Paul Overstreet
‘All Through Throwing Good Love After Bad’, which was written by Guy Clark (Thursday 6 November 1941 – Tuesday 17 May 2016) and Richard Leigh / this track featured background harmony from Rodney Crowell and Jeanne Smith
Additional personnel involved in the recording of Tammy Wynette’s ‘Higher Ground’ (Epic Records, 1987) included the following:
Mark O’Connor (fiddle, mandolin, guitar)
Jerry Douglas (Dobro)
Mark Casstevens, Steve Gibson, Steve Buckingham and Zane Ashton (guitar)
Paul Franklin (steel guitar, Dobro)
Tom Robb (bass)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
Eddie Bayers (drums)
Randy McCormick (piano)
Jay Spell (accordian)
Tammy Wynette’s ‘Higher Ground’ (Epic Records, 1987) reached No.43 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1987.
On Friday 13 January 2017, England’s Morello Records released Tammy Wynette’s ‘Higher Ground’ (Epic Records, 1987), along with Tammy Wynette’s ‘Sometimes When We Touch’ (Epic Records, 1985), as a special ‘2-on-1‘ CD set (MRLL67).
On Friday 10 June 1988, Ricky Van Shelton was inducted as a member into The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
On Tuesday 20 September 1988, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included four tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard country music singles chart:
‘I’ll Leave This World Loving You’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015) (No.1 for two weeks in November / December 1988)
‘From A Jack To A King’, which was written by Ned Miller (Sunday 12 April 1925 – Friday 18 March 2016) (No.1 for one week in March 1989)
‘Hole In My Pocket’, which was written by Boudleaux Bryant (Friday 13 February 1920 – Thursday 25 June 1987) and Felice Bryant (Friday 7 August 1925 – Tuesday 22 April 2003) (No.3, 1989)
‘Living Proof’, which was written by Johnny MacRae (1929 – Wednesday 3 July 2013) and Steve Clark (No.1 for one week in October 1989)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988) also included the following tracks:
‘Swimming Upstream’ (written by Bucky Jones and Gary Nicholson)
‘Let Me Live With Love (& Die With You)’, which was written by Skip Ewing and Red Lane (Thursday 2 February 1939 – Wednesday 1 July 2015)
‘The Picture’ (written by Ricky Van Shelton, Troy Seals and Steve Buckingham)
‘Somebody’s Back In Town’, which was written by Doyle Wilburn (Monday 7 July 1930 – Saturday 16 October 1982), Teddy Wilburn (Monday 30 November 1931 – Monday 24 November 2003) and Don Helms (Monday 28 February 1927 – Monday 11 August 2008)
‘Don’t Send Me No Angels’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015)
‘He’s Got You’, which was written by Hank Cochran (Friday 2 August 1935 – Thursday 15 July 2010)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988), included the following:
Steve Buckingham, Farrell Morris, John Wesley Ryles and Dennis Wilson (background vocals)
Mark Casstevens and Larry Byrom (guitar)
Paul Franklin (steel guitar)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
Randy McCormick and Dennis J. Burnside (piano)
Mark O’Connor (fiddle)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988), reached No.1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1988 and was certified ‘Platinum’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Wednesday 20 December 1989.
On Tuesday 2 August 2011, T-Bird Americana released Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Loving Proof’ (Columbia Records, 1988), along with Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (Columbia Records, 1987), as a special ‘2-for-1’ CD set.
In 1989, Ricky Van Shelton recorded ‘Hillbilly Heart’, which was written by Troy Seals and Max D. Barnes (Friday 24 July 1936 – Sunday 11 January 2004); the track, which was produced by Steve Buckingham, was included on the soundtrack of the movie, ‘Next of Kin’ (Columbia Records, 1989), which starred Patrick (Wayne) Swayze (Monday 18 August 1952 – Monday 14 September 2009).
