New Single
‘Front Porch of Paradise’
Billy Blue Records debuts a new single today from Kristy Cox, written by Marcy Each, Susan Anderegg, and Jerry Salley, about the joys of a rural lifestyle.
Titled Front Porch of Paradise, producer and co-writer Salley said that the theme grabbed him right away when he got involved in the session.
“Growing up in the country, I guess I always took for granted how blessed I was – until I moved away from home. The lush green fields, the beautiful rows of silver queen corn, half-runner green beans and big boy tomatoes we grew were all just natural to me and my family. We called it ‘God’s Country.’ A few years ago, while I was in Iowa teaching a songwriting workshop at the Strawberry Jam Camp in Strawberry Point, Iowa, one of our attendees, Marcy Each, had a great idea for a song that she called Front Porch of Paradise. She had started the song with another attendee there, Susan Anderegg, as they were paired up to co-write together at the workshop.
When they told me the title, I knew exactly where they were coming from, and I grabbed my guitar, as they were struggling a little on a melody. We worked on it together until we loved it. Luckily, when I pitched the song to Kristy for her most recent album, it also reminded her of her childhood growing up just outside of her hometown of Adelaide, South Australia.
I’m so happy she loved it, because she sings the song with such beautiful conviction and has made it her own.”
Cox agreed, saying that it pegged her own memories instantly.
“I loved Front Porch of Paradise the first time I heard it. I grew up on the outskirts of Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, and have always felt more at home in the country. This song is one of those that I feel I could have written about myself, it was so easy for me to relate to it. I love the melody and the lyrics, and am so thankful that Jerry and team let me record their song.”
Helping out in the studio were Jason Roller on guitar and fiddle, Aaron McDaris on banjo, Justin Moses on mandolin and reso-guitar, and Jeff Partin on bass.
It’s definitely a feel good number, which you can enjoy in the music video below.
NASHVILLE, Tenn (May 31, 2024) – Acclaimed bluegrass artist Kristy Cox releases her brand new album from Billy Blue Records, Let it Burn, today. Setting the music world ablaze with her 8th album release, Kristy’s distinctive blend of bluegrass meets country meets americana sounds has produced a fiery addition to her impressive discography. Listen to Let it Burn HERE.
Let it Burn features a collection of 11 powerful tracks, each one delivering a burst of raw emotion and energy. The title track “Let it Burn,” set the tone with its release earlier this year showcasing evocative lyrics around the themes of personal change and renewal. The album’s highlights include “In My Dreams,”a haunting duet featuring John Meador of Authentic Unlimited, and “How Lucky Am I,” with the legendary Jimmy Fortune. “Steady As The Rain,”written by Dolly Parton, perfectly complements Cox’s soulful voice making Let It Burn, a must-listen for fans and peers alike.
“I am so excited about this new release,” said Cox. “I’m incredibly proud of the songs we have put together. Jerry (Salley) and the musical team did a great job bringing everything to life.”
Jerry Salley, producer of the album and A&R/creative director of Billy BlueRecords, weighs in, “Kristy Cox is on Fire! Let It Burn, the follow-up to Kristy’s much-celebrated album, Shades Of Blue, is her absolute best yet. Kristy and I work really hard to find or write the best songs for every project we create, and we both sincerely feel this collection of 11 songs is the strongest she has ever recorded."
Salley continues, “She is easily the hardest working woman in show business, and, when you combine that hard work with great songs and her remarkable, recognizable vocal prowess, the result is nothing short of magical. I am grateful to have produced our 8th album in a row contributing to her illustrious career. Gaining more and more recognition and awards with every project, Let It Burnis burning up the charts as she continues to be one of the hottest and most popular vocalists in the bluegrass genre in America and her native Australia!”
“Crank it up,” he adds, “and prepare yourself as Kristy’s performance of these songs are smoking hot on this new album!”
Kristy Cox - Let it Burn
Kristy releases new single from forthcoming album ‘Let it Burn.’
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kristy Cox & Grasstime Join Forces with Rockwood Booking for a Bluegrass Musical Journey
Nashville TN, 09/06/2023 – Renowned Billy Blue Recording artist Kristy Cox, celebrated for her Billboard chart-topping success, has signed with Rockwood Booking, a premier talent booking agency specializing in live music performances. The collaboration promises to bring audiences an unparalleled blend of captivating vocals, multi-part harmonies, and vibrant bluegrass melodies.
