Word Records announces the latest addition to its stellar roster of artists. One of Country music’s premiere recording groups, Diamond Rio, has signed with the label and will release their first Christmas project, October 9th, 2007.

Known for their strong harmonies and outstanding musicianship, the members of Diamond Rio have long been applauded for their choice of uplifting lyrics and positive message songs. For years they have wanted to record a Christmas project and with the recent Word label signing the timing was perfect. A Diamond Rio Christmas: The Star Still Shines will feature classic holiday songs along with the original title track.

“We are honoured to have the opportunity to work with Diamond Rio,” says Susan Riley, Senior Vice-President of A&R and Publishing for Word Label Group. “We have been fans of the group for a long time and are excited to serve them in the country realm, which they have built for many years, as well as providing opportunities for their music in the Christian market. The band has been wonderful to work with and we are looking forward to a great future with them!”

“It is a very exciting time being in Diamond Rio right now,” says Jimmy Olander, who plays electric and acoustic guitar for the group. “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.”

Leader vocalist for Diamond Rio, Marty Roe, agrees with Olander. “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 is one of the few groups on the music scene that has retained its original members, including Roe, Olander, Gene Johnson (mandolin, vocals), Brian Prout (drums), Dana Williams (bass, vocals), and Dan Truman (keyboards, piano). The band’s illustrious career includes over ten-million albums sales; nine #1 singles, six Vocal Group of the Year awards (Country Music Association & Academy of Country Music), 13 GRAMMY® nominations, and named Grand Ole Opry members in 1988. Highly regarded for their charitable contributions, Diamond Rio are long-time National Spokespersons for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and received the prestigious Minnie Pearl Humanitarian Award in 2004.

Diamond Rio is excited to take this new collection of music on the road and is planning a major Christmas tour in conjunction with the new CD. For more information on A Diamond Rio Christmas: The Star Still Shines and to hear audio clips, visit the bands YMZ artist page.