Mark Houser & Bluegrass Drive

TOUR DATES

MUSIC

TRACK LISTING

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

I STILL BELIEVE IN THE BLOOD (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)– Tena and I were traveling out west, visiting with Wayne Newton in Las Vegas, Alan Osmond in Provo, Utah, and Gary Morris is Pagosa Springs, Colorado, interviewing them for a potential project. It was in Colorado that the idea came to me for this song. I held on to it for a few days then called my long-time songwriting buddy, Jimmy Bilbrey to share the idea. He nailed the choruses with al of the names of all of these old hymns and changed them with each verse making this one a really fun song.

I WILL STAND (Mark Houser)- This song was a blessing. It came along when all the other songs on the project were finished. The back story- After Rhonda Vincent sang on Jesus Sweet Jesus she posted about it on Facebook. My friends Linda Davis and Lang Scott saw the post and called me the next morning to pray with me about my cancer diagnosis. It was a touching prayer and afterwards I said it would be nice to get the Scott Family on this project. Linda said, “Don’t threaten me with a good time!” So, I wrote this song, beginning July 11, 2024, and finished it on July 14. I sent it to them, and they agreed to do it. Rich Herring and I mapped it out and put a guitar-vocal together on Wednesday, July 17, and Linda and Lang came in on July 20, to put their vocals down. God has blessed me with great Christian friends.

GOSPEL TRAIN (Mark Houser)- I had this idea ‘Get on the Gospel Train’ for an up-tempo bluegrass song and held on to it, in the back of my mind, for a couple of years. After I was diagnosed with a terminal illness, I decided to pull the idea out and finish the song, making it the title track of this bluegrass gospel project. The song is simple lyrically, with a driving melody, which encourages everyone to jump aboard the train to eternal life promised by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I received another blessing when Mark Fain, who played bass on this project and on my previous one, and who produced a number one album on Darin and Brooke Aldridge helped me to bring them aboard for this song. What great voices!

WHERE YOU CHOSE TO GO (Mark Houser- Bill Whyte)- I had written with Bill Whyte once before and I walked into an almost completed song called OVER, OVER YOU. He had done his homework and had a perfect bluegrass song that was tailor-made for me. I never got to record it, but I loved the song. For this later writing session, I returned the favor and brought this idea. Bill loved it and we took off. The final verse sealed it for me, “I have walked where the briars grow; Been through hell that only heaven knows; Sometimes our path can be a windin’ road; It’s not where you’ve been but where you choose to go.” You know, no matter what road we are on we can choose to change course so long as we are still breathing.

WHEN THE WHEELS FALL OFF (Mark Houser)- I envisioned a story where a pioneering family were on their way to church when through a calamity of events the wheels fell off the carriage. The twist in the story is that the grandpa of the singer got this story from his grandpa who was baptized on that day. I almost did not include this song on the Gospel Train project. It was a late addition, and I am glad we included it.

JESUS SWEET JESUS (Mark Houser- John Houser)- This song is more like a 19th Century or early 20th Century hymn, the kind of song you would find in the old hymn books of my youth. My dad started this song in the early 1960’s when he wrote this chorus. He would sing it to my sister and I when we were children. I remembered this melody and the chorus lyrics into adulthood. I asked him one day where the song came from and he said he had written it. I asked if it had verses, and he said, “No why don’t write some. “However, each time I tried, it just did not seem to work, until on April 5, 2019, when, on the day my dad passed in such a dignified manner in a Knoxville, Tennessee rehab center, I sat there thinking of this song. On my drive back to my home in Livingston, Tennessee the lyrics came to my mind and this time it felt right. When Rhonda Vincent agreed to sing with me on this it exceeded my wildest dreams. Rhonda had sung with me before on my first album and sang with Mark Conklin and John Berry on a song I had written called Oh Lonely Day on Mark Conklin’s album The Gospel According to Mark.

RICH (Mark Houser)- Rich was an idea I had for years and almost wrote with various hitmakers but each time the songwriting appointment fell through. I wrote it as a ballad initially but then one day decided to try and change the melody and speed up the tempo just a little bit. The power in the story was always there and finally it felt right. If it were not for your money, you’d be rich, the homeless man tells the millionaire. In the Bridge we learn he was not actually a homeless man but instead was an angel. The Bible tells us we entertain angels unaware. Have you ever thought how rich we could be if we did not base our riches on money?

