The Darlins

THE DARLINS ANNOUNCE RELEASE OF THEIR EP “CRUSH”; RELEASED SEPTEMBER 22, 2015

(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)

THE DARLINS ANNOUNCE RELEASE OF THEIR EP “CRUSH”; RELEASED SEPTEMBER 22, 2015

Country duo, The Darlins, released their EP Crush on September 22nd. Crush was produced by Buddy Hyatt in Nashville, TN. This swampy/supremely country EP will be available digitally wherever music is sold online. They kicked off promotion with a record release show in their hometown, Nashville, TN and will spend a week on the Country Cruise on October 22nd with host Neal McCoy, Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, and more shortly after the release.

In addition, thedarlins.com is currently streaming samples of some of the tracks from Crush and a video of the title track, directed and filmed by Jonathan Barbee, will be released later this fall.

The Darlins UPCOMING DATES

10/22-10/30 COUNTRY CRUISE TO THE BAHAMAS
www.countrycruising.com
11/12-11/15 INTERNATIONAL FRANK BROWN SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL
www.fbisf.com

About The Darlins

The Darlins met at the world renowned cosmetic company, SEPHORA, and have since shared the stage with the likes of Kacey Musgraves, Trace Adkins, Montgomery Gentry, and their new EP, Crush, highlights their honest songwriting, rootsy guitar riffs, and distinct harmonies. For more information, visit www.thedarlins.com.

A full track listing of Crush is as follows:

Black Crows and Scarecrows
Crush
Fast
Pistol
Say It Ain’t So
Spinning My Heart Around

Contact information

Please get in touch at info@thedarlins.com for interviews, additional information, and for promo copies of Crush.

www.thedarlins.com
www.twitter.com/thedarlinsmusic
www.facebook.com/thedarlins - PRESS RELEASE

Country music was long held as a mans world with legends like George Jones, Hank Williams, Merle and Willie. Then some of the greatest female voices in the world stepped on the to stage and country music was forever changed. There was Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, Patsy Cline, Reba, The Judd's,and today….The Darlins.

Erinn Bates and Jude Toy make up one of the country music industry’s fastest rising duos. With over 40,000 followers on Twitter and appearances with some of the industry’s most notable artists, they are unstoppable.

In an exclusive interview with Nashville Music Guide (NMG), The Darlins express their excitement in the enormous accomplishments still to happen this year and those already coming to fruition. 2015 has been the year for fast moving progress in their career.

Jude Toy and Erinn Bates The Darlins
Jude Toy and Erinn Bates
The Darlins

The Darlins have been doing a lot of new writing and have in the past collaborated with legendary songwriters such as Tony Mullins, Brian White, and Tia Sillars.

I must say… they’ve got something very special for the fans and I want to thank them both for giving us the exclusive high points of what we can be watching for as 2015 propels the Darlins onto the charts and across the airwaves.
NMG: Excitement is brewing for the Neal McCoy and Friends Cruise 2015. Please elaborate on your feelings and how long you will be on the cruise?

Erinn: We will be on the Country Cruise from Oct 23-30th. We can’t wait to perform with such great musicians and country artists. Everyone there will be a country music fan and that couldn’t make me happier!

Jude: I feel very blessed to be a part of this cruise. We are going to the Bahamas with Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols and thousands of country music fans, I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do.

Erinn Bates
Erinn Bates

This past year the Darlins received endorsements from Breedlove , makers of the most sought after guitars, mandolins, and instruments around the world. The Darlins have now been honored with yet another outstanding endorsement, Julie Miles, renowned jewelry designer. Her collection is known worldwide. Congratulations to the Darlins on this new endorsement.
NMG: You have a new video and EP coming out. Can you tell me how you selected the single that would be covered in the video and the name of your new EP?

Erinn: Our EP is titled Crush and that is also the title track. Crush is a song that always gets a big response at shows. We want our fans to be hands on with all that we do. Our fans on social media actually chose it as our single and we can’t wait to release the video for it.

Jude: Crush has been one of my personal favorites for a while now, I never get sick of playing it or hearing it. It has an edge to it that reminds me of the Civil War. I like that it has a country feel but has a rock n roll feeling too. I am so glad our fans picked that song for the EP and can’t wait for everyone to see the video.



The Darlins
The Darlins

NMG: I know all your music is your favorite but if you had to pick just one, which one would be your all time favorite and why?

Erinn: My favorite tune so far is Crush, but we also have a brand new one that might be my new favorite! Can’t wait to share it!

Jude: Haha, Erinn and I have almost the same take on our music. I have to say, I feel the exact same way. Crush so far, but our new one is really cool too!

NMG: Touring is most likely a big thing coming now that your appearing on larger venues. How do you feel about touring and also when do you think you will begin marketing your EP to local and national radio?

Erinn: We will begin marketing our EP with its release this fall. Personally, I can’t wait to hit the road. Touring is something I’ve always looked forward to doing.

