News Release

By DEE REID
UNC News Services

CHAPEL HILL – Darrell Scott, who has written hit songs for country music stars including Sara Evans, will perform April 21 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The singer and instrumentalist will share his distinctive blend of country, bluegrass, folk and jazz from noon to 1 p.m. on the Educational Foundation Terrace of Graham Memorial. The building is off East Franklin Street west of the Morehead Planetarium.

The free, public performance will be part of the "Thursdays on the Terrace" concert series sponsored by the James M. Johnston Center for Undergraduate Excellence. During his campus visit, Scott also will meet with a music class.

Scott, who plays numerous instruments, wrote Evans’ breakthrough hit "Born to Fly," as well as "Long Time Gone" and "Heartbreak Town" by the Dixie Chicks. He contributed to "Great Day to be Alive" by Travis Tritt and "When No One’s Around" by Garth Brooks.

Scott has toured with Guy Clark and Sam Bush, and he has recorded with Steve Earle, Patty Loveless, Randy Travis, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Tim O’Brien. The Dixie Chicks have called Scott "one of the greatest writers of our time."

Scott was named Songwriter of the Year by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers in 2002 and by the National Songwriters Association International in 2001. His album "Theatre of the Unheard" was named Album of the Year in the 4th Annual Independent Music Awards this year.

"Scott’s devoted following results not only from his critically acclaimed recordings, but also because of collaboration with fellow musicians," said Dr. Jocelyn Neal, assistant professor of music, who specializes in country and popular music. "Other artists have released more than 40 of his songs."

For more information, visit www.johnstoncenter.unc.edu or call 919-966-5110.

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Johnston Center contact: Dr. Randi Davenport, 843-7765, rdavenpo@email.unc.edu

News Services contacts: Print, LJ Toler, 962-8589; broadcast, Karen Moon, 962-8595.