On Thursday 20 July 1989, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Ricky Van Shelton Sings Christmas’ (Columbia Records, 1989), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included the following tracks:
‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas’, which was written by Kim Gannon, Walter Kent (Wednesday 29 November 1911 – Wednesday 2 March 1994) and Buck Ram (Thursday 21 November 1907 – Tuesday 1 January 1991)
‘White Christmas’, which was written by Irving Berlin (11 May 1888 – Friday 22 September 1989)
‘Santa Claus Is Coming To Town’, which was written by John Frederick Coots (2 May 1897 – Monday 8 April 1985) and James ‘Haven’ Lamont Gillespie (6 February 1888 – Friday 14 March 1975)
‘Silver Bells’, which was written by Raymond Bernard Evans (Thursday 4 February 1915 – Thursday 15 February 2007) and Jay Livingston (Sunday 28 March 1915 – Wednesday 17 October 2001)
‘Silent Night’, which was written by Franz Xaver Gruber (25 November 1787 – 7 June 1863) and Joseph Mohr (11 December 1792 – 4 December 1848)
‘C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S’, which was written by Eddy Arnold (Wednesday 15 May 1918 – Thursday 8 May 2008) and Jenny Lou Carson (Wednesday 13 January 1915 – Saturday 16 December 1978)
‘Please Come Home For Christmas’ (written by Charles Brown and Gene Redd)
‘Pretty Paper’ (written by Willie Nelson)
‘Country Christmas’ (written by Don Schlitz and Ricky Van Shelton)
‘Christmas Long Ago’ (written by Don Schlitz and Ricky Van Shelton)
‘What Child Is This? (Greensleeves)’, which was written by William Chatterton Dix (14 June 1837 – 9 September 1898)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Ricky Van Shelton Sings Christmas’ (Columbia Records, 1989) included the following:
Eddie Bayers (drums)
George Binkley III, Conni Ellisor, Carl Gorodetzky, Ted Madsen, Dennis Molchan, Pamela Sixfin, Gary Vanosdale and Kristin Wilkinson (violin)
Mark Casstevens (guitar)
Roy Christensen (cello)
Al DeLory and Randy McCormick (piano)
Paul Franklin (steel guitar)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) and Craig Nelson (upright bass)
Louis Dean Nunley (The Jordanaires) (Thursday 15 October 1931 – Friday 26 October 2012), John Wesley Ryles, Dennis Wilson and Curtis Young (background vocals)
5th Avenue (additional background vocals)
Mark O’Connor (fiddle, mandolin)
Tom Robb (bass guitar)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Ricky Van Shelton Sings Christmas’ (Columbia Records, 1989) reached No.32 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1989.
On Tuesday 16 January 1990, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Ricky Van Shelton III’ (Columbia Records, 1990), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included four tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard country music singles chart:
‘Statue of A Fool’, which was written by Jan Crutchfield (Saturday 26 February 1938 – Thursday 1 November 2012) (No.2, 1989)
‘I’ve Cried My Last Tear For You’ (written by Tony King and Chris Waters) (No.1 for one week in June 1990)
‘I Meant Every Word He Said’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022), Bucky Jones and Curly Putman (Thursday 20 November 1930 – Sunday 30 October 2016) (No.2, 1990)
‘Life’s Little Ups & Downs’, which was written by Margaret Ann Rich (1934 – Thursday 22 July 2010) (No.4, 1990)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Ricky Van Shelton III’ (Columbia Records, 1990) also included the following tracks:
‘You Would Do The Same For Me’ (written by Rory Bourke and Mike Reid)
‘I’m Starting Over’ (written by Kix Brooks, John Wesley Ryles and Mark Sherrill)
‘Love Is Burnin’ (written by Donny Kees and Frank Myers)
‘Not That I Care’, which was written by Cindy Walker (Saturday 20 July 1918 – Thursday 23 March 2006)
‘Oh, Pretty Woman’, which was written by William Dees and Roy Orbison (Thursday 23 April 1936 – Tuesday 6 December 1988)
‘I Still Love You’ (written by Ricky Van Shelton)
‘Sweet Memories’, which was written by Mickey Newbury (Sunday 19 May 1940 – Sunday 29 September 2002) / this track was a duet with Brenda Lee
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Ricky Van Shelton III’ (Columbia Records, 1990) included the following:
Eddie Bayers and Tommy Wells (drums)
Barry Beckett and Randy McCormick (piano)
Larry Byrom and Mark Casstevens (guitar)
Paul Franklin and Tommy Hannum (steel guitar)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
David Hungate (bass guitar on ‘Sweet Memories’)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
Joey Miskulin (accordion)
Farrell Morris (vibes)
Louis Dean Nunley (The Jordanaires) (Thursday 15 October 1931 – Friday 26 October 2012), John Wesley Ryles, Lisa Silver, Bergen White and Dennis Wilson (background vocals)
Mark O’Connor (fiddle)
Tom Robb (bass guitar)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Ricky Van Shelton III’ (Columbia Records, 1990) reached No.1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1990, and was certified ‘Platinum’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Monday 8 April 1991.
On Saturday 6 April 1991, Dolly Parton saw the release of ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991), which featured collaborations with Lorrie Morgan and Ricky Van Shelton, with additional supporting vocals provided by Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris.
Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991), which was produced by Steve Buckingham and Gary Smith, included four tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart:
‘Rockin’ Years’, which was written by Floyd Estel Parton (Saturday 1 June 1957 – Thursday 6 December 2018) (No.1 for one week in April / May 1991) / this track, which was a duet with Ricky Van Shelton, was also included on Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Backroads’ (Columbia Records, 1991)
‘Silver & Gold’, which was written by Carl Perkins (Saturday 9 April 1932 – Monday 19 January 1998), Gregg Perkins and Stan Perkins (No.15, 1991)
‘Eagle When She Flies’ (written by Dolly Parton) (No.33, 1991)
‘Country Road’ (written by Dolly Parton and Gary Scruggs) (No.46, 1992)
Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991) also included the following tracks:
‘If You Need Me’ (written by Dolly Parton)
‘Best Woman Wins’ (written by Dolly Parton) / this track was a duet with Lorrie Morgan
‘What A Heartache’ (written by Dolly Parton)
‘Runaway Feelin’ (written by Dolly Parton)
‘Dreams Do Come True’, which was written by Bill Owens (1935 – Wednesday 7 April 2021)
‘Family’, which was written by Dolly Parton and Carl Perkins (Saturday 9 April 1932 – Monday 19 January 1998)
‘Wildest Dreams’, which was written by Dolly Parton and Mac Davis (Wednesday 21 January 1942 – Tuesday 29 September 2020)
Personnel involved in the recording of Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991) included the following:
Sam Bacco (percussion)
Lea Jane Berinati, Richard Dennison, Joy Gardner, Vicki Hampton, The Kid Connection, Louis Dean Nunley (The Jordanaires) (Thursday 15 October 1931 – Friday 26 October 2012), Jennifer O’Brien, John Wesley Ryles, Lisa Silver, Howard Smith, Dennis Wilson and Curtis Young (backing vocals)
Ray Bunch (string arrangements)
‘Romantic’ Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
Mark Casstevens (acoustic guitar, mandolin)
Paddy Corcoran (uilleann pipes)
Michael Davis (organ)
Glen Duncan and Mark O’Connor (fiddle)
Paul Franklin (Dobro, steel pan)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss, Patty Loveless and Harry Stinson (vocal harmony)
Carl Jackson (acoustic guitar, vocal harmony)
Jimmy Mattingly (fiddle, mandolin)
Joey Miskulin (accordion)
Dolly Parton (vocals, executive producer)
Gary W. Smith (piano, keyboards, producer)
Steve Turner (drums)
Paul Uhrig (bass)
Alisa Jones Wall (dulcimer)
Bruce Watkins (acoustic guitar)
Kent Wells (electric guitar)
Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991) reached No.1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1991, and was Dolly Parton’s first solo album to do so in a decade; the album also reached No.24 on the Billboard pop music albums chart in 1991.
On Tuesday 21 May 1991, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Backroads’ (Columbia Records, 1991), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included five tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart:
‘Rockin’ Years’, which was written by Floyd Estel Parton (Saturday 1 June 1957 – Thursday 6 December 2018) (No.1 for one week in April / May 1991) / this track, which was a duet with Dolly Parton, was also included on Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991)
‘I am A Simple Man’ (written by Walt Aldridge) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1991)
‘Keep It Between The Lines’, which was written by Russell Smith (Friday 17 June 1949 – Friday 12 July 2019) and Kathy Louvin (No.1 for one week in October 1991)
‘After The Lights Go Out’, which was written by Warner Hensley McPherson Jr. (Warner Mack) (Friday 5 April 1935 – Tuesday 1 March 2022) (No.13, 1991)
‘Backroads’ (written by Charlie Major) (No.2, 1992)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Backroads’ (Columbia Records, 1991) also included the following tracks:
‘Oh, Heart of Mine’ (written by Allen Shamblin and Bernie Nelson)
‘Some Things Are Better Left Alone’ (written by Roger Murrah and Larry Shell)
‘Call Me Up’ (written by Josh Leo and Harry Stinson)
‘If You’re Ever In My Arms’ (written by Bobby Braddock)
‘Who’ll Turn Out The Lights’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015) and Mack Vickery (Wednesday 8 June 1938 – Tuesday 21 December 2004)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Backroads’ (Columbia Records, 1991) reached No.3 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1991 and was certified ‘Platinum’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Friday 6 December 1991.
On Tuesday 28 April 1992, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Don’t Overlook Salvation’ (Columbia Records, 1992), an album of gospel music, which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and from which no singles were released.
Despite its lack of singles, Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Don’t Overlook Salvation’ (Columbia Records, 1992) was certified ‘Gold’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
On the inside of the cover is a painting of Jesus rescuing a lamb, which was painted by Ricky Van Shelton.