Jude: We will market the EP with its release in September. We are doing a live stream on You Tube to introduce the video and a “behind the scenes” look at the filming of it. I really want to thank Jonathan Barbee for everything. He is a brilliant guy and we are looking forward to doing a lot with him in the future too.



Jude Toy
Jude Toy

The Darlins
The Darlins

As you can see from the dialogue, the excitement is in the air and rightly so. September 22nd marks the day for the big release of their new EP “Crush” so don’t wait, go to www.thedarlins.com and get your copy during the early online release.

“Crush” will be distributed worldwide with full internet and Social Media outlets including Itunes, Spotify, Apple Music, Facebook, and Amazon. Pre-sale release is September 15th and you can also find free downloads and lot’s of discounts.







The Darlins
The Darlins

Jude and Erinn are proof that with hard work, a love for what you do and the determination to make it in an industry that can sometimes be unforgiving….you can make your dreams come true.

For more information on the new release please visit the following sites:

The Darlins

FacveBook The Darlins

The Darlins Twitter

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The Darlins are making beautiful music with Sephora
August 8, 2013
In "Lyrics-N-Legends"
The Darlins, Rocking the Country in Nashville
July 26, 2012
In "Lyrics-N-Legends"
NMG Exclusive Interview with Nashville Duo “The Darlins”
May 12, 2014
In "Lyrics-N-Legends"
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- - Sherryl Craig

Earlier this year I spoke with Erinn Bates and Jude Toy, The Darlins, about great things on the horizon for them and their career. The last few years have pretty much sky rocketed for them and placed them on the forefront of what looks to be the making of 2014 being the year of The Darlins. ?????????? ?????? ?? ???? ????? ??????????? ?? ????? 31 ?????? 125 ???? ?? ????? ????? ? ??????????? ?????? ??????????? ???????????? ? ??????????? ????? ???????? ?? 2 ??????? ?? ?????? ?????? ????????? ?????? ? ?????????? ? ??????????? ??????????? ???????? ??? ???????? ?????? ????? ????? ?? ????? ?? ???????????? ???? ?? ???????? ? ???????? ???????? ??????? ? ?????????? ?????????? ? ?????? ??????? ???????? ??? ????? ?? ????????????? ??? ??????????? ????????? ????????? ?? ???? ???? ?? ??????? ?????? ???? ???? ???????? ????????? ?? ????????? ??????????? ?????????? ?? ??????? ???????? ???????? ????? ?????????? ??????? ????
Recently Jude and Erinn had the opportunity to open for legendary country music duo Montgomery Gentry in Richmond VA and once the show was over The Darlins had gained a tremendous amount of new fans, and caught the eyes of other influential people in the music industry.
These beautiful ladies are truly deserving of the amazing opportunities coming their way and in a candid conversation with Jude and Erinn, I was able to find out just how amazing the show in Richmond really was.
Lyrics N Legends: I know you guys must have been so excited and ecstatic about the show describe the excitement the day before and how it felt:
Jude: “It was amazing, I felt totally blessed and excited to be there. We worked incredibly hard so it felt really good.”
Erinn: “The day before the show, Jude and I were on cloud 9. Everything was going by so fast! Opening for Montgomery Gentry has always been a dream of mine.”
This year has definitely been a breakthrough year for Erinn and Jude. Their new album is set for release in early 2014, they have a new partnership coming with world renowned cosmetic giant Sephora, they have caught the eye of major influences in the country music industry and the fan base is growing rapidly.
Lyrics N Legends: What was the energy like when you first met with Montgomery Gentry?
Jude: “I was blown away, they are such nice guys and very down to earth. We are major fans too, so it was really cool to meet them and find out they were so kind and humble.”
Erinn: “I had met Eddie Montgomery a few months earlier and he was very kind. I had heard great things about Troy Gentry and when we met them after the show, they couldn’t have been any nicer. We were so excited to shake their hands. They put on a fantastic show”
Lyrics N Legends: Standing on stage must have given you a tremendous feeling of excitement and elation that dreams are coming true, describe how that feels, to actually see that the hard work is paying off.
Jude: “We have worked incredibly hard and it is so nice to see it start to pay off. We have such strong faith and believe all things are possible. I do feel blessed and grateful to God for all the wonderful things happening.”
Erinn: “Playing the show in Richmond was hands down the best I’ve ever felt on stage. People were cheering and feeling the music with us. We had played big shows before, but the fact that we were voted by the public to be on that very stage just made the energy even greater.”
The music industry is an industry that can be unforgiving at times and filled with exuberant blessings and rewards at others. It isn’t just a career it’s a way of life.
Jude and Erinn understand that and know all too well what it takes to make it in an career that demands hard work, long hours, and steady nerves of steal when it comes to critics and reviews, The Darlins have shown us, that if you truly have dedication and commitment, you can achieve the goals you set in place for yourself.