NUMBERS ON A STONE (Mark Houser- Mike Webb)- I wrote this song with my cousin Mike Webb. We attended church together at the time and both of us led the singing about once a month. I invited him over to write one evening and this song was the result. When our time on earth ends, I think we all want to be more than just numbers on a stone. Our life is so much more than just the date of our birth and the date of our death. “I don’t know how much time I’ve got; It’s tickin’ down like a wound-up clock; And it’s sure got me thinkin’ about who I am; How will they remember me; Lord helps me be who I should be; And pass a little something down to them.”

ONCE UPON A TIME (Mark Houser)- Once Upon a Time came about one afternoon in the form of a poem, I was writing, imaging a world turned upside down. The poem took some Biblical truths about the Lion lying down with the Lamb and continued to what it might be like when everything we know ends and the secret door is opened to Once Upon a Time. The unusual thing about this song is that once I wrote the poem, I picked up the guitar and sang it to this melody, typically both words and music come at the same time for me, but this song is different in that regard.

SINSURANCE (Mark Houser- Wood Newton)- This is a fun song that I am blessed to be a co-writer on. Wood Newton brought this idea to a writing session, and I thought it was a clever idea. We all need some sinsurance to help us get to where we go when this life is over. Sin can creep in anytime the first verse tells us, and isn’t that the truth? But we have a place to go to protect against sin taking over our lives. As the song says, “Better get some sinsurance, it’ll save you in the end.”

MARY (Mark Houser)– I sat down with my guitar and just started to tell this story about a wheelchair bound girl and a young boy who befriended her. Their relationship became a life-long connection. This idea stemmed from a friend’s situation. His son had recently been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, and the fear was he would never be able to walk. I began to image a story about a young girl confined to a wheelchair and how others might treat her, especially while school aged. Her pain shows through in the words “I took her to the Senior prom, and everybody stared.

She said, “They don’t really see me they only see my chair.” The young man can see Mary, dancing in his dreams!

LIGHTS ON THE MISSISSIPPI (Mark Houser)– This song is a melancholy song about the passage of time. It is about holding on the wonderful times even as time slips away. The song stresses our vulnerabilities and the fact that we are just passing lights on God’s great Mississippi of time. Just fleeting lights that shared experiences for a brief period in the annuls of history.

WE PREACH OUR FUNERAL(Mark Houser)– As a preacher I had conducted several funerals and one thing I had heard from other preachers and had repeated several times was that the person preached their own funeral by how they lived. I finally decided to write a song that incorporated that thought. It is true in so many cases that we can see through how a person lives their life just what type of person they are. ‘By the way we treat our friends and the way we treat our foes’ is so true. I included my prayer in the bridge- “Lord helps us to be, the better us more frequently.”

OH, LONELY DAY (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin)– This song for written for The Gospel According to Mark project which was released in early 2024 by Mark D. Conklin. Grammy winners John Berry and Rhonda Vincent were featured in the song on that project. I included a bluegrass version of it here as it is one of my favorite songs I have ever written. Mark called me at the beginning of Covid and had this idea about a concept album and we wrote every Monday night for months on Zoom, with him in New Jersey and me in Tennessee. I had five songs on that project that I co-wrote with Mark, and I love that album. This song, about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, is a powerful ballad originally written in 6/8 time we changed the melody a little bit here to make it fit the bluegrass project. I do not think the powerful story is lost in translation. We owe everything to Jesus for his sacrifice for us!

LYRICS

I STILL BELIEVE IN THE BLOOD

(Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey) 2:42

Surrounded by love back in my childhood

(When both of my parents were young

I’m older now than they were back then

But I still sing the hymns of faith we sung

CHORUS

Amazing Grace, In the sweet bye and bye

On the Wings of a snow-white dove

Here I am down on bended knees

Cause I still believe in the blood

Ma’am taught me all about Jesus

Daddy preached the word both day and night

That little country church is where I found the Lord

As the congregation sang I saw the light

2nd CHORUS

How Great Thou Art and Beulah Land

I’ve been washed ‘neath the crimson flood

Here I am down on bended knees

Yeah, I still believe in the blood

BRIDGE

Jesus died on Calvary to ransom you and me

3rd CHORUS

The Old Rugged Cross and What A Friend

Whosoever Will May Come

Here I am down on bended knees

Cause I believe in the blood

TAG

I still believe in the blood

I WILL STAND

(Mark Houser) 3:01

I will stand, I will stand

On the solid rock

of the great I am

I will stand

I will stand, I will stand

On the faith of God’s

unchanging hand

I will stand

Bridge

Jesus my Savior my hope rests in Thee

I lay down my burdens at your feet (at your feet)

