Darius Rucker coming to Dos Amigos Sunday

He may be best known for serving as lead singer of the soft rock band Hootie and the Blowfish, but Darius Rucker has a break-out country hit on his hands with his first solo country album “Learn to Live.”

The album’s singles include number one hits like “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” “It Won’t Be Like This For Long” and “Alright.” He’ll bring both some of his new solo hits and even a few Hootie songs here Sunday with his concert at Dos Amigos. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Rucker took some time to answer questions for the OA about his music career and new country emphasis. Here’s what he had to say:

Odessa American: Why switch to country? And was the move pretty natural for you or somewhat of a surprise?

Darius Rucker: It was really fairly natural for me. We’ve always had great hooks and melodies with Hootie. The band had been on the road forever, and I was interested in doing this record for the past two or three years. The band didn’t want to do a country record, and with Hootie taking a break from touring it just was just the right time.

OA: Will you ever get back with Hootie for a future tour or album?

Darius: Some few years down the road we’ll do some new Hootie work, but country is my day job and what I am passionate about. I’d feel like a jerk to just go back to Hootie without giving this all I’ve got.

OA: What’s it like playing at a small venue compared to a larger stadium? How do you like each?

Darius: I like both big and small places. With a small place, there is nothing like playing a show and seeing everybody in a small place. I can get to anybody. People have a real party in places like that with great energy.

OA: Is there a difference between you as a solo artist and you as a front man for Hootie?

Darius: I’m older now, and the party isn’t as important now like it was back then. I’m trying to sit back and take things in to enjoy it. I’m 43, married with three kids and it’s just different. When I started on this album, I didn’t set out to write a record of my life, but it happened. It’s also cool being so accessible to fans now. People feel closer and can come up to you even just walking the street in Nashville.

OA: Have you ever toured in West Texas before, and what are your thoughts on coming here?

Darius: We’ve toured pretty much all over for Hootie, but I am not sure if I have ever been to Odessa. It’s amazing how Texas has treated me as a country artist though. Texas is it’s own nation pretty much, the first station that had me was in San Antonio. Playing me early was such a big help, and the love I get in Texas is amazing. I haven’t turned down an invitation to play there yet.

OA: How do you balance both your Hootie and solo songs when developing sets for concerts?

Darius: It’s easy because both are still my voice. The people who come to see me like it all, and when I sing “Let Her Cry” from Hootie, people go crazy. Everyone in the audience screams.

OA: You are the first black country singer with a number one hit since Charley Pride. Do you feel you had difficulty breaking that barrier or were things easier?

Darius: For me, the songs did it. Hootie may have opened doors I wouldn’t have had, but it was the songs. Any DJ from the ’90s radio knew me. It just worked.

OA: You have tried to really bring attention to your aunt’s love of country music. Has your family influenced your success?

Darius: People always told me I’d never make it; I was from South Carolina. But, they told me not to listen to them. When I heard Willie Nelson in my aunt’s car, it was reassuring. They have shaped me to be where I am now.