Great things are happening so head on over to www.thedarlins.com and check out all the excitement. You can also visit www.facebook.com/jude.toy or www.facebook.com/erinn.bates.9?fref=ts and www.facebook.com/thedarlinsmusic and you’ll be sure not miss out on all the new stuff coming up.
Lyrics N Legends recommends “The Darlins” as 2014's artist to watch. - Nashville Music Guide--Lyric's and Legends

The Darlins win Snagajob’s The Hourly Gig national music contest

By Imani Holmes September 12, 2013

More than 99,000 votes cast; The Darlins will open for Montgomery Gentry on Sept. 19

Richmond, Va., Sept. 13, 2013 – Snagajob, America’s largest hourly employment marketplace for job seekers and employers, announced today that The Darlins have won The Hourly Gig contest, which invited hourly employees and job seekers to submit videos of original songs for a chance to open for country rock duo Montgomery Gentry. The Darlins will open for Montgomery Gentry at the Sept. 19, 2013, Innsbrook After Hours concert held at the Snagajob Pavilion in Richmond, Va.

The Darlins are Erinn Bates and Jude Toy, who submitted their original song, “All my Friends,” in the contest to showcase their all original country music, with bluegrass and rock and roll influences. Hailing from Nashville, Tenn., Bates and Toy work at Macy’s and Sephora, respectively, as makeup artists.

“We found out about the contest a few days before submissions ended,” said Bates. “Once we read through what the contest was and who it was geared toward, we knew it was perfect because we met through our hourly job.”

The Hourly Gig, sponsored by Snagajob, was launched to give hourly employees and job seekers a chance to showcase their musical talents.

“Finding talent like The Darlins only confirms what we already knew,” said Jason Hamilton, vice president of marketing for Snagajob. “That many people work hourly positions while they pursue other passions and that there’s a lot of great, undiscovered talent out there getting paid by the hour.”

Nearly 600 videos were submitted during the contest, which began on Aug. 12, 2013. A judging panel comprising members of the music, entertainment and hourly employment industries selected five finalists based on each submission’s creativity, talent and entertainment value. Public voting to determine the winner was held Sept. 5 – 12, 2013. More than 99,000 votes were cast for the finalists.

To find out more about The Darlins and The Hourly Gig, visit www.snagajob.com/hourlygig. To find out more about the Innsbrook After Hours concert series, visit innsbrookafterhours.com.

About Snagajob

Snagajob, the largest hourly employment network for job seekers and employers, is the only company to provide both sourcing and talent management solutions to the hourly industry. With more than 40 million registered job seekers and the leading hourly-focused talent management system, Snagajob has been serving hourly workers and those who employ them since 2000. Headquartered in Richmond, Va., Snagajob has been named the No. 1 Best Small Company to Work for in America by the Great Place to Work Institute. To find out more, visit www.snagajob.com and www.snagajob.com/employer-solutions.

### - Snagajob.com

Nashville's "The Darlins" (part two)

The Darlins are one of Nashville's fastest rising duo's and they are not letting anything get in their way. The last several months has involved long hours in the studio, long hours writing with some of country musics finest song writers and making as many appearances around town as possible to perform their fans and showcase their new music. Jude Toy and Erinn Bates make the perfect singing duo. Their each unique and yet those unique qualities in each make the perfect combination for what will no doubt be a hit making team.