I will stand, I will stand

On the promise of

the promised land

I will stand

Instrumental

Repeat Bridge

I will stand, I will stand

On the solid rock

of the great I am

I will stand

On the solid rock

of the great I am

I will stand

GOSPEL TRAIN

(Mark Houser) 2:29

If you have been seeking

For someone to believe in

The train is waiting just round the bend

Come on get movin’

Find peace of mind when

You climb aboard, and praise the Lord

On the gospel train

Chorus

Get on the gospel train

On the gospel train

Jesus is the engineer

We all wear his name

If you lookin’ for redemption

And you’re longin’ to be saved

The door is always open

On the gospel train

Instrumental

Leave all your earthly worries

Come running in a hurry

And join in with the faithful for the ride

You won’t regret it

Not for a minute

Sing his praises everyday

Won’t you come inside

Repeat Chorus

The door is always open

On the gospel train

WHERE YOU CHOOSE TO GO

(Mark Houser-Bill Whyte) 3:05

I’ve been washed in the water and the blood

I’ve been strong to my beliefs and I’ve slipped up

I’ve been on fire and Lord I’ve been stone cold

It’s not where you’ve been but where you choose to go

If you’ve seen hard times and made a few mistakes

Don’t give up on yourself it’s not too late

I’ve been there and one thing I’ve come to know

It’s not where you’ve been but where you choose to go

Chorus

It’s not where you spent your past

Or the you, you leave behind

It’s all about what lies ahead

Thank God we still have time

Instrumental

Repeat Chorus

I have walked where the briars grow

Been through hell that only heaven knows

Sometimes our path can be a windin’ road

It’s not where you’ve been but where you choose to go

Sometimes our path can be a windin’ road

It’s not where you’ve been

but where you choose to go

It’s not where you’ve been

but where you choose to go

WHEN THE WHEELS FALL OFF

(Mark Houser) 3:25

They were on their way to church one Sunday mornin’

