“When I heard the playback of what would become the lead single and title song for my CD, 'True Believers,' I thought, 'Wow, I've never done anything like that before!'" 'True Believers,' was the first song recorded for Rucker's third and most ambitious country studio album. And like his previous two albums, which topped the Billboard Country Album chart and produced five Number One singles, 'True Believers’ also debuted at No. 1.
Rucker, who first attained multi-platinum status as the lead singer and rhythm guitarist of Hootie & the Blowfish, wrote ten of the twelve tracks on 'True Believers' and expresses a special pride in the raw and realistic sentiments of his songs. The singer is also quick to give credit to Frank Rogers, who served as producer for Darius, along with co-writing three songs. "Frank's the guy," says Rucker.
Since re-introducing himself to the world as a country artist, Rucker has had a truly remarkable few years. In 2008, he released ‘Learn to Live’ — the album's first single, "Don't Think I Don't Think About It," made him the first African American with a Number One country song since Charley Pride in 1983. It was followed by two more singles that topped the chart and earned him the New Artist award from the Country Music Association. His 2010 follow-up ‘Charleston, SC 1966’ included two more Number Ones.
In October 2012, Rucker realized a childhood dream when he was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. Asked if he could believe the unprecedented success of his second career, Rucker just laughs and says, "From where I was five years ago to the Grand Ole Opry, ‘who would believe that?"
