A Christmas 'Diamond'

This year I am getting into the Christmas spirit more than I normally do during this time of the year. When I was younger I was really into the holiday as all kids are. As I have grown older, Christmas has become more and more just like any other day. This year though, that is not the case and I have Diamond Rio to thank for that.

The guys recently released their first-ever Christmas album, "The Star Still Shines: A Diamond Rio Christmas," on Word Records, their new record label. The guys have wanted to do a Christmas CD for more than 15 years and have finally gotten that opportunity.

I got my copy and it is great, but then again, I am pretty partial to them. The songs have really gotten me into the spirit this year.

For those that are interested, you can go to either diamondrio.com or rhapsody.com to take a listen. If you decide to take a listen, please drop me a comment and let me know what you think of it.

I recently found out that the guys of Diamond Rio will be featured on XM Radio this Christmas Eve. They were in Washington, DC this past month to record a special Christmas show for XM's Artist Confidential series. According to the official XM web site:

"Diamond Rio celebrates the Holidays with a special Christmas edition of Artist
Confidential. Flying in from Nashville, the boys deliver a holiday twist to
their brand of country music that raises the roof of the XM Performance Theater.
Hosted by XM's Jon Anthony, join us for a down-home musical celebration of the
season."

For those interested in listening to the show, it airs all day long on XMX, XM Ch. 2.

I am really looking forward to this show, although, I would have rather it had been about their entire career and not focus on the Christmas project. I do think that it will be great show and they are getting some more exposure. I
really don't think that Diamond Rio gets enough airplay and exposure on radio these days. Its a real shame that an outstanding act like Diamond Rio is be slighted now. I guess that is just part of the business and all.

I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and hope that you enjoy the time with family and friends.

'Till next time.

Jason