Back in the day when no one owned a car

The horse got scared and the carriage hit a brush pile

The axle broke and the church was just too far

So the old man took his Bible

And he preached with all his heart

CHORUS

When the wheels fall off

And you’re feelin’ lost

And the road is long

That leads you home

(Put your/If you) trust in God

You can climb back up

You can bear your cross

When the wheels fall off

His youngest son was listenin’ to that sermon

It was one that never left him ‘til he died

And the windin’ river runnin’ by that dirt road

Is the water where that little boy was baptized

Then they fixed up that old buggy

And was back at home by night

CHORUS

My grandpa got this story from his grandpa

Who was the little boy who found the Lord that day

And it helped me learn a lesson I can pass along

When tough times get in the way

Hit your knees, bow your head, close your eyes and pray

CHORUS

Trust in God

Climb back up

Bear your cross

When the wheels fall off

JESUS SWEET JESUS

(Mark Houser- John Houser) 3:49

When I was wandering

Through the dark valley

I saw a light that

Welcomed my soul

My heart was filled with

The gift of salvation

And Jesus was calling

Sinner come home

Chorus

Jesus sweet Jesus

I love my Jesus

He gave his life

On Calvary’s tree

Jesus sweet Jesus

I love my Jesus

He gave his life

that I might be free

Instrumental

I pray for wisdom

To help others find him

To tell them his story

In peace and in love

And I pray for the day I’ll

Be standing in glory

In that bright mansion

In heaven above

Chorus

Jesus sweet Jesus

I love my Jesus

He gave his life

on Calvary’s tree

Jesus sweet Jesus

I love my Jesus

He gave his life

that I might be free

RICH

(Mark Houser) 3:23

He was sitting on a park bench on the busy side of town

A millionaire just sorting through his thoughts

When an old man in the clothes he’d slept in happened to walk by

I glanced over and I listened as they talked

The old man said excuse me Sir can I give you some advice

The millionaire just stared down at his phone

The old man kept on talking like he was living on borrowed time

He said I see things that you will never know, see

CHORUS

There is someone who would give you their last dime

Or if you needed just to talk they’d give you time

There’s a million things in this old world a dollar just can’t fix

If it wasn’t for your money you’d be rich

He said people treat you differently when you have money in the bank

There’ll be those who hang around to help themselves

But when you haven’t got a penny, man, that’s when you’ll really know

There are kind souls who will offer you their help

BRIDGE

He said I used to chase the same dreams that you chase

But trust me it’s what you give not what you take

I may seem like a simple man at first

But Sir, this is how we angels get the word to folks on earth

CHORUS

TAG

When I got up to walk away his words hit me like a brick

It wasn’t for our money

I know it may sound funny

But if it wasn’t for our money we’d be rich

NUMBERS ON A STONE

(Mark Houser- Mike Webb) 4:03

When I saw that old tobacco sign

Just off highway 29

That’s when I knew that I was almost home

That old house has since come down

A parking lot covers up the ground

Where I raised and where my heart belongs

CHORUS

Time is swift and life is sweet

Days go by like sifted wheat

I turn around and wonder (3-man where have they flown) where they’ve flown

Prayers go up and blessing flow

Let’s all be thankful here below

Before our days are gathered up and gone

Let’s all be more than numbers on a stone

I don’t know how much time I’ve got

It’s tickin’ down like a wound up clock

It’s sure got me thinkin’ about who I am

How will they remember me

Lord help me be who I should be

And pass a little something down to them

CHORUS

BRIDGE

I’ll take that little dash that’s on that stone for all it’s worth

Between the numbers I’ll leave something down here on this earth

REPEAT CHORUS

ONCE UPON A TIME

(Mark Houser) 3:39

The most are least

The rich are poor

The eagle crawls

The tortoise soars

The crawdads roar

The lions chirp

The first are last

The last are first

Chorus

When everything is nothing more

And what we seek we find

Beyond that secret open door

To once upon a time

The mountains sink

The oceans rise

The cost is cheap

The price is high

The fountains bleed

The water’s froze

The snow is fire

The candle cold

Repeat Chorus

The lame can walk

The strong lie down

The blind can see

The lost are found

The heartbeat stops

The spirit parts

The start will end

The end will start

Repeat Chorus

To once upon a time

SINSURANCE

(Mark Houser- Wood Newton) 2:28

Sin can creep in anytime

And get a hold on you

We may try to fight alone

And that’s so hard to do

But there’s a place we can go

When we fold our hands in prayer

To give us some protection

‘Til we make our way up there

Chorus

Better get some Sinsurance

Take some good advice

Never get the term

What you need is whole life

I’m not trying to sell you

I’m just tellin’ you like a friend

Better get some Sinsurance

It’ll save you in the end

Check your worries and your cares

And leave them all behind

I guarantee this policy

Will bring you peace of mind

You can’t buy it with your money

So, you can keep your cash

Forgiveness is what you need

All you have to do is ask

Repeat Chorus

MARY

(Mark Houser) 4:25

Mary made the most of what she had here in this world

She had lived inside a chair with wheels since she was a just girl

We met at school and we became the very best of friends

When I close my eyes and I still see the day it all began

We had to write a paper for Ms. Avery’s science class

I went over to her house, we got right down to the task

She was smart and she was pretty, treated everybody kind

And today, when I heard the news my mind raced in time

Chorus

The last time I saw Mary

She looked like a movie star

Her eyes as big as diamonds

And a smile to warm my heart

Time cannot erase that picture

From my memory

And the next I see Mary

She’ll be dancin’ in my dreams

I took her to the Senior prom and everybody stared

She said “They don’t really see me they only see my chair”

