• Comment: Please re-write this submission in neutral tone. It is not appropriate for Wikipedia to call a musician "legendary" in the encyclopaedia's own voice. Modussiccandi (talk) 09:43, 6 April 2022 (UTC)

Rudy Parris
BornDecember 16, 1965
Visalia, California
Occupation(s)Singer, Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist, Sound Engineer, Producer
Years active1982-Present
Websiterudyparris.com

Rudy Parris, born December 16, 1965, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Parris is primarily known for being a contestant in Season 3 of NBC's reality show 'The Voice'.[1] Over the years, he has worked alongside and been influenced by several country and blues singers, releasing moderately successful albums.

Early Life

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Parris was born in San Joaquin Valley, in central California. He began playing violin in fourth grade, but soon transitioned to the guitar. In his late teens, he began performing at local venues in Tulare County, and soon became an opening act for artists such as Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Jr., B.B. King, and Bo Diddley.[2]

Career

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Early

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Parris's musical journey saw him touring as the lead guitarist for The Damn Band, supporting Hank Williams III in 2003.[3] His appreciation for the Bakersfield sound led to a residency alongside the legendary Buck Owens at the Crystal Palace, a collaboration that lasted until Owens's passing in 2006.[4]

The Voice

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As a contestant of Season 3 of NBC's 'The Voice', Parris was introduced to a broader audience.[5] and was also showcased in the season finale. His performances on the show were well-received, particularly his guitar and vocal performance of "Rock and Roll All Nite" by Kiss.[6]

After The Voice

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Following The Voice, Parris was featured in the 2013 Jason Becker Not Dead Yet Concert, sharing the stage with the likes of Uli Jon Roth, Steve Morse, Richie Kotzen, and Gus G.[7]

He inked a deal with Warrior Records[6], leading to the release of "Makin' My Way", an album recorded at Hollywood's iconic Capitol Records. The project saw collaborations with Pete Anderson, Wanda Vick, “Cowboy” Eddie Long, Wes Hightower, Pat Vegas, Little Joe, Hank Williams III, Chad Smith, and actor Michael Madsen and has been described as a homage to the Bakersfield sound.[8]

Parris's dedication to the Bakersfield sound was evident when he performed for Merle Haggard's induction into the Bakersfield Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017. In 2019, he was invited to front The Buckaroos.[4]

His performance with The Rounders at the Kern County Fair in 2023 was a significant country homecoming, reflecting his deep connection with the Bakersfield music community.[9]

Cultural Heritage and Influence

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Parris is of Navajo descent, and incorporates elements of Navajo culture into his music.[10]

COVID-19 Response and Online Concert

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During the COVID-19 pandemic, Parris adapted by performing online concerts, maintaining a connection with his fans through digital platforms.[11]

Influences

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Parris's music is deeply rooted in the influences of greats like Owens, Haggard, B.B. King, and Stevie Ray Vaughn.[12]

Discography

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Studio Albums

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  • Modern Day Cowboy (1994)
  • Under the Influence (2006)
  • The Blue Room (2007)
  • Makin' My Way (2016)

Singles

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  • Every Breath You Take (2012, The Voice)
  • Bad Day (2012, The Voice)
  • Cowboy Cry (2017, Makin' My Way)

References

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  1. ^ Vespa, Gina VespaGina (2012-10-02). "Blake Shelton Completes His Team with Country Rocker Rudy Parris on 'The Voice'". PopCrush. Retrieved 2023-10-28.
  2. ^ Ward, James, "Visalia's Rudy Parris lands gig with Buckaroos at The Crystal Palace in Bakersfield", VisaliaTimesDelta.com, retrieved 2021-11-04
  3. ^ Franklin, Mark (October 8, 2012). "Meet Rudy Parris of Team Blake on The Voice". Retrieved 2021-11-04.
  4. ^ a b Ellis, Reggie (2019-02-13). "Visalia native and "The Voice" alumnus Rudy Parris becomes new frontman for Buckaroos at Crystal Palace". The Sun-Gazette Newspaper. Retrieved 2021-11-04.
  5. ^ Sciarretto, Amy (10 October 2012). "'The Voice' Battle Round Recap: Blake Shelton Keeps Rudy Parris". Taste of Country. Retrieved 2021-12-03.
  6. ^ a b "Warrior". www.warriorrecords.com. Retrieved 2023-10-28.
  7. ^ "Steve Morse,Richie Kotzen,Uli Jon Roth: Gretchen Menn calls you to attend the Jason Becker benefit". Truth In Shredding. 22 January 2013. Retrieved 2021-11-04.
  8. ^ Allers, Hannahlee AllersHannahlee (2014-03-11). "Rudy Parris of 'The Voice' Signs Record Deal". The Boot. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  9. ^ Californian, CESAREO GARASA For The (2023-01-25). "CESAREO GARASA: A country homecoming for Rudy Parris with The Rounders". The Bakersfield Californian. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  10. ^ "Appearing on 'The Voice' a confidence-booster for Diné artist". navajotimes.com. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  11. ^ Ward, James. "Missing live music while sheltering in place? Visalia's Rudy Parris has you covered". Visalia Times-Delta. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  12. ^ Joseph, Adam (2013-05-23). "Rudy Parris' story is a reminder to never judge a book by its cover". Monterey County Weekly. Retrieved 2023-10-28.