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Don’t Overlook Salvation’ (Columbia Records, 1992) included the following tracks:
‘Don’t Overlook Salvation’ (written by John Bava)
‘To My Mansion In The Sky’, which was written by Jimmie Davis (11 September 1899 – Sunday 5 November 2000)
‘Family Bible’ (written by Walt Breeland, Paul Buskirk and Claude Gray)
‘Holy (I Bowed on My Knees & Cried Holy)’, which was written by Jimmie Davis (11 September 1899 – Sunday 5 November 2000)
‘Suppertime’ (written by Ira Stanphill)
‘I Shall Not Be Moved’ (arranged by Ricky Van Shelton)
‘Mansion Over The Hilltop’ (written by Ira Stanphill)
‘The Old Rugged Cross’ (traditional)
‘I Would Take Nothing For My Journey Now’, which was written by Jimmie Davis (11 September 1899 – Sunday 5 November 2000) and Charles Goodman
‘I Saw A Man’ (written by Arthur ‘Guitar Boogie’ Smith)
‘Just As I Am / He Smiled As He Ran Out To Play’ (arranged by Ricky Van Shelton)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Don’t Overlook Salvation’ (Columbia Records, 1992) included the following:
Eddie Bayers (percussion)
Mark Casstevens (acoustic guitar, banjo)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
Rob Hajacos (fiddle)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (upright bass)
Randy McCormick (piano, organ)
Farrell Morris (percussion)
Mark O’Connor (fiddle, mandolin)
Tom Robb (bass guitar)
The Cumberland Boys (background vocals)
Vicki Hampton and Donna McElroy (additional background vocals on ‘The Old Rugged Cross’)
Kristin Wilkinson (viola, strings arrangements)
Grace Mihi Bahng (cello)
David Davidson and Christian Teal (violin)
On Tuesday 11 August 1992, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Greatest Hits Plus’ (Columbia Records, 1992), which was produced by Steve Buckingham, and included the hit singles from Ricky’s first four studio albums, along with three new tracks:
‘Just As I Am’ (written by Larry Boone and Paul Nelson) (No.23, 1993) / this track was previously unreleased
‘Wild Man’ (written by Rick Giles and Susan Longacre) (No.5, 1993 / this track was previously unreleased
‘Somebody Lied’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Larry Jenkins (No.1 for one week in December 1987)
‘I’ve Cried My Last Tear For You’ (written by Tony King and Chris Waters) (No.1 for one week in June 1990)
‘I’ll Leave This World Loving You’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015) (No.1 for two weeks in November / December 1988)
‘Statue of A Fool’, which was written by Jan Crutchfield (Saturday 26 February 1938 – Thursday 1 November 2012) (No.2, 1989)
‘I Am A Simple Man’ (written by Walt Aldridge) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1991)
‘Life Turned Her That Way’, which was written by Harlan Howard (Thursday 8 September 1927 – Sunday 3 March 2002) (No.1 for one week in March 1988)
‘Keep It Between The Lines’, which was written by Russell Smith (Friday 17 June 1949 – Friday 12 July 2019) and Kathy Louvin (No.1 for one week in October 1991)
‘Rockin’ Years’, which was written by Floyd Estel Parton (Saturday 1 June 1957 – Thursday 6 December 2018) (No.1 for one week in April / May 1991) / this track, which was a duet with Dolly Parton, was also included on Dolly Parton’s ‘Eagle When She Flies’ (Columbia Records, 1991)
‘From A Jack To A King’, which was written by Ned Miller (Sunday 12 April 1925 – Friday 18 March 2016) (No.1 for one week in March 1989)
‘Living Proof’, which was written by Johnny MacRae (1929 – Wednesday 3 July 2013) and Steve Clark (No.1 for one week in October 1989)
‘Don’t We All Have The Right’, which was written by Roger Miller (Thursday 2 January 1936 – Sunday 25 October 1992) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1988)
‘Wear My Ring Around Your Neck’ (written by Bert Carroll and Moody Russell) (No.26, 1992) / this track was also included on the ‘Honeymoon in Vegas’ movie soundtrack / this track was previously unreleased
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Greatest Hits Plus’ (Columbia Records, 1992) reached No.9 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1992.
Ricky Van Shelton was also a children’s author, and saw the publication of ‘Tales From A Duck Named Quacker: The Story Begins’ (RVS Books, 1992) in September 1992, ‘Quacker Meets Mrs. Moo: Takes From A Duck Named Quacker’ (RVS Books, 1993) in September 1993, and ‘Quacker Meets Canadian Goose: Tales From A Duck Named Quacker’ (RVS Books, 1994) in September 1994; all books were illustrated by Shan Williams Burklow.
On Tuesday 24 August 1993, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘A Bridge I Didn’t Burn’ (Columbia Records, 1993), which was produced by Steve Buckingham and Ricky Van Shelton, and included two tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart:
‘A Couple of Good Years Left’ (written by Gary Burr) (No.44, 1993)
‘Where Was I’ (written by Harry Stinson) (No.20, 1994)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘A Bridge I Didn’t Burn’ (Columbia Records, 1993) also included the following tracks:
‘If They Turn Off Our Lights’ (written by Bobby Braddock)
‘A Bridge I Didn’t Burn’, which was written by Tracy Byrd, Frank Dycus (Tuesday 5 December 1939 – Friday 23 November 2012) and Billy Yates
‘My First Reaction’ (written by Sonny Throckmorton)
‘I Know The Way By Broken Heart’, which was written by Ronnie Samoset (1947 – Sunday 29 July 2018) and Craig Wiseman
‘Talking To God’ (written by Lewis Anderson and Layng Martine Jr.)