Audiences can anticipate a fusion of high-energy performances and traditional bluegrass melodies that will transport them to the heart of this beloved musical genre. With their combined talents, Kristy Cox and Grasstime are set to deliver unforgettable musical experiences that will resonate with fans for years to come.
"We're thrilled to partner with Rockwood Booking," says Kristy Cox. "The opportunity to work with such esteemed professionals and to share our passion for bluegrass music is a dream come true. Together with Grasstime, we're excited to create unforgettable musical moments and connect with audiences worldwide."
For booking inquiries and further information, please contact: Brian Swenk - brian@rockwoodbooking.com
For press inquiries, please contact: KristyCoxMGMT@bigpond.com
Follow Kristy Cox on FACEBOOK and learn more about Kristy Cox and Grasstime at www.kristycox.com
About Kristy Cox: Kristy Cox is an internationally acclaimed bluegrass artist known for her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits. With a strong foundation in tradition and a contemporary edge, Kristy continues to push the boundaries of bluegrass music.
About Grasstime: Grasstime is a dynamic bluegrass ensemble renowned for their tight harmonies and vibrant melodies. With a unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, they have captured the hearts of audiences for years.
About Rockwood Booking: Rockwood Booking is a leading talent booking agency dedicated to curating exceptional live music experiences. With a diverse roster of artists, they connect performers with audiences to create unforgettable events. The company was founded by banjo player and music writer, Brian Swenk, with the goal of helping musicians in the bluegrass, Americana, and roots music scenes establish long lasting and sustainable careers. Rockwood Booking is quickly growing and has added two other booking agents, Mark Bumgarner and Richard Oakley.
While back home in Australia to be inducted into the Hands of Fame in Tamworth, NSW, Aussie songbird Kristy Cox also took home a Golden Guitar trophy at the Country Music Association of Australia awards.
This was her sixth Golden Guitar, awarded for Bluegrass Recording of the Year, for the song Good Morning Moon, written by Jerry Salley and Laura Leigh Jones. It had appeared on her Shades of Blue album in 2022.
After the awards show on Saturday, Kristy was overjoyed with the win, as she had just performed the song live on stage.
“Today has been one to remember. Getting inducted into the Hands of Fame in the morning was a dream come true. To follow it up that night with a CMAA award for Bluegrass Recording of the Year is the icing on the cake. I can’t thank everyone enough for all of their support.”
Jerry Salley, who not only co-wrote Good Morning Moon, he also produced for Billy Blue Records, for whom he serves as A&R Director, offered his congratulations from Nashville.
“Kristy is SOOOOOOO talented and the hardest working girl in show business. We are so proud of her and her well-deserved accomplishments!”
Australian bluegrass singer Kristy Cox, now living in Nashville and recording for Billy Blue Records, has been named as an inductee into the 2023 Hands of Fame class. The award was announced today at the 51st Toyota Country Music Festival in Tamworth, NSW.
Hands of Fame is not just a clever name. Artists so recognized for their career achievements place their hands in cement, and the prints are displayed in Hands of Fame Park in Tamworth, a free attraction that draws visitors year round.
“I am extremely honoured and completely blown away to be chosen as a 2023 inductee into the Australian Country Music Hands of Fame.
25 years ago, 12 year old me with big dreams pulled into Tamworth. I remember playing on the Coca Cola stage that year on Kable Ave, walking around looking at the hands of all the incredible talent that had set the stage for me to follow. Never in my life did I imagine I would be placing my hands among them.
I can’t thank everyone who has supported me over my career enough for the hard work and encouragement. Thank You!”
The imprinting ceremony was held on 1/21/23 at the Park, where Tamworth Regional Mayor Russell Webb will present the 2022 inductees with their certificates. This ceremony has taken place since 1977, with more than 300 honorees represented by their prints at the Hands of Fame Park.
Also selected for the Hands of Fame for 2023 are Kevin Bennett, Duncan Toombs, Tom Curtain, and Wanita.
Kristy signs to Billy Blue Records…
She’s known as Australia’s “Queen of Bluegrass” and she’s placing her shining crown soundly on the mantle at Nashville’s Billy Blue Records.
Kristy Cox has topped the Billboard charts and is a multiple winner of Australia’s CMAA Golden Guitar Awards. In 2014, she was named Australian Country Music Independent Artist of the Year.
