Diamond Rio Has New Deal and Christmas CD

8/30/2007 Stephen L. Betts Diamond Rio has signed with Word Records, a Christian music label. They’re slated to release their first Christmas album, A Diamond Rio Christmas: The Star Still Shines, on Oct. 9. The album will feature classic holiday songs along with the original title track. The band was previously on Arista Nashville where they scored chart-topping singles including “Meet in the Middle” and “I Believe.” “It is a very exciting time being in Diamond Rio right now,” says guitarist Jimmy Olander. “The folks at Word share with us not only a great passion for the music, but an even greater passion for the message. This is a great fit.” Lead vocalist Marty Roe adds, “We are incredibly excited about our new partnership. It is opening up a new chapter in our careers, and we are looking forward to exploring new musical opportunities.” Diamond Rio’s original lineup – which also includes Gene Johnson (mandolin, vocals), Brian Prout (drums), Dana Williams (bass, vocals), and Dan Truman (keyboards, piano), remains intact. The group is planning a Christmas tour in conjunction with the release of the new CD.