Biography

About Croweology

Crowe-ol-o-gy: The study of J.D. Crowe's musical legacy. This project was started as a lifelong dream of mine was ending. From the age of twelve, it was always my dream to play the music of J.D. Crowe and New South. In 1998 this dream became a reality and my journey began as lead singer and guitarist for the New South. Nearly 15 years passed in a blink of an eye. I never took one show for granted, and I knew at some point this dream would come to an end. I started this project as a tribute to J.D. and to document the years spent by so many artists that played in the New South by recreating songs from throughout his musical career.

I'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to be joined by the artists on this recording to study parts of J.D. Crowe's musical legacy. Thanks to Ron Stewart for sharing all of his talents including his banjo and fiddle playing as well as helping engineer this project. Many thanks also go to Harold Nixon for his solid bass playing throughout the recording. I enjoyed my time working with these fellow former members of the New South. Finally, thanks to Adam Steffey for bringing his mandolin style to the New South’s music.

When it came time to fill the shoes of singers for the album, I wanted to get some guys that were a member of the New South before or would have been a great addition to the New South but just never had the chance because of other opportunities they pursued. They were all ready and willing to sing these New South songs and I am honored to have their help and support. There is no better than Dan Tyminski for the high lead and tenor voice. He told me that this is what he cut his teeth on and his favorite music and it shows in his performance. A new, old singer at the age of 24, Mo Pitney sings lead with a voice well beyond his age. Mo gave powerful vocals on three classic New South songs on this project and played the guitar on those tracks. Helping with an unlimited amount of talent on the tenor vocals is former New South member Don Rigsby. Last, but surly not least, Steve Gulley blessed us with his tenor voice on “Cryin’ Holy Unto the Lord”.

It was a true blessing and great experience to be joined by all these talented musicians and vocalists on this project. I personally had a great time getting to study J.D. Crowe’s musical legacy by singing and playing these songs.

To all of the above, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me make this CD come to life and for helping me close this dream chapter of my life with so much class in your performance.


Rickey Wasson