Rudy Parris

Rudy Parris, born December 16, 1965, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist hailing from California's San Joaquin Valley. Noted for his unique blend of country and blues, Parris gained national recognition as a contestant in Season 3 of NBC's reality show 'The Voice'. Over the years, he has worked alongside and been influenced by several country and blues legends, solidifying his place in the contemporary music scene.
==Early Life==
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.
==Career==
===Early===
Parris's musical journey saw him touring as the lead guitarist for The Damn Band, supporting Hank Williams III in 2003. 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.
===The Voice===
Season 3 of NBC's 'The Voice' introduced Parris to a broader audience. His blind audition featuring a country-tinged rendition of "Every Breath You Take," impressed judges Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton. He later performed Daniel Powter's "Bad Day" 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.
===After The Voice===
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.
He inked a deal with Warrior Records, 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.
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.
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.
===Cultural Heritage and Influence===
Parris is of Navajo descent, and incorporates elements of Navajo culture into his music.
===COVID-19 Response and Online Concert===
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Parris adapted by performing online concerts, maintaining a connection with his fans through digital platforms.
===Influences===
Parris's music is deeply rooted in the influences of greats like Owens, Haggard, B.B. King, and Stevie Ray Vaughn.
==Discography==
===Studio Albums===
*Modern Day Cowboy (1994)
*Under the Influence (2006)
*The Blue Room (2007)
*Makin' My Way (2016)
===Singles===
* Every Breath You Take (2012, The Voice)
* Bad Day (2012, The Voice)
* Cowboy Cry (2017, Makin' My Way)
Category:1965 births
Category:American singers
Category:American people
Category:Songwriters