The historic project will include covers of mega country ballads & features several guest artists
Legendary artist Bill Medley, best known as one-half of Grammy-winning duo The Righteous Brothers, has announced his first new album in over a decade titled Straight From The Heart, to be released February 14th. Produced by Fred Mollin, the 12-track collection will feature Medley’s unmistakable baritone voice in a new light as he covers mega country music ballads alongside some of the industry’s biggest stars including Vince Gill, Michael McDonald, Keb’ Mo’ and Shawn Colvin.
To help celebrate the historic album announcement, Medley released the second single from the album, “(Since You’ve) Gone” featuring Keb’ Mo’, delivering a doleful version of the hit full of remorse and regret. Mo’ joins Medley on his rendition of the 1950’s classic, which was originally recorded by rising country singer Ferlin Husky, and eventually went on to become a ten-week chart-topper and Husky’s second career No. 1. This release follows the first reveal off the album, “These Days” featuring Vince Gill, which offered a taste of Medley’s country roots.
“I’ve always had a deep love and appreciation for country music and at its core, a pure country ballad is the blues,” Medley shares. “Straight From The Heart allowed me to pay tribute to the incredible country singers and writers that I admire, and at the same time, honor who I am in my soul. Working alongside artists like Vince Gill, Keb’ Mo’, Michael McDonald, and Shawn Colvin on this album was truly magical.”
Following a trip to Nashville with Kenny Rogers in 1978, Medley began a lifetime of relationships and experiences with the country community, including earning an ACM Nomination for Top New Male Vocalist of the Year in 1985 after nearly 25 years in the music business. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer went on to open for Loretta Lynn, toured with Alabama, and spent time with iconic artists like Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, and Kris Kristofferson, among many others.
Currently, Medley and his new partner Bucky Heard are performing a residency at the South Point Casino, Las Vegas, NV, taking fans on a nostalgic journey through the catalog of one of the greatest duos of all time.
- Crying Time featuring Michael McDonald
- The Dance
- Please Help I’m Falling
- Sunday Morning Coming Down
- (Since You’ve) Gone featuring Keb’ Mo’
- Lay Down Beside Me
- I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry featuring Shawn Colvin
- Whenever You Come Around
- He Stopped Loving Her Today
- Sweet Music Man
- These Days featuring Vince Gill
- Let It Be Me
