Local hero returns to Charleston for concert fundraiser

Some might know him as the lead singer for Hootie & the Blowfish; others might know him as country artist Darius Rucker, but everyone knows this guy can belt out a tune.

Rucker and fellow Hootie & the Blowfish members started to form the band at the University of South Carolina during their college days and have been successful, selling more than 25 million albums. The band's album, "Cracked Rear View," went platinum 16 times and produced many well-known hits, including "Only Wanna Be With You."

While the band takes a break, Rucker is branching out into country music on his own with his album "Learn to Live," which was released in September.

"It feels great," said Rucker about going solo.

His transition into country music is anything but unexpected.

Rucker said he grew up in the Lowcountry listening to country music his whole life and his record was something he had been talking about for years.

Rucker is trying to make a name for himself in the country music world, though some may say he has already arrived.

His first three singles, "Don't Think I Don't Think About It," "It Won't be Like This for Long" and "Alright" have stayed in the top radio charts and have gotten major play. His album even debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. His songs are filled with universal emotions and give fans the ability to relate to Rucker through his music.

And Rucker wouldn't have it any other way.

"I don't make music for critics," Rucker said, "I make music for people to like it."

But behind it all, Rucker was a kid who grew up in West Ashley, hoping his dreams would someday come true.

"Anybody can make it," Rucker said, "I'm living proof that you can."

Charleston still holds a special place in his heart and it seems fitting that when he first heard one of his country songs on the radio, he was in Charleston.

"It was wild," he said. "I couldn't stop laughing when I heard it."

Rucker said his favorite part of Charleston is the people who live there, so it makes sense for him to want to give back to the Charleston community.

Rucker and fellow country artist Dierks Bentley will play the annual Homegrown Concert on Aug. 13 at the Family Circle Tennis Center on Daniel Island.

Hootie & the Blowfish began the annual event in 2003 to raise money and school supply donations for Charleston school children in the midst of budget cuts.

To date, the group has raised about $300,000. Though Rucker is busy pursuing his country career, he did not want to miss out on the opportunity to give back to his hometown.

"My mom always taught me to always give back," Rucker said. "That's what I try to do."

Ticket prices vary depending on seating and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.