How would you describe the music of the “The Darlins” ? Are you country, blue grass, country rock, etc.
Erinn: “Bluegrass with a smokey eye”, haha. No, we are definitely country and on the rootsy side.
Jude: I almost feel we are a collection of all the above styles. Erinn has a beautiful voice that has a very blue grass/country feel to it. My voice and guitar playing are sort of on the rock side. It's the combination of both rough and soft, that blend together in a very interesting way. It makes our sound unique and not like anything out there right now. It's like Janis met Dolly and started a duo.
What dreams or goals are you shooting for this year in 2013?
Erinn: So far, this year has been incredible. We've played some great venues and have been focussing on writing and recording in the studio. Our goals this year are releasing The Darlins EP “Pistol”, writing even more, booking more shows, and taking it all to the next level.
Jude: To play and write music full time. To have songs cut and placed with major artists. To finish our EP and tour.
Describe your show, visually and musically and what you think sets you apart from most other duos.
Erinn: Jude and I are so different image wise so I think fans are usually intrigued by that initially. On stage, we keep our energy high and always focus on the music. We want people to feel it! Jude is an incredible guitar player and our voices have a unique blend. We also write every song we play.
Jude: I feel we engage our audience and really relate to the people who are watching us. We not only sing but play instruments and we both play well. I think our songs are well written, and we have great harmonies and melodies.
What's your outlook on the record industry today?
Erinn: The record industry is one that is always changing. I love that we have the ability to make our careers happen on our own, without the need for a major label. The indie labels are growing even more and it's great.
Jude: I feel the industry has changed so much and now many artists are branching out and doing things on their own. Social media and the Internet have changed everything. I think the traditional labels are struggling and it's gonna all eventually favor of the artist. I think that is where the focus and money need to be anyway.
What is the inspiration behind your new EP and what would you say the message is behind the songs?
Erinn: The title track “Pistol” is one we co-wrote with Brian White. Its the perfect title because we are pistols! The messages behind the songs really are just glimpses of who we are. We are relatable and we are real. The songs reflect it.
Jude: This EP is inspired by our deep love of music and songwriting. We love to share our vision/ music with people. We are spiritual people and we love God. We want to honor the gifts he has given us and share that with other people.
What would you say is the best and worst thing about playing clubs?
Erinn: Clubs are a blast. I love meeting new people and they are great places to try out new songs. The downside sometimes is the cigarette smoke, but we can handle it.
Jude: I think the best thing is playing before a live audience who loves and appreciates what we are doing. It's connecting with people, sharing our songs. I love to play out and want to do a lot more of it this year. The worst can often be the sound person. We can't always help the way the sound is mixed or we can't hear anything on stage, very frustrating.
Tell me about your next show and why I should be there:
Erinn: Our next show is Friday, June 14th at The Bluebird Cafe at 6pm. We play the Bluebird a few times a year and we always make it very special. Our featured guests in our round this time will be Steve Pasch, who runs SB21 Publishing and has written songs for superstars like Lenny Kravitz. We will have Greg Barnhill who wrote “Walkaway Joe” for Trisha Yearwood and AJ Masters who has written songs for Faith Hill and John Berry. Also, we always ask a special guest to come up and play a song. Our past guests have been songwriters, Tony Mullins, Jon Ims, Kostas, and 80s rocker, Tommy Tutone, to name a few. This time, we will feature the mega talented and soulful singer/songwriter Paris Delane of Sonia Dada who wrote Jarrod Niemann's hit “Lover, Lover”. You can't miss it! We guarantee you'll be glad you came! - Nashville Music Guide

Jude Toy and Erinn Bates are “The Darlins” one of Nashville's most popular duo's they are quickly rising in the music industry. They share a common goal; to write and perform the next series of number one hit's in country music. Over the course of the last few months Jude and Erinn have been involved in some serious song writing with several of Nashville's heavy hitters. Maybe some of these names will pop out at you. Tia Sillers who wrote “I Hope You Dance” recorded by Lee Ann Womack and “There's Your Trouble” by the Dixie Chicks….The Darlin's are proving time and time again that they are serious about not only the “music” but the “story” that the music tells.
In the first installment of a two part candid interview with Jude and Erinn we touched on a little more of the personal side of being a singer/songwriter in such a huge industry and about what matters most as well as what's closest to their heart.
NMG: Who are/or what has been your biggest musical influence?
Jude: I would have to say my mom was my biggest influence initially. She was a concert pianist, she practiced for hours while I was growing up. I really had a good example of great composers and melodies. Mozart and Beethoven especially and Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Willy Nelson, and Hank Williams were also great influences; and also my high school teacher, who taught me the value of a great song, and the power of a great lyrics. He was the first person to take a major interest in me as a writer.
Erinn: For me personally, my biggest influences in this career have been the incredible hit writers in this town. I thoroughly try to learn from every co-writer and from each song that grabs me.
The next perfect collaboration for the Darlins is writing with Tony Mullins who wrote “Me and My Gang” Rascal Flatts, “How Forever Feels” Kenny Chesney…
NMG: What experiences, if any, influence your music and the lyrics you write?
Jude: I would say that you write what you know and I do feel that love has always been a motivating factor in my writing.
Erinn: As a songwriter, it is true that you should write what you know. Every substantial relationship I ever had has a song about it. Negative and positive.
NMG: Is there a famous song that you wish you had written and if so which one is it and why?
Jude: I wish I would have written “Crazy” Willy Nelson because it's just such a great song, and no matter how much time goes by it remains classic, or “Hey Jude” for obvious reasons. Lol
Erinn: I wish I wrote “I Hope You Dance”. There's not another song out there that hits me harder. It really has helped me through tough times.
NMG: How do you balance being an entertainer and a business woman?
Jude: I feel like I am constantly working and I am grateful to have Erinn to balance me out. We share much of the work that needs to be done and between the two of us we get a lot accomplished. It also helps so much to have a partner with such a great work ethic.
Erinn: It's tough even this early in the game. Keeping a plan and following through on it is key. That's why I'm glad we are a duo! We help each-other try to balance both.
NMG: What's your favorite non-country song and why?
Jude: “I Can Only Imagine” It's beautiful and moving, I love the way it makes me feel.
Erinn: My favorite non-country song is Don Henley's Boys of Summer. Everything about it is perfect to me. Nobody has written about Summer love and pining for someone better.
NMG: Tell me about what feeds your writing fix?
Jude: I am inspired by melody, and it's most likely my biggest strength. I play around my guitar and it's so fun for me to come up with different ideas. I am also inspired by the incredible talent that surrounds us in our writing appointments. We are really blessed to be working with such amazing folks.
Erinn: The constant need to always write the best song and the desire to make it greater than the one before definitely feeds the fix.
NMG: Who are some of the top song writers you have been writing with?
Jude: Well, I would have to say Tony Mullins, Brian White, and Tia Sillars. I also really feel like you can write with people you really believe in, people that don't have big hits but have such inspiring ideas and amazing talent that you know you can get something really great. An example of this would be Jaron Boyer. He is incredible and although a total pain in the ass, his talent is just unreal.
Erinn: Jude and I write a lot together and on our own, but the top five for me have definitely been Brian White, Kostas, Tia Sillers, Steve Pasch, and Max T. Barnes.
NMG: Who is the most famous song writer you would love to collaborate with and why?
Jude: I would love to write with Victoria Shaw because she is just so cool!
Erinn: I think the most famous we should collaborate with would be Dolly Parton. Both of us being from Tennessee, I have always felt a connection with her songs and her voice. That writing a - Nashville Music Guide

