Darius Rucker Goes Down In History With ‘Wagon Wheel,’ Announces New Album, ‘Carolyn’s Boy’

Darius Rucker’s 11x platinum hit, “Wagon Wheel” has been named the fourth country song to ever be certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The three-time Grammy winner celebrated this monumental feat alongside friends and peers during a ceremony on October 26. 

UMG Nashville presented Rucker with a plaque during the event held at The Electric Jane in Nashville. He was honored for achieving a diamond certification, which signifies that the song or project has sold over 10,000,000 units.

The country star’s hit, “Wagon Wheel,” was co-penned by Bob Dylan and Ketch Secor and is featured on his 2013 album, True Believers. It now serves as one of only four songs to be certified diamond, joining Florida Georgia Line’s “Cruise,” Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey,” and Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Old Town Road.” 

In addition, Rucker was celebrated for earning his 10^th No. 1 single with “Beers And Sunshine.” He co-penned this song along with Ross Copperman, J.T. Harding and Josh Osborne, and watched it climb to the top of the charts in early 2021. 

“Thank you guys so much for the life you’ve given me,” Rucker shared when thanking the Country music community. “My life is so much better because I came to Nashville.”

While accepting the award, Rucker showed his gratitude towards Universal, ASCAP, and Sony for recognizing the song.

NBC’s TODAY anchor Craig Melvin was also in attendance to present Rucker with the RIAA Diamond trophy. In his speech, Melvin not only made note of Rucker’s accomplishments but also his tremendous philanthropic efforts, stating “he doesn’t just donate to these causes, Darius Rucker shows up.” 

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Rucker later joined Melvin for an interview to exclusively reveal the title of his new album planned for 2023. Plus, he shared that the meaningful cover image is a portrait of his late mother Carolyn, whom Rucker honors in this project. 

“I wanted to name the record Carolyn’s Boy because Mom never got to see any of my success,” he explained. “She died before any of this happened, so it’s just another homage to the greatest woman I’ve ever known.”

When asked why now is the right time to share a project in his mom’s honor, Rucker said, “years ago, I wasn’t really sure what my place in Country music was and I was trying to find it. Now I have found it – I know – and I think it’s time to give that record.”

He also took to social media to share the news with fans, earning comments of excitement and great anticipation from his listeners and fellow country stars like Michael Ray and Caylee Hammack. 

“It’s an homage to my mom, the greatest woman I’ve ever known! I can’t wait for you all to hear it next year,” his caption read. 

Fans can also get a bit of insight on what they can expect from the upcoming project through Rucker’s recent releases, “Same Beer Different Problem” and “Ol’ Church Hymn” which features America’s Got Talent finalists, Chapel Hart.