We laughed and watched our classmates, dance across the floor

When I took her home I kissed her before I wheeled her through the door

Repeat Chorus

I ended up in college a couple hundred miles away

We kept in touch and I talked to her almost every day

When her mama called this morning, through the tears she cried

She said Mary lost her battle and this was my reply

Repeat Chorus

Tag

The next I see Mary

She’ll be dancin’ in my dreams

LIGHTS ON THE MISSISSIPPI

(Mark Houser) 4:01

The moon shines down the wind picks up

The night is young and so are we

The river flowing ever onward

And we are lost in its mystery

We are just lights’ on’ the Mississippi

Years go by, time moves on

And in a flash we are grown

We still gaze across the water

Dream our dreams that never die

For we are lights on the Mississippi

CHORUS

The muddy water holds its secrets

And our imagination yearns

For the truth like those who came before us

What lessons will we learn

Let’s take it in, just take it slow

Wherever this journey goes

For we are lights on the Mississippi

The clock ticks down the hands speed up

We grow old as time rolls on

We’ll look back on our memories

As we navigate for home

We are lights on the Mississippi

REPEAT CHORUS

Just fleeting lights on God’s Mississippi

WE PREACH OUR FUNERAL

(Mark Houser) 2:44

We preach our funeral in a crowd

And when we’re alone

By the way we treat our friends

And the way we treat our foes

And when that day shall come

They cover us with dirt

We preach our funeral

By the way we live on earth

Do we treat folks with respect

Are we kind to everyone

Did we represent our Savior well

By all the things we’ve done

Will people say we’re friendly

Or just some pompous jerk

We preach our funeral

By the way we live on earth

Lord help us to be

The better us more frequently

Did we show someone the way

By the example that we set

Or were we more a hindrance

To the people we have met

Money counts for nothing

When we consider our lives worth

We preach our funeral

By the way we live on earth

May we find the time to spend more time

With those who have it worse

May we live life unselfishly

Put God and others first

Every word and action matters

Each day is one more verse

We preach our funeral

By the way we live on earth

We preach our funeral

By the way we live on earth

OH LONELY DAY

(Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) 3:18

On the road to that hill

I felt your pain, I feel it still

Oh lord, my lord

Forgive me

I walked behind,I was afraid

I watched them take you away

Oh lord, my lord

Forgive me

Chorus

My God, My God

What have we done to you?

On this, oh, lonely day

Hung by the nails high on the cross

Bearing our sins, bearing our shame

On this, oh, lonely day

They pierced your side, they cursed your name

They laid you down in a cold, cold, grave

Oh lord, my lord

Forgive me

Repeat Chorus

My God, My God

What have we done to you?

On this, oh, lonely day

CREDITS

Recorded at:

Watershed Studio, Nashville, Tennessee

Wurld Studio

Vocals

Mark Houser

Fiddle/ Viola/ Dobro/ Banjo

Wanda Vick

Guitar/ Mandolin/ Banjo

Shaun Richardson

Guitar/ Ukulele/ Synth Cello/ Background Vocals

Rich Herring

Fiddle/ Mandolin

Andy Leftwich

Bass

Mark Fain

Background Vocals

Keith Sewell

Special Guests:

Rhonda Vincent, Guest Vocals- Jesus Sweet Jesus

Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Guest Vocals- Gospel Train

Linda Davis, Guest Vocals- I Will Stand

Lang Scott, Guest Vocals- I Will Stand

Produced by:

Mark Houser and Rich Herring

Engineered by:

Rich Herring

Mixed by:

Rich Herring

Mastered by:

Rich Herring

Photography:

Tena Rogers

Album Cover Design:

Mark Clayton

Stylist:

Tena Rogers

Voting Member:

International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA),

Gospel Music Association (GMA) The Dove Awards

The Recording Academy (The Grammys)

Rhonda Vincent appears curtesy of Upper Management Records

Darin and Brooke Aldridge appear curtesy of Billy Blue Records

THANK YOU

Thank you to all of those who encouraged me as I set out to make my 3rd studio album while going through cancer treatments. It has been both a challenge and a labor of love. Thanks to Dr. Kevin Michael Gibson, at Vanderbilt’s Ingram Cancer Center, for keeping me well enough to complete this record and for being a bluegrass fan! Special thanks to Tena Rogers for taking care of me and being a great partner throughout this ordeal. I love you!

Thank you to the fans who love gospel bluegrass music music, especially those at Dudney’s Hill and Morrison Creek, two churches of Christ where I have been privileged to share the pulpit for the fast few years.

Also, a special thanks goes to Rich Herring, who has been with me on this ride for all 3 albums, having produced each of my projects. Thanks to the co-writers whom I love and respect, Bill Whyte, Jimmy Bilbrey, Mark Conklin, Wood Newton, Mike Webb, and my late father John Houser.

I am blessed to have so many friends in the music business and I want to say a very special thank you to Rhonda Vincent, Linda Davis, Lang Scott and Darin & Brooke Aldridge for singing on this project. Your talents are amazing!