Jude Toy and Erinn Bates make up one of Nashville’s most amazing duets. With a blend of soulful melodies, a touch of folk, a little edge of bluegrass, and a smooth blend of contemporary rockin country it’s just the right touch of their own special style that makes up the Darlins. Jude started the original group in LA and when she moved to Nashville she began looking for a partner. Her search for the perfect voice ended when she met Erinn and the two knew the rest was history in the making. Currently hosting singer/songwriters showcases, working on their new album, and appearing on Renegade Radio with Kaptain Jack, as well as performing at the Alabama Line showcase weekly, The Darlins are etching a unique spot in the industry of country music. Their style is all their own and not only are they beautiful on the outside but their inner beauty shines through in their music. I had the opportunity to do a Candid Conversations Chat with Jude and Erin. They made me laugh and I discovered some cool and interesting things about one of Nashville’s most beautiful and talented rising duets. Enjoy and stay tuned…. there’s much more to come.

Music City Guide:
What’s the name of your current single (if any) and the title of the album it’s on?
The Darlins:
We are currently working on our first EP and it should be completed in the fall of this year.

Music City Guide:
What’s the weirdest thing you have ever autographed?
The Darlins:
An earring/Matthew Burgess, and our drummer’s head.

Music City Guide:
Who would you like to record a duet with and why?
The Darlins:
Jason Aldean because we love the fact that his songs and his delivery is very rockin’ and we like to think we are that way also.

Music City Guide:
What was the one thing that made your decision to chose a career in the entertainment industry your life’s decision?
The Darlins:
We are not good at anything else. Lol

Music City Guide:
What’s your all time favorite food and do you like to cook or would you rather eat out?
The Darlins:
We both love to cook but love to go out also. It makes it easier to go out and not have to clean up.

Music City Guide:
What’s the one thing you won’t leave the house without?
The Darlins:
Phone for sure.

Music City Guide:
What’s the first song you ever performed in public and where did you perform?
The Darlins:
Jude: The first song I ever sang was a song I wrote called “15 To Vegas” It was a show I opened along with other writer’s for Victoria Williams in Pioneer Town, Joshua Tree
Erinn: The first song I sang in public was “The Sound of Music”. I was the lead role as Maria in the musical. 13 years old. My parents didn’t even know I could sing!

Music City Guide:
What has been the craziest but most memorable moment while on tour or at a show?
The Darlins:
What happens at 12th and Porter stays at 12th and Porter. Lol

Music City Guide:
We all know that fans like to share special gifts. Have you ever had a fan send you a gift, and if so what was the coolest?
The Darlins:
A fan made us some very cool bracelets.

Music City Guide:
A lot of entertainers in today’s industry try to pay it forward to the community when possible. Is there a charity you hold close to your heart and if so why?
The Darlins:
Mending Hearts. We played a show for them last year at Rocket Town and it was very moving. The stories behind many of the women there are truly inspirational.

Music City Guide:
Through out your career you’ve worked with some amazing artists, song writers and performers, if you had to choose just one, who would it be and why?
The Darlins:
Tia Sillars. She is an incredible talent and brilliant writer. We feel like she “got us” and we wrote some killer songs with her.

Music City Guide:
What, if any, advise would you give to aspiring new artist’s who come to Nashville to begin a singing career?
The Darlins:
Keep trying, believing, and never give up.

Music City Guide:
The life of a musician is tough and sometimes it can take a toll on family. How important is family to you and what do you do to keep that bond while being away from home touring?
The Darlins:
It’s being with the right person. Someone who supports you and believes in your dreams. Family is extremely important. God and love of family mean the world to us.

Current Album for the Darlins: Release date is set for fall of 2012

Music City Guide:
What are your current radio or TV projects?
The Darlins:
We had a song featured in the ABC show “GCB” and currently we have songs airing on the Sportsman’s Channel.