‘Heartache As Big As Texas’, which was written by David Lewis and Royce D. Porter (Saturday 1 April 1939 – Thursday 31 May 2018)
‘If It Weren’t For Me’ (written by Roger Brown and David Stephenson)
‘Linda Lu’ (written by Ray Sharpe)
‘Roses After The Rain’ (written by Billy Burnette and Brian Tabor)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘A Bridge I Didn’t Burn’ (Columbia Records, 1993) included the following:
Tommy Wells and Eddie Bayers (drums)
Tom Robb (bass)
Roy Huskey Jr. (Monday 17 December 1956 – Saturday 6 September 1997) (double bass)
Steve Gibson (guitar, mandolin)
Brent Mason (guitar)
Bill Lloyd and Gary Nicholson (electric guitar)
Don Potter and Mark Casstevens (acoustic guitar)
Barry Beckett and Randy McCormick (piano)
Paul Franklin (steel guitar, Pedabro)
Sonny Garrish (steel guitar)
Rob Hajacos and Mark O’Connor (fiddle)
Jerry Douglas (Dobro)
Jim Horn (saxophone)
Terry McMillan (Monday 12 October 1953 – Friday 2 February 2007) (harmonica)
John Wesley Ryles, Dennis Wilson, Gary Burr, Harry Stinson and Billy Yates (background vocals)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘A Bridge I Didn’t Burn’ (Columbia Records, 1993) reached No.17 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1994.
It was also on Tuesday 24 August 1993 when The Winans saw the release of ‘All Out’ (Qwest Records / Warner Bros. Records, 1993); one of the included tracks was ‘If He Doesn’t Come Tonight’ (written by Marvin L. Winans), which featured guest vocals from Ricky Van Shelton.
On Tuesday 1 November 1994, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994), which was the first album of his career not to be produced by Steve Buckingham.
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994), which was produced by Blake Chancey and Paul Worley, included two tracks, which were hit singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart:
‘Wherever She Is’, which was written by James House and John Jarrard (Thursday 7 May 1953 – Thursday 1 February 2001) (No.49, 1994)
‘Lola’s Love’, which was written by Dennis Linde (Thursday 18 March 1943 – Friday 22 December 2006) (No.62, 1995)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994) also included the following tracks:
‘Complicated’ (written by Bill LaBounty and Pat McLaughlin)
‘I Thought I’d Heard It All’, which was written by Deryl Dodd, Philip Douglas and Don Pfrimmer (Thursday 9 September 1937 – Monday 7 December 2015)
‘Then For Them’ (written by Larry Boone and Will Robinson)
‘Baby, Take A Picture’, which was written by Carol Chase, Kathy Louvin and Russell Smith (Friday 17 June 1949 – Friday 12 July 2019)
‘Love Without You’, which was written by Jeff Pearson and Charles William Quillen (Monday 21 March 1938 – Friday 19 August 2022)
‘Been There, Done That’, which was written by John Jarrard (Thursday 7 May 1953 – Thursday 1 February 2001) and Craig Wiseman
‘Love & Honor’, which was written by Merle Haggard (Tuesday 6 April 1937 – Wednesday 6 April 2016)
‘Where The Tall Grass Grows’ (written by Randy Boudreaux, Kerry Kurt Phillips and Andy Spooner)
‘Thanks A Lot’, which was written by Edward Monroe ‘Eddie’ Miller (Wednesday 10 December 1919 – Monday 11 April 1977) and Don Sessions
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994) included the following:
Tigar Bell (passed away in September 2022), Rob Hajacos and Hank Singer (fiddle)
Darin Favorite (electric guitar)
Paul Franklin (steel guitar, Dobro)
Sonny Garrish and Tommy Spurlock (steel guitar)
Kenny Greenberg (acoustic guitar, electric guitar)
Owen Hale, George Honea and Paul Leim (drums)
Tommy Hannum (steel guitar, acoustic guitar)
Bruce Harrison (keyboards)
Dennis Linde (Thursday 18 March 1943 – Friday 22 December 2006) (acoustic guitar, special effects, clavinet)
Charlie McCoy (harmonica)
Terry McMillan (Monday 12 October 1953 – Friday 2 February 2007) (percussion)
Larry Marrs and Rocky Thacker (bass)
Steve Nathan and Gary Smith (piano)
Ricky Van Shelton (lead vocals)
Biff Watson and Paul Worley (acoustic guitar)
John Willis (electric guitar, mandolin)
Larry Marrs, Russell Terrell, Harry Stinson, Tony King, Tom Flora and Bergen White (background vocals)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994), which was his final album release on Columbia Records, reached No.62 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 1994.
Following the release of ‘Love & Honor’ (Columbia Records, 1994), Ricky Van Shelton decided to leave Columbia Records.
On Tuesday 2 May 1995, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Super Hits’ (Columbia Records, 1995), a budget music compilation, which was released by Columbia Records after Ricky Van Shelton had left the label. Sony Records re-released the compilation album, also in 1995, under their budget label with a different cover.