TRACK LISTING

Long Tall Pines (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI) 3:00
Ain’t No Cure (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI) 3:10
Lester (Mark Houser) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) 3:08
Daddy’s Week (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Hickory Chicken Music (BMI) 3:36
Fall of Dixie (Mark Houser-Mark Schaffel) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Zarf Music (BMI) 3:10
Willow Tree (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI) 3:19
Americanaville (Mark Houser-Rich Herring) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Sky Green Music (ASCAP) 3:04
I’m A King (Mark Houser) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) 3:32
Ride (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI) 4:10
Trail of Tears (Mark Houser-Mark Conklin) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Jive Buddha Music (ASCAP) 4:24
World Renown (Mark Houser-Rich Herring) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Sky Green Music (ASCAP) 3:19
Things I Love The Most (Mark Houser-Wayne Sells- Mike Powell) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) 3:13
I Need A Friend (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen-Delnora Reed) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI); Delnora’s Publishing (ASCAP) 3:38

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

Long Tall Pines (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen)
I took this idea to Reed Nielsen on one of our Tuesday writing sessions. I had been thinking about how people were afraid and scared of mountain people, especially in Appalachia. Well, my family came from that area. My great-great-great grandfather Jacob Houser was the first known settler of the Elkmont community, in mountains of East Tennessee, and he has a creek, Jake’s Creek, named after him that runs near Gatlinburg in Sevier County. The family was later forced to move from the land that eventually became The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

I knew mountain people to be tough but honest and fair and their homes were filled with love and family pride. This song is about that aspect of living in the mountains. While we were recording the album, my father passed away and I remembered an old cassette recording from the spring of 1976 when I had interviewed him for my high school senior project. He had been present the day that President Franklin D. Roosevelt came to dedicate the park on September 2, 1940. He was five years old and often recalled the story of that day and his fear that war was all around us and that our President was in a wheelchair. It is funny how a five-year-old mind thinks.

Anyway, I took an idea from the first record I had ever purchased with my own money, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Mr. Bojangles and decided to use my father’s recitation as an intro for the record as my tribute to him. I purchased the single of Mr. Bojangles in March 1971 some 50 years ago at a little record store in downtown Maryville, Tennessee and I still have it.

Ain’t No Cure (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen)
This song sprang from a melody that Reed was playing when I arrived one day to write. He had no lyrics and I asked him to just keep playing the rift as it was inspiring me emotionally. I had just recently seen a story about some parents who had been arrested for child abuse and as is typical, the case received wide-spread media coverage. In television news interviews, the neighbors were shocked that this couple could commit such hideous crimes and each one interviewed thought so highly of the couple. I was thinking if they only had known what the children knew.

The entire song took roots from that tidbit of information. It is a sad song but then at least the children are saved in the end and the parents get what was coming to them. Child abuse is a serious matter. If you know or suspect abuse, please reach out to the authorities. This world is filled with evil, and we owe it to the most vulnerable among us, the children, to see that they have a chance!

I love the minor key here and the pickers really played their hearts out on this one. The marriage of the dobro and the fiddle are haunting. I remain in awe of the musicians that can make you feel the story!

Lester (Mark Houser)
This is a fun song reminiscing on my bluegrass roots. I have told the story many times of listening to Lester Flatt as a young boy. Lester’s mother and my great-grandmother were sisters. Their last name was Haney. Lester was born in Overton County, Tennessee and I worked for years to get a marker on the Courthouse Square here in the county where I live. We finally made that happen on June 17, 2017.

In Jake Lambert’s book A Biography of Lester Flatt: The Good Things Out Weigh the Bad, my grandpa Charlie Webb is mentioned on page two. Charlie married Lester’s first cousin Vallie Burroughs, my grandmother. Charlie’s sister Bessie married Lester’s brother, Leonard.

So, of course, every Saturday we watched the Flatt and Scruggs Show and then occasionally we would see them on the Beverly Hillbillies as well. To my young mind they were certainly stars. Then when they won a Grammy Award in 1968 for Best Country Performance, Duo or Group, Vocal or Instrumental for the song Foggy Mountain Breakdown, I was hooked. Once old enough, I began buying up all the albums and singles I could. I always loved the format of the TV shows with T. Tommy Cutrer talking about Martha White Self-Rising Flour. I also loved how they always did a gospel tune and I decided I would do the same thing if I ever recorded an album.

This song springs from those days in my youth when I would watch them perform and dream of having that opportunity.
Flash forward, I met Ray Seckler through a couple of friends of mine, Brent Shelton and Larry Evans. Ray traveled with me to see his father Curly Seckler a few years ago. I had a great two hour-long interview with Curly, who told me many stories of the traveling days of the Foggy Mountain Boys and later the Nashville Grass. Curly was the last surviving member of the band. I intended to use it on this record, but my car was broken into, ironically, in Sparta, Tennessee, Lester’s hometown. The recording device was taken.