Music City Guide:
Is there any special and/or current charities or community work you may be involved in around Nashville.
The Darlins:
We support as many charities as we can but currently we are working with Toys For Tots/Demi/ Mending Hearts/Animal Rescue and Breast Cancer Awareness for ICM’s

For more information on The Darlins check out their new website at www.thedarlins.com and check back with us he - Nashville Music Guide

Showcasing the Nashville duo, The Darlins PIC - STEVE CLAYTON

Music City Roots featuring Gary Morris at Loveless Barn
When: Wed., Aug. 11, 7 p.m.
A big-voiced belter who achieved the kind of crossover success that helped define '80s country music, Gary Morris specialized in overblown but not mindless power ballads before moving on to Broadway stardom. The Texas native dominated the country charts during the mid-1980s, delivering songs such as “The Wind Beneath My Wings" and “The Love She Found in Me" with his perfectly controlled tenor. During his Broadway phase, Morris played Rodolfo in Puccini's La Bohème. And while it could be that Morris' gifts are more suitable to the stage, his country hits hold up pretty well — it takes a real singer to make power ballads come alive. He's still at it, and his voice is as potent as ever. Also appearing are bluegrass artists Claire Lynch and Chris Jones and the Night Drivers, along with neo-folkies Lissy Rosemont and the Darlins.
— Edd Hurt
Slideshow Loveless Cafe
BELLEVUE 8400 Highway 100
646-9700
www.lovelesscafe.com+ - Nashville Scene

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (August 13, 2009)- Singer/songwriters Erinn Bates of Nashville and Jude Toy of Portland, Oregon are the country duo, The Darlin’s and were announced the winners of the WSM radio finals competition held at the Nashville Palace on August 12. They will open for country star, Darryl Worley, at the Wilson County Fair in Lebanon on August 24, 2009.


Erinn Bates is a Hillwood High School and Belmont University alum who had a label deal with Sony Nashville before the merge with BMG. She has recorded sides with The Judds producer, Brent Maher, and Lee Ann Womack producer, Mark Wright. She is also the singer of the Honest Abe Log Home jingle.


Portland native, Jude Toy, spent time in LA recording and performing as lead guitarist in the rock band, The Creamers and started the duo, The Darlin’s, in the late 90s. After moving to Nashville, the lead singer left to pursue other ventures and Jude was left with finding another duo partner.


Bates and Toy met at the renowned cosmetic company, Sephora in the Green Hills Mall in Nashville in 2006 and began collaborating in September of 2008. They have been writing their own songs and performing at venues such as The Listening Room, The Bluebird Café, and Mad Donna’s. They recently opened for country singer, Andy Griggs, at the Southside Festival in Southside, Alabama.


They will be kicking off the Wilson County Fair festivities on August the 21st with WSM 650 at the Cracker Barrel in Lebanon, Tennessee.



- The Tennessean

Erinn Bates and Jude Toy were both singer/songwriters trying to make it in Nashville. They didn’t really know each other well at all. Toy recalls that she had a feeling one day that she should e-mail Bates and see if she wanted to work together and sing together. The result of that collaboration was a new duo, The Darlins.

Toy explains that she had taken a year to write a TV show about music and how the songs get to the artists, along with all the twists and turns that come along with it. “It’s a really interesting show, but it took me so far from why I came here. I’d play an occasional show at the Bluebird. That’s about the time I emailed Erinn just wanting to get out there so much,” said Toy.

Bates had had a tough year as well. She cited the thing that impacted her most creatively was losing a record deal. She was supposed to be signed to Sony, but a merger cost the record deal.

“That’s the best thing that could have happened,” Bates said in retrospect, but that’s not how she felt at the time. She said she was really upset. It caused the Nashville native to move out of Nashville completely and move to Las Vegas. “I learned how to write. I wrote a song a day,” noting that many of the songs she was writing at first weren’t very good. “Everything I had wanted to say for so long was coming out.”

Bates honed her songwriting craft and moved back to Nashville a year later. She said that she had the feeling that people get when they move to Nashville to pursue their dreams. “I got that for the first time because I was born and raised here,” she added.



The first song the two women wrote together was called “First Comes The Falling.” It’s uncommon for writers that had never written together before to connect so well during their first meeting. Not only did it start a successful partnership musically, it was also the beginning of a great friendship. “This has been a blast,” said Toy, adding it’s been a lot of work, but also a lot of fun.

The duo started playing shows at The Listening Room in Nashville. They said Jack Hayford took them under his wing and helped them get used to playing together. Although their voices blend very nicely, their influences are somewhat different. Bates’ influences are country. While Toy is influenced by country artists as well, she said she’s also been influenced by rock artists such as Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Tom Petty. “I feel like I have a little more of a rock and roll influence,” Toy said.

Shortly after they started singing together, they were advised to audition for the reality show, “Can You Duet?” They did, but they didn’t make it. “We weren’t ready,” Bates said, adding that the duo had only written about a song and a half at that point.

