Newby's Memphis : Calendar : Big Smith - Cd Release Party

In 2007 music became the full-time profession for Big Smith, as their expanded touring schedule attests – 2009 has seen them play upwards of 100 shows. They are still adored in their native Ozarks, but years of travel have earned them a place as a Midwest institution. They have made their mark outside their region with several forays to Chicago, Nashville, Austin and Colorado; several tours to the West Coast including two in 2007; and along the length of the Mississippi from the Twin Cities to New Orleans. They have recently enjoyed high-profile opening gigs for the likes of Emmylou Harris, Doc Watson, The Avett Brothers and the Del McCoury band. Summer of 2008 found them traveling to Europe for the 21st Annual Country Rendez-Vous Festival in Crappone, France.

The documentary Homemade Hillbilly Jam, profiling the band and the music of their extended family, has garnered rave reviews and a legion of new fans through numerous screenings at film festivals around the world. The DVD has enjoyed wide circulation in Europe and the U.S.A via distribution through First Run Features.

Prior to the release of Roots, Shoots, and Wings, their next most recent studio CD is a double disc made with their young fans in mind, Hay to Zzzzzz: Hillbilly Songs for Kids. Prior to Hay to Zzzzzz, Big Smith released Gig, another double CD. Long requested by fans, it is a generous sampling of what one can expect from the band’s legendary club appearances. The band has also released two celebrated studio CDs – their self-titled debut, and Big Rock. The catalog is rounded out by and a live gospel CD, Live at Lonestar, that pays tribute to their family’s musical roots.