She and her growing family made Nashville home just 8 years ago. Born in Adelaide, Australia, Kristy will become a US citizen in October of 2021. Her two young children have names that tip a hat to original and new hometowns; son, Ryman and daughter, Adelaide. When Kristy is not writing, recording or performing, she’s one of Nashville’s favorite barista’s, the owner of a mobile Australian coffee van.
Jerry Salley, Creative and A&R Director of Billy Blue Records, was effusive in making his announcement.
“I have known Kristy since she was a very young lady, and she is truly one of the hardest working women I have ever been associated with in the music business,” Jerry Salley says. “We will start recording our 7th bluegrass album together, and her incredible vocal talent is only matched by her ambition and drive to get things done! I am beyond excited to welcome Kristy to Billy Blue Records. She is exactly the kind of artist and person that we want to become a member of this label family.
Cox and Salley have shared a rich musical history – from years of recording together, to co-writing, to touring together in her native Australia. The two will head into the studio in June to begin that album with Salley in the producer’s seat.
“When I first visited Nashville,” Kristy says, “I met Jerry Salley, and since then, he has become not only a huge part of my career through our 6 albums together, but a huge part of my family. Jerry is my son’s godfather, and he is my ‘go-to’ person for just about everything. He’s the closest thing we have to family on this side of the big pond. It felt completely natural to me that we start working together on a label front, having worked together for over 12 years and on 6 albums, I trust him completely, and seeing the amazing work that Ed [Leonard], Jerry and the whole team are doing is inspiring.”
“I am looking forward to this next chapter and joining this amazing label family,” Kristy says
Kristy wins 2021 Bluegrass Recording of the Year Golden Guitar
Australia’s Queen of Bluegrass – Kristy Cox – added to her impressive Golden Guitar Award tally on Saturday night taking out Bluegrass Recording of the Year with her good friend and Australian music legend, Tommy Emmanuel CGP, for their track, “Finger Picking Good”. The win took Kristy’s personal tally to five Golden Guitar Awards making her one of the most decorated female Bluegrass artists in Australia.
“I am completely blown away and speechless to have received this award for the third year in a row. I love Bluegrass music, it’s where my heart is and this award means so much to me”, said Kristy.
“I can’t thank all those who voted for the track enough for their ongoing support and the industry as a whole. Recording this track with Tommy is one of the highlights of my career so far … he truly is amazing!”
Kristy celebrated under slightly unusual circumstances this year with Covid restrictions rendering it impossible for her to get home to Australia as she traditionally would.
This year, she was snuggled up under a blanket in her favourite pyjamas watching via live stream in Nashville.
“It felt very strange not to be in Australia for the Tamworth festival and the awards. This is the first festival I have missed in over 20 years. Setting my alarm for 2am and watching the awards in my PJ’s was a completely new experience but it didn’t take away from the excitement of the event though … wow, what a night!”
And it didn’t stop there, Kristy, Tommy and her band which also included producer, Jerry Salley, recorded a show stopping performance of the winning song that was played during the awards ceremony showcasing the reason why Kristy Cox is by far one of our greatest music exports. The performance was so good that CMT Australia instantly added the video across the board to full rotation - airing for the first time on Australia Day.
Kristy’s current album, “No Headlights”, featuring the Golden Guitar Award winning “Finger Picking Good” is out now via Mountain Fever Records.
New Single OUT NOW - Finger Pickin’ Good Featuring Tommy Emmanuel
As Kristy shared with The Bluegrass Situation - “Since I was a girl, I have been a huge fan of Tommy Emmanuel. When my co-writers Jerry Salley, Bill Whyte, and I were writing this song we spoke about how great it would be if we could feature Tommy on the different finger-picking tunes throughout the track, I was so incredibly excited when he said yes. I love this song; it was so much fun to write and even more fun to perform.” — Kristy Cox
Kristy Cox Scores Stunning Billboard Bluegrass Debut
Australian bluegrass star Kristy Cox has scored a stunning Billboard debut with her new album, No Headlights. Her new album has come in at #2 on this week’s Billboard Bluegrass album chart. No Headlights is Cox’s sixth album and her second release with US label, Mountain Fever Records.