It’s been less than a year since Bates and Toy joined forces, but they have already had quite a bit of success. They say having their music on MySpace has helped give them exposure. One of their biggest career breaks to date came when they won the WSM radio contest to open for Darryl Worley at the Wilson County Fair on Aug. 24.

The Darlins are now getting weekly exposure as a part of Alabama Line, a group of songwriters that perform every Tuesday at the Center Stage in Nashville, near Mercy Lounge on Cannery Row. In addition to The Darlins, the weekly show features Tommy Tutone and the Wayne Mills Band, among others. The show runs from 7 p.m. to midnight. More information can be found at www.alabamaline.com.

written by Rick Amburgey





- Strum Magazine

Music City Roots featuring Gary Morris at Loveless Barn
When: Wed., Aug. 11, 7 p.m.
A big-voiced belter who achieved the kind of crossover success that helped define '80s country music, Gary Morris specialized in overblown but not mindless power ballads before moving on to Broadway stardom. The Texas native dominated the country charts during the mid-1980s, delivering songs such as “The Wind Beneath My Wings" and “The Love She Found in Me" with his perfectly controlled tenor. During his Broadway phase, Morris played Rodolfo in Puccini's La Bohème. And while it could be that Morris' gifts are more suitable to the stage, his country hits hold up pretty well — it takes a real singer to make power ballads come alive. He's still at it, and his voice is as potent as ever. Also appearing are bluegrass artists Claire Lynch and Chris Jones and the Night Drivers, along with neo-folkies Lissy Rosemont and the Darlins.
— Edd Hurt
Slideshow Loveless Cafe
BELLEVUE 8400 Highway 100
646-9700
www.lovelesscafe.com+ - Nashville Scene

There is nothing I love more than happy, kind, fun, loving people. That is exactly what you will find in, The Darlins. Let me start with telling you who they are. Erinn Bates and Jude Toy are the lovely faces of, The Darlins. They are armored with a passion for great music, incredible vocals, brilliant songwriting, outgoing personalities with a touch of sass and hearts of pure gold. These two are turning heads in Nashville as they pursue their dreams.

During my conversation with them, I immediately found myself wanting to go shopping with them or grabbing coffee so we could sit, chat and no doubt laugh hysterically at anything and everything. We talked about how they met, what exciting events they have coming up and some of the inspirations they have had. I encourage you to listen to our full interview to see what I mean about their incredible personalities, but for now here is a sample of our great conversation.



Missy: I heard that there was a very interesting way on how you two met, so…and I heard it involved Sephora, which is one of my new favorite places. Can you tell us about that? (Immediately they chuckled, yes…we all love Sephora!)



The Darlins: "It is amazing how we met. We worked together and we knew about each other’s talent…"



Missy: So, you guys were BOTH pursuing music individually prior to meeting?



The Darlins: "Yes. Yeah. Yes!"



Missy: How long had you been playing music prior to forming The Darlins?



The Darlins: "Oh Gosh…Forever!"



It was at this moment that Jude begins talking about how she was that girl that just packed her bags and took a taxi out of Los Angeles and headed for Nashville! Maybe this is why I connected with her right away. Nashville, when it calls…you just answer!



Missy: How long have you guys been, The Darlins?



The Darlins: "Well we started writing together in 2009, but we technically didn’t become The Darlins until 2011."



Then they shared their experience on how they were able to open for Country Greats, Darryl Worley and Montgomery Gentry. All I can say is WOW! Congratulations Ladies…that must have been an extraordinary experience to have.



Missy: You guys are doing something that not a lot of artists are doing. You are giving away music on your site!



The Darlins: "We ARE!..."



Seriously, an artist is giving away their music? Just whose idea was this? What was the inspiration behind this remarkable decision? They gave credit for this brilliant idea to, Rick Barker (former manager for Taylor Swift). His words were simple, “If you want to sell a million albums, you’ve got to meet a million people.”



What is next for these two? Well as it turns out, they are in for the time of their lives as they join a country music cruise in just a few weeks! No, I am not one bit jealous. Of course I am! Do you know who is going to be on this cruise with them? Joe flipping Nichols and Trace Adkins! Can you say LUCKY or Eye Candy? Oh just wait…they will be posting all about it I am sure. For more info on their upcoming cruise go to www.countrycruising.com



Their new EP, “Crush” is available now on all online music outlets, and their new video for “Crush” will be out this fall, so don’t miss it! Also, don’t forget to download your free music from The Darlins! Just follow the link below to their homepage. OK...if you have not yet listened to our conversation, do that NOW! Until next time ~Missy - Center Stage Magazine

The dynamic duo “The Darlins, Jude Toy and Erinn Bates. These beautiful ladies have had a super, fast paced year. Touring with major artist such as Trace Atkins and Joe Nichols, the Darlins are set to release their new video “Crush” in January. Jude and Erinn are country rocking Nashville, the USA, and all parts in between. Along with the January release for Crush they will be announcing previews and live stream with behind the scenes looks at the song and filming of the video. Their song “FAST” from the same EP is up for nomination into Florida’s Big Country Top 20 Countdown. The Darlins have definitely earned a spot in the Best of 2015 for NMG. - Nashville Music Guide

Today I want to introduce you to The Darlins. This powerhouse duo is made up of Erinn Bates and Jude Toy. We're going to talk FREE music, their passion for music, bucket list items, collaborations and more! Keep reading to find out how to get their music for free, and all of the answers to the topics above!