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Super Hits’ (Columbia Records, 1995) included many of his hit singles, as well as album tracks, including the following:
‘Statue of A Fool’, which was written by Jan Crutchfield (Saturday 26 February 1938 – Thursday 1 November 2012) (No.2, 1989)
‘I’ve Cried My Last Tear For You’ (written by Tony King and Chris Waters) (No.1 for one week in June 1990)
‘I’ll Leave This World Loving You’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015) (No.1 for two weeks in November / December 1988)
‘Life Turned Her That Way’, which was written by Harlan Howard (Thursday 8 September 1927 – Sunday 3 March 2002) (No.1 for one week in March 1988)
‘Don’t We All Have The Right’, which was written by Roger Miller (Thursday 2 January 1936 – Sunday 25 October 1992) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1988)
‘Crime of Passion’ (written by Walt Aldridge and Mac McAnally) (No.7, 1987)
‘Keep It Between The Lines’, which was written by Russell Smith (Friday 17 June 1949 – Friday 12 July 2019) and Kathy Louvin (No.1 for one week in October 1991)
‘I Am A Simple Man’ (written by Walt Aldridge) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1991)
‘Somebody Lied’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Larry Jenkins (No.1 for one week in December 1987)
‘From A Jack To A King’, which was written by Ned Miller (Sunday 12 April 1925 – Friday 18 March 2016) (No.1 for one week in March 1989)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Super Hits’ (Columbia Records, 1995) reached No.64 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in June 1995, and was certified ‘Gold’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales of 500,000 copies.
On Tuesday 27 August 1996, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Super Hits, Volume 2’ (Sony BMG, 1996), which included the following tracks:
‘Wild Man’ (written by Rick Giles and Susan Longacre) (No.5, 1993)
‘Life’s Little Ups & Downs’, which was written by Margaret Ann Rich (1934 – Thursday 22 July 2010) (No.4, 1990)
‘Hole In My Pocket’, which was written by Boudleaux Bryant (Friday 13 February 1920 – Thursday 25 June 1987) and Felice Bryant (Friday 7 August 1925 – Tuesday 22 April 2003) (No.3, 1989)
‘After The Lights Go Out’, which was written by Warner Hensley McPherson Jr. (Warner Mack) (Friday 5 April 1935 – Tuesday 1 March 2022) (No.13, 1991)
‘Backroads’ (written by Charlie Major) (No.2, 1992)
‘I Meant Every Word He Said’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022), Bucky Jones and Curly Putman (Thursday 20 November 1930 – Sunday 30 October 2016) (No.2, 1990)
‘Wild-Eyed Dream’ (written by Alan Rhody) (No.24, 1986)
‘Living Proof’, which was written by Johnny MacRae (1929 – Wednesday 3 July 2013) and Steve Clark (No.1 for one week in October 1989)
‘Wear My Ring Around Your Neck’ (written by Bert Carroll and Moody Russell) (No.26, 1992)
‘Oh, Pretty Woman’, which was written by William Dees and Roy Orbison (Thursday 23 April 1936 – Tuesday 6 December 1988) / this track was an album track from ‘Ricky Van Shelton III’ (Columbia Records, 1990)
In 1997, Ricky Van Shelton created his own record label, RVS Records.
On Tuesday 27 October 1998, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Making Plans’ (Vanguard Records, 1998), which was produced by Steve Buckingham; the album, which was released exclusively through Wal Mart, was unable to chart and no singles were released from it.
‘Making Plans’ (Vanguard Records, 1998) was financed by Ricky Van Shelton, and was his only release under the Vanguard Records label, and included the following tracks:
‘Just Say Goodbye’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Byron Hill
‘When The Feeling Goes Away’, which was written by Merle Haggard (Tuesday 6 April 1937 – Wednesday 6 April 2016)
‘She Needs Me’ (written by Chuck Cannon and Jimmy Stewart)
‘Borrowed Angel’, which was written by Mel Street (Saturday 21 October 1933 – Saturday 21 October 1978)
‘I Wish You Were More Like Your Memory’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022)
‘Tic Toc’ (written by Brett Beavers and Troy Johnson)
‘It Wouldn’t Kill Me’ (written by Larry Boone, Paul Nelson and Tom Shapiro)
‘Making Plans’, which was written by Voni Morrison and Johnny Russell (Tuesday 23 January 1940 – Tuesday 3 July 2001)
‘He’s Not The Man I Used To Be’ (written by Gary Duffey and Micki Foster)
‘Our Love’ (written by Deana Cox, Mike Geiger and Woody Mullis)
‘The Best Thing Goin’ (written by Mike Geiger, Michael Huffman and Woody Mullis)
‘The Best Is Yet To Come’, which was written by Colleen Peterson (Tuesday 14 November 1950 – Wednesday 9 October 1996), Cyril Lawson and Nancy Simmonds