Australian bluegrass star Kristy Cox has scored a stunning Billboard debut with her new album, No Headlights. Her new album has come in at #2 on this week’s Billboard Bluegrass album chart. No Headlights is Cox’s sixth album and her second release with US label, Mountain Fever Records. Produced by the legendary Jerry Salley, No Headlights features some impressive musicians and vocalists. Tommy Emmanuel provides his trademark guitar prowess on ‘Finger Picking Good’ and Donna Ulisse showcases a beautiful guest vocal on ‘The One Who Makes You Cry.’ While Tammy Rogers joins Kristy on the title track, ‘No Headlights.’ Rounding out the album are Jason Roller on guitar & fiddle, Mike Bub on bass, mandolin & resonator guitar from Justin Moses. Aaron McDaris provides banjo and Maggie Williams and Jerry Salley are on harmony vocals.
This isn’t the first time Cox has appeared on the Billboard charts. Her previous album, Ricochet, actually debuted at #1 on the same chart in 2018. She also picked up back to back Golden Guitar Awards for Best Bluegrass Release in 2019 for ‘Ricochet’ and 2020 for ‘Yesterday’s Heartache.’
Cox will play shows in Europe in May before returning to Australia to perform at the Groundwater Country Music festival, who recently won a Queensland Tourism Award, in July.
Kristy Wins 4th Golden Guitar Award
Kristy Cox continues her reign as Australia’s Queen of Bluegrass with her back to back Toyota Golden Guitar Award of Australia wins.
Cox took out the 2020 Golden Guitar for Bluegrass Recording of The Year for her single, Yesterday’s Heartache, following on from her 2019 win in the same category for her acclaimed release, Ricochet.
Kristy Cox continues her reign as Australia’s Queen of Bluegrass with her back to back Toyota Golden Guitar Award of Australia wins.
Cox took out the 2020 Golden Guitar for Bluegrass Recording of The Year for her single, Yesterday’s Heartache, following on from her 2019 win in the same category for her acclaimed release, Ricochet.
I’m still in shock and just so thankful to the industry for their ongoing support of my music. I am so excited about this great song. It’s got attitude, it’s catchy and I love performing it. I love you guys – Kristy Cox.
Back in Australia for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Kristy returns to the US tomorrow to a #5 debut on the Bluegrass Today Charts with her latest hit, No Headlights. This week in Australia – the song also moved from #39 to #17 on the Country Songs Chart and debuted at #8 on the AirIt Regional Top 10.
Written by Liz Hengber, Tammy Rogers and Jerry Salley, the single is the second lifted from her forthcoming album also titled, No Headlights, due for release at the end of February.
Australia’s Queen of Bluegrass – Kristy Cox – Releases First Taste of Her Brand New Album
Kristy Cox unleashes the first single from her anticipated follow up to her Golden Guitar winning album, “Ricochet”, on Wednesday 10th July.
Written by Jerry Salley, Kelli Kingrey and Bruce Carpenter, “Yesterday’s Heartache”, is a fun, up-tempo tune that touches on the tale of holding on.
“The first time I heard it I knew it was for me”, says Kristy.
“Jerry, Kelli and Bruce did a wonderful job writing such a catchy song. I can’t wait for you all to hear it and start performing it live”.
Based in Nashville for a number of years, Kristy has been going from strength to strength taking her music to the world. She unseated legends Dolly Parton and Rhonda Vincent from the number one position on the US Bluegrass Today Charts last year, was nominated for a swag of awards both in the US and Australia and her album, “Ricochet”, was crowded Bluegrass Release of the Year at the 2019 Golden Guitar Awards of Australia. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
Returning to Nashville in the New Year, she commenced recording her new album, gave birth to her second child, performed at the Barbecue and Bluegrass Festival at Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, toured Ireland and performed at the Aussie Showcase at Nashville’s iconic CMA Fest!
Kristy will hit the road again in mid July for the second leg of her US summer tour to preview her forthcoming album, “No Headlights”.
“Yesterday’s Heartache” is at radio now!
A Bluegrass Baby for Kristy
It all begins with an idea.
Kristy and her husband, Travis List, are celebrating the birth of their first son and has chosen a decidedly Music City name for their son.
Ryman Jeffery Travis List was born on March 6 in Nashville. Seemingly destined to be a big boy, he entered at 9 lbs, 10 ozs.
Kristy and Ryman are both doing well, and older sister Adelaide is delighted with the new addition to their family. Kristy needs to recuperate quickly, as she leaves in just over a month for a week long tour of Ireland.
Congratulations to Kristy and Travis, and a big bluegrass welcome to little Ryman!