NN: Tell us a little bit about each of you, where you're from and where your passion for music started?

Erinn: I am a Nashville native born and raised. My passion for music started very early on. I grew up listening to all types of music, but my Dad introduced me to country. He would play 95.5 FM and AM 650 driving me to school in the mornings. I completely fell in love with it and knew early on I wanted to sing and write country songs.

Jude: My mom was a concert pianist and she used to practice for 8 hours a day. When I was a baby, I heard the best of the best, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Chopin. All the classics, so I learned to love great music at a very early age. I also think it was this experience that gave me a feel for great melody, composition and writing.

NN: How did you come together as a band?

​Erinn: We met at a Sephora store in Nashville. Jude and I both were pursuing music full time as solo artists/writers and we worked there as well. I saw Jude play at the Bluebird Cafe and was floored by her talent.

Jude: I knew how talented Erinn was and asked if she'd like to try writing and singing together. The rest fell into place.

NN: What is your favorite song you have recorded and why? What is the meaning behind it for you?

Erinn: My favorite song we have written so far is one called “Black Crows and Scarecrows” that is on our new EPCrush. It was oddly a song that I was singing in a dream and somehow I remembered a few of the lines and melody the next morning when writing wth Jude. I love the fact that it is edgy and not your typical breakup song.

Jude: I think it's our new one, “Look at What Love Built" and although we haven't recorded it with a full band, I really love this song. It has everything I love, great melody and hook. I love the big chorus and the way it flows. We are super excited about it.

NN: What is one bucket list item you've been able to cross off of your musical bucket list? What is one you would love to cross off?

Erinn: My bucket list moment was performing for thousands of country fans on the 2015 Country Cruise with Joe Nichols, Craig Morgan, Trace Adkins, and more. My one thing that I would love to do is play the Grand Ole Opry. As a Music City local and lifelong country music fan, the Opry is very special to me. I really hope to cross that off the list soon!

Jude: I think opening for Montgomery Gentry a couple of years back and the major acts we've played with this past year. I would love to cross off opening for Little Big Town or Eric Church.....I am hopeful for that this next year. Plus, a few hit songs and number one hits.

NN: Tell us about your music. How would you describe your sound? Your musical influences?

Erinn: Our sound is completely ‘me & Jude’. We are rootsy, but also very rocking. Two of my biggest influences are Alison Krauss and Little Big Town.

Jude: I think we are very real, authentic, and honest in our approach. I don't think we really sound like anyone else. It would be more like if Dolly met her rock and roll soulmate Janice Joplin. I think that is how I would best describe us. We often say, we are country/bluegrass with a smoky eye.

NN: If you could do a collaboration with anyone/group, who would you choose and why?
Erinn: Eric Church. I think our sound mixed with his voice would be incredible. He’s such a great songwriter and musician.

Jude: I would say Little Big Town. I love their songs and harmonies. They are such an inspiration. I also love Eric Church, I like his style and approach to songwriting.

NN: When traveling or going on the road what are three things you can't leave home without?

Erinn: I always take too much on the road! If I had to take three then my phone, mascara, and my skincare.

Jude: Good question?? I usually way over pack, and take almost everything I own, so it would be really hard to pick three. I guess, my guitar, my lip gloss, and for sure a great pair of heels.

NN: What is your favorite show/show story from going on the road and connecting with fans?

Erinn: We have had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people from all over the country. Performing here in town at the Bluebird Cafe is always a highlight for me and mostly everyone at those shows is from out of town. It’s one of the best venues to introduce your music to people. Some of our most loyal fans are friends we made at the Bluebird.

Jude: I would have to say this most recent tour, going to the Bahamas with Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, Craig Morgan and Parmalee. We did an autograph day and it was so fun to interact with new fans and talk to people who were just learning about us. We love our fans and any experience we get to become closer to them is a great one.

NN: What is the best piece of advice you have been given as far as your music career?

Erinn: My best piece of advice is from one of my most favorite songwriters, Leslie Satcher. I introduced myself to her at one of her shows and she signed my journal. I told her I was a songwriter, and she wrote, ““Erinn— Be a Rule Breaker”.

Jude: Stay true to who you are, write great songs, and keep focused. The songs and fans are so important and it all comes down to that in the long run.

The Darlins new EP Crush is out and you need to make sure you grab it! You can get it on iTunes here and on their website here.
The Darlins were gracious enough to let me know that you the readers can download 7 FREE songs on their website or at this link here. Make sure you do that today! - Nashvile News 15