On Tuesday 2 February 1999, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ’16 Biggest Hits’ (Columbia Records, 1999), which included the following tracks:
‘Somebody Lied’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Larry Jenkins (No.1 for one week in December 1987)
‘Life Turned Her That Way’, which was written by Harlan Howard (Thursday 8 September 1927 – Sunday 3 March 2002) (No.1 for one week in March 1988)
‘Don’t We All Have The Right’, which was written by Roger Miller (Thursday 2 January 1936 – Sunday 25 October 1992) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1988)
‘I’ll Leave This World Loving You’, which was written by Wayne Kemp (Sunday 1 June 1941 – Monday 9 March 2015) (No.1 for two weeks in November / December 1988)
‘From A Jack To A King’, which was written by Ned Miller (Sunday 12 April 1925 – Friday 18 March 2016) (No.1 for one week in March 1989)
‘Living Proof’, which was written by Johnny MacRae (1929 – Wednesday 3 July 2013) and Steve Clark (No.1 for one week in October 1989)
‘I’ve Cried My Last Tear For You’ (written by Tony King and Chris Waters) (No.1 for one week in June 1990)
‘I Am A Simple Man’ (written by Walt Aldridge) (No.1 for one week in July / August 1991)
‘Keep It Between The Lines’, which was written by Russell Smith (Friday 17 June 1949 – Friday 12 July 2019) and Kathy Louvin (No.1 for one week in October 1991)
‘Statue of A Fool’, which was written by Jan Crutchfield (Saturday 26 February 1938 – Thursday 1 November 2012) (No.2, 1989)
‘I Meant Every Word He Said’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022), Bucky Jones and Curly Putman (Thursday 20 November 1930 – Sunday 30 October 2016) (No.2, 1990)
‘Backroads’ (written by Charlie Major) (No.2, 1992)
‘Hole In My Pocket’, which was written by Boudleaux Bryant (Friday 13 February 1920 – Thursday 25 June 1987) and Felice Bryant (Friday 7 August 1925 – Tuesday 22 April 2003) (No.3, 1989)
‘Life’s Little Ups & Downs’, which was written by Margaret Ann Rich (1934 – Thursday 22 July 2010) (No.4, 1990)
‘Crime of Passion’ (written by Walt Aldridge and Mac McAnally) (No.7, 1987)
‘Wild Man’ (written by Rick Giles and Susan Longacre) (No.5, 1993)
On Tuesday 24 March 2009, Ricky Van Shelton’s ’16 Biggest Hits’ (Columbia Records, 1999) was re-released.
While Columbia Records continued to release ‘Greatest Hits’ collections to the public, Ricky Van Shelton continued to work on other projects, and continued to perform.
In 2000, Ricky Van Shelton signed with Audium Records, and saw the release, on Tuesday 23 May 2000, of ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ (Audium Records, 2000), which included two tracks, which were released as singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart:
‘The Decision’ (written by Jerry Thompson and Ricky Van Shelton) (No.71, 2000)
‘Call Me Crazy’ (written by Brett Jones and Wendell Mobley) / this track was released as a single in 2000, but it failed to chart
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ (Audium Records, 2000) also included the following tracks:
‘Foolish Pride’ (written by Ernie Rowell and Mel Tillis Jr.)
‘I’m The One’ (written by Terry McBride and Gary Nicholson)
‘Somebody’s Gonna Lose’, which was written by Larry Butler (Thursday 26 March 1942 – Friday 20 January 2012) and Mark Sherrill
‘I Think I Like It Here’ (written by Tom Shapiro, Chris Waters and Jimmy Yeary)
‘You Go Your Way (& I’ll Go Crazy)’, which was written by Joe Chambers (passed away on Wednesday 28 September 2022) and Bucky Jones
‘Who’s Laughin’ Now’ (written by Tom Littlefield, Rick Rowell and Mel Tillis Jr.)
‘All I Have To Offer You Is Me’, which was written by Dallas Frazier (Friday 27 October 1939 – Friday 14 January 2022) and Arthur Leo ‘Doodle’ Owens (Friday 28 November 1930 – Monday 4 October 1999)
‘From The Fryin’ Pan’ (written by Monty Criswell and Sam Gay)
‘I Was Losing You’, which was written by Bruce Burch (Friday 30 January 1953 – Saturday 12 March 2022)
‘Your One & Only’ (written by Hillary Kanter and Even Stevens)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ (Audium Records, 2000) included the following:
Pat Coil (keyboards)
Larry Franklin (fiddle, mandolin, acoustic guitar)
Shannon Forrest (drums)
Steve Gibson (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, background vocals)
Wes Hightower, Liana Manis and John Wesley Ryles (background vocals)
John A. Hobbs (Saturday 11 February 1928 – Wednesday 12 June 2019) (piano, keyboards)
B. James Lowry (acoustic guitar)
Brent Mason (electric guitar)
Terry McMillan (Monday 12 October 1953 – Friday 2 February 2007) (harmonica)
Larry Paxton (bass guitar)
All tracks on Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ (Audium Records, 2000) were produced by Steve Gibson, with the exception of ‘The Decision’, which was produced by Steve Gibson and Ricky Van Shelton.