I set up another meeting with Curly but in between those two meetings he had suffered a stroke. He was well into his 90’s. The damily had given me permission to use anything I had recorded. You will hear his voice at the end of this song saying, “Pretty good.” He follows Tennessee Hall of Fame broadcaster and sometime Grand Ole Opry host Philip Gibbons using the famous line “Goodness gracious that’s good.”

Daddy’s Week (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough)
The idea for this song came from Jimmy Bilbrey, a long-time songwriting partner of mine. Jimmy and I have written 100’s of songs and our good friend Jerry Bumbalough also wrote with us on many occasions. The three of us opened an office on Music Row in 2002 together and while we moved around a few times we settled in a place on 18th Avenue. Those were some fun times with many late nights, writing at all hours of the night. We would write and pitch songs while making some life-long connections and friendships. Casey Beathard, Craig Martin, Rodney Atkins, Kendall Marvel, my producer Rich Herring, Karyn Rochelle, Arlo Gilliam, Mark Shaffel, Mark Conklin, A.J. Croce, Shauna and Keifer Thompson, Buddy Hyatt, Randy Houser and Wayne Brayfield, to mention only a few. Music Row eventually changed and we moved in 2014.

Jimmy and I had written the bluegrass hit Seven Miles From Wichita; the bluegrass song Hard Rain, and a country song that Jack Greene sang on the Grand Ole Opry, Red, White and Blue Christmas during this time. We would play the Bluebird Café to sold out crowds each time we played there. Jerry wrote with us on many other thought provoking songs, that I hope to record one day.

One of the best songs we wrote during that time was Daddy’s Week. Both Jimmy and I had been divorced single parents and we could relate to the heartache of this song. We also wanted to paint the mother as experiencing similar feelings when the children were with the father. I think many can relate to “I miss those tiny voice and the sound of little feet, baseball gloves and goodnight hugs and daddy I can’t sleep; Hide and seek, now don’t you peek, and catch me if you can; now it’s seven days of being strong until it’s daddy’s week again.”

Fall of Dixie (Mark Houser-Mark Schaffel)
Fall of Dixie is a melody that came to me while waiting in line at a McDonald’s drive-thru window. It is the second song that I’ve had recorded that grew from that same McDonald’s drive-thru in Livingston, Tennessee. The first was recorded by country music entertainer and friend Rodney Atkins. The song was called God Only Knows. That song was his idea but while waiting in line one evening I just heard the words to the chorus in my head. I called him and we got together and later added Ted Hewitt to help finish it.

Fall of Dixie was a melody I just kept hearing without any real words until I subconsciously took an experience from my youth. It’s about growing up in a small town and playing ball and meeting girls. It’s about how the faces may change but the experiences not so much. Mark Schaffel, a great songwriter whom I have written with many times liked the idea and he and I finished it slowly and methodically working through every line. It is a bit unusual perhaps in the way that it flows but Mark and I had a good time with it. It was written on piano and then we added a banjo. Mark did a full demo of the song and made it come to life for me. We used that same formula and expounded on it in the studio.

I regret that Mark and I have not gotten many opportunities to write recently and am hopeful that one day we can take a stab at it again. Some of my favorite songs I have ever written are with Mark but few would fit the style of this type of project. Maybe one day I’ll get the chance to record more of them.

Willow Tree (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen)
This song could be called GINNY: The Missing Years. I had this idea after watching the 1994 movie Forrest Gump, starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and Gary Sinise, for the twentieth time and then combining the story line with another movie from the same era. A movie with Jeff Bridges, Kiefer Sutherland, Nancy Travis, and Sandra Bullock called The Vanishing from 1993. My mind was racing to all the places and all the heartache and debris left in the wake of any place Ginny may have wandered during her long periods of disappearance from Forrest’s life. I imaged her carefree attitude costing others more than just money. I told Reed about my thoughts and the first couple of lines, “Clyde had a hammer and a half-wrecked heart, when he left Alabama in an old Skylark, lost Ginny by the river up in Tennessee so he nailed her picture to the willow tree.”

He was inspired to work with me on the rest of it. I added my own twist to the story for the surprise ending. Reed loved this song and right up until his death he asked me if I would record this one. Here’s to you buddy, I hope you are smiling in heaven!

