Shenandoah is an Alabama-based country outfit that gained popularity in the late ’80s for their tuneful, radio-friendly sound and traditional style melodies. Their success peaked in the early ’90s with chart-topping hits like ‘The Church on Cumberland Road,’ ‘Two Dozen Roses,’ and ‘Next to You, Next to Me.’ Despite a decline in the late ’90s, Shenandoah remained active in touring and sporadic recordings. In 2020, they collaborated with renowned artists such as Luke Bryan, Brad Paisley, and Blake Shelton on the album ‘Every Road.’ The band was founded in 1984 in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, by guitarist Jim Seales, drummer Mike McGuire, bassist Ralph Ezell, keyboardist Stan Thorn, and lead singer Marty Raybon. Initially known as the MGM Band, they changed their name to Shenandoah to avoid legal issues. Shenandoah’s early success led to multiple hits and accolades, including a Grammy Award for their duet ‘Somewhere in the Vicinity of the Heart’ with Alison Krauss.
After a series of successful albums in the ’90s, Shenandoah faced challenges with legal disputes over their name and bankruptcy. Despite the setbacks, they regrouped and continued producing hit singles like ‘I Want to Be Loved Like That’ and ‘If Bubba Can Dance (I Can Too).’ Shenandoah’s versatility and enduring popularity led them to collaborations with Alison Krauss, resulting in chart-topping singles like ‘Somewhere in the Vicinity of the Heart.’ Over the years, the band underwent lineup changes but maintained their musical essence. In 2000, they reformed with new members and released an album named 2000. The band’s resilience and adaptability were evident as they navigated industry changes and released albums like ‘Journeys’ and ‘Good News Travels Fast.’ In recent years, Shenandoah reconnected with their roots by releasing a live album, ‘Reloaded,’ and engaging in collaborations with younger artists on projects like ‘Every Road,’ showcasing their enduring influence in the country music scene.