On Tuesday 10 October 2000, Ricky Van Shelton saw the release of ‘Blue Christmas’ (Audium Records, 2000), his second album of Christmas music, which included the following tracks:
‘Blue Christmas’ (written by Bill Hayes and Jay Johnson)
‘Silver Bells’, which was written by Raymond Bernard Evans (Thursday 4 February 1915 – Thursday 15 February 2007) and Jay Livingston (Sunday 28 March 1915 – Wednesday 17 October 2001)
‘Winter Wonderland’ (written by Felix Bernard and Dick Smith)
‘Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!’ (written by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne)
‘Country Christmas’ (written by Don Schlitz and Ricky Van Shelton)
‘Jingle Bell Rock’ (written by Joe Beal and Jim Boothe)
‘Silent Night’, which was written by Franz Xaver Gruber (25 November 1787 – 7 June 1863) and Joseph Mohr (11 December 1792 – 4 December 1848)
‘I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day’ (traditional)
‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’ (written by Frederick Oakeley and John Francis Wade)
‘Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas’ (written by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin)
Personnel involved in the recording of Ricky Van Shelton’s second album of Christmas music, ‘Blue Christmas’ (Audium Records, 2000), included the following:
Eddie Bayers (drums, percussion)
Pat Coil (keyboards, synthesizer)
Larry Franklin (fiddle)
Sonny Garrish (steel guitar)
Wes Hightower, Liana Manis and John Wesley Ryles (background vocals)
John A. Hobbs (Saturday 11 February 1928 – Wednesday 12 June 2019) (keyboards, piano)
Jim Hoke (saxophone)
Terry McMillan (Monday 12 October 1953 – Friday 2 February 2007) (harmonica)
Brent Mason (electric guitar)
Larry Paxton (bass guitar)
Ricky Van Shelton (lead vocals)
Biff Watson (acoustic guitar)
Ricky Van Shelton’s ‘Blue Christmas’ (Audium Records, 2000), his second album of Christmas music, reached No.58 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in 2000, and No.46 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums Chart in 2000.
On Monday 1 May 2006, Ricky Van Shelton announced that he would be retiring from touring to spend more time with his family; this official statement was issued via Ricky Van Shelton’s official website:
‘Dear Friends,
I need to share with you a very difficult decision that I have reached this week.
I have asked to be released from the performance obligations that have been made for the rest of this year.
I understand and appreciate the deep devotion that many of you have shown to me during the past 19 years of my musical career.
I have not made this decision lightly, and I deeply regret any inconvenience that this may cause to those of you who have already made plans to attend some of these performances.
There are several reasons for this decision, some of them very personal. But I want to assure each of you that Bettye and I are in good health and still love music and everything it stands for. Music will always be a part of my life.
But we have decided that, at this time, we need to be close to our families. As many of you know, most of our family is in Virginia. We’ve been away from what we have always called home for the past twenty years. During that time, we have lost my father and Bettye’s mother. We weren’t there for them, and we have always regretted not spending more time with them. We believe that we need to be in Virginia at this time. We want to be more involved with our immediate families and be available to them and their needs. I trust that most of you will understand.
Maybe now I can finish that CD of original songs that you have been so patient about. And perhaps, there will be other musical projects that I can pursue without being away from home for long periods of time.
We have made a lot of dear friends over the past years. We will always be grateful for the support, encouragement and prayers that you have shared with us.
I hope that we can also count on your good wishes for us as we begin this new phase of our life.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Ricky Van Shelton’
Tuesday 21 February 2017
Today, Bettye Shelton asked that I (Sean Brady), as a personal favour to Ricky Van Shelton and her, add the following to this special page celebrating Ricky Van Shelton’s country music career:
‘After remaining off the radar for the past ten years, Ricky Van Shelton granted his first and only (as of this date) interview, on Friday 6 June 2016, to freelance journalist, Pam Blevins.
Pam Blevins is a long-time fan of Ricky Van Shelton with incredible gifts. She types most of her articles with her nose, as a result of being born with cerebral palsy and having poor hand coordination.
Ricky Van Shelton recognized this journalist as an amazing person who has overcome enormous disadvantages; and who has accepted with great dignity those conditions that she can not overcome.
The interview was printed in an article which Pam Blevins wrote for ‘The Jefferson Post’, a North Carolina newspaper, on Friday 9 December 2016.
Regards,
Bettye & Ricky’
As a personal favour to both Ricky Van Shelton & Bettye Shelton, Sean Brady was delighted to have the opportunity to add this piece at the end of the history on Ricky Van Shelton’s country music career.
It was so gracious of Ricky Van Shelton to give this interview to Pam Blevins and it was wonderful that he allowed Sean Brady to add it to the end of his dedicated page within Gene Watson’s Fan Site.
• Ricky Van Shelton