Southern Style

Released in 2015, Southern Style represents Darius Rucker's fourth foray into the country market, solidifying his status as a permanent fixture in the Nashville establishment rather than a crossover novelty. Produced by long-time collaborator Frank Rogers, the album was culled from an intensive writing period of sixty songs, resulting in a 13-track collection that emphasizes Rucker's 'Low Country' South Carolina roots. Sonically, the album sits at the intersection of contemporary country radio and the soulful adult-contemporary pop of the 1990s. While lead single 'Homegrown Honey' leaned into the upbeat, rhythmic trends of the era, the album's emotional core is found in its more reflective tracks. Critics noted the album's consistency and Rucker's ability to imbue even the most standard Nashville tropes with genuine soul. The record earned international recognition, winning International Album of the Year at the British Country Music Association Awards, proving the global appeal of Rucker's specific brand of Americana-tinged country pop.