Quick, what do Billy Ray Cyrus, Rebecca St. James, Chet Atkins, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, Kumie, David Ragsdale, Thomas Kinkade and Jeff Foxworthy all have in common?

Well, there could be a lot of things, but the only one I know is John Scott Evans.

John has worked with all of those outstanding artists, either touring with them (Billy Ray), opening for them (Chet), writing with them (Kumie), or having them play in his band (David). You've got to admit that is a pretty impressive list, and of course there are many more names that could be added to it. With just a few more words (of the lyric variety) I might even be able to add my name. But that's another story.

For now I want to let you know two important things:
1. John is the newest artist on our Catch A Rising Star podcast.
2. John's new CD, Above The Sun, is just about to be available.

Taking those two things in order, if you listen to the podcast you will of course want to buy the CD. Reverse them and it still works. Buy the CD and you'll want to listen to the podcast. You win either way.

John is one of the finest fingerstyle guitarists you'll ever hear. There is something in his music that goes beyond the notes -- and there are more notes than you can imagine, but always just the right amount -- and gets into your heart and soul. Personally, I think it is joy.

Whatever it is, all you have to do is listen to know that it is there and that this music is special.

We wanted to give you a free sample of that, so John has agreed to let us put one of his songs on Free & Legal Music. Just follow that link, enter John's name, and you can grab your very own free and legal copy of Caliente from John's album Live At The Loft, featuring John with an outstanding band which included famed violinist David Ragsdale. (You'll hear more about that recording and how the band got put together when you listen to the podcast.)

Keep your eyes on John's website or on this blog to find out how you can get a copy of Above The Sun or other John Scott Evans recordings. In the meantime, enjoy the podcast and your free song, and spread the word about John Scott Evans and Catch A Rising Star.