Americanaville (Mark Houser-Rich Herring)
This is a song about my hometown, Livingston, Tennessee. The town is billed as the Home of Live Americana Music. I knew many of the locals in the scene from singer-songwriter-author-producer-mentor Jim Bowman to Jack Stoddart, the producer of Jammin’ At Hippie Jack’s, the PBS series. The song is about growing up in America and being proud to be an American. We are currently working on a documentary series called Americanville. The key is that anywhere can be Americanaville. “It’s who you are, it’s how you feel, Americanaville.”

I took this project to Rich Herring with an idea of using this as a commercial song celebrating America. We cut this one separately from the rest of the album. We then worked to make it fit this project and it became the title cut.

I believe in America, the American Dream, the power of the United States Constitution, and that this is one nation under God. I want to see our nation strong and unified. I do not waste time on prejudice of any kind. It is such a waste of time to stereotype others. I believe in the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., “Judge not on the color of one’s skin but on the contents of their character.” Amen.

I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America!

I’m A King (Mark Houser)
This song tells the story of a man, the king of his castle, who lost the queen and wonders why the King can’t just have whatever he wants. Life doesn’t work that way. I had been listening to a lot of Kris Kristofferson songs and Darby’s Castle was haunting me. My buddy Paul Brewster, who sang on both of my albums, although he is better known for singing with Ricky Skaggs and the Osborne Brothers, had recorded Kristofferson’s song on his solo project. It was a great recording of a great song. I mean what good is a castle if you have no one to share it with? “This house is like a castle, so spacious yet so dread; though I have things, I have nothing, without you here.”

Life was meant to be shared and the Bible tells us it is not good for man to be alone. The King in this story is realizing those words are fitting even for a King. I wrote this one night in my man cave, just me and a guitar. That is still the best therapy for me, alone time with my guitar. After all, I’m a King.

Ride (Mark Houser-Reed Nielsen)
This is the most different song I have ever recorded. We debated using the song on this project and it finally came down to taking a chance and reaching out for something fresh. I write songs in many genres as I just love music. The story is about two people who split and each of them are ‘riding’ on their own, quite different, way. The bridge of the song pulls it all together “Love sometimes is the kind you reach for, wavin’ in the fragile wind; When love unwinds it’s like twine on a ripcord, you can’t put it back in.”

Sometimes too much water gets under the bridge and it is simply impossible to go back, yet that doesn’t make the pain any less when you genuinely loved someone.

“They ride through the night in a cloud of sleepin’; reachin’ new heights, countin’ new sheep and buildin’ up days in the toils of this ole life. They’re totin’ their fears in a makeshift knapsack, cussin’ the tears the kind you’re supposed hold back, swearing’ that they’d never let anyone see them cry; just ride.”

I took this idea to Reed and it liked that it was up tempo and he made it more up tempo. By the time it was finished we knew we had something we both liked but we had no idea who we might get to record it. That’s why I included it here. I hope you enjoy this one as much as we did while writing it.

Trail of Tears (Mark Houser-Mark Conklin)
Mark Conklin is a Jersey boy. I’m from Tennessee. We sometimes see the world differently, I mean he loves the Yankees and I, well, I don’t. We were introduced by sometimes Grand Ole Opry host, Philip Gibbons. We discovered we had quite a bit in common particularly our love for history. We wrote the song When Standin’ Up Stood For Something on my first album, Uneven Road. The song was described by one radio DJ as the first bluegrass civil rights song. The song was about Rosa Parks and the civil rights movement of the 50’s and 60’s.

We researched the Trail of Tears and began writing as accurate of a description as we could from the point of view of the Native Americans. The story follows the story of the Seminole Indians and the fact that they never surrendered. The Seminole War dates included in the song actually happened. Mark and I hope we captured the feelings of those adversely affected by the war. The musicians made this song take on a new life.

World Renown (Mark Houser-Rich Herring)
This song was written tongue in cheek about a man who is the center of his own little universe. Having been called a narcissist by a person whom I consider to be a narcissist, I came home and wrote this song exploiting my belief in my own incredible charisma. It was meant to be a funny song with tidbits of truth attached. I told Rich that there was something about this song I just really liked for this project, but it just wasn’t quite finished. He added the line ‘micro reality,” which just brought it all home to me. Rich added the unusual licks on the instruments as well.

My dad was supposed to record the line “He’s a meteorologist,” but when he fell ill on the Sunday before we were to record on that Tuesday, he never had the chance to record it before his passing. I asked my son, Matthan to fill in for the line. At the end of the song my daughter Hannah who had sang in the choir on Lead Me Home, from the Uneven Road album added the word ‘famous’ at the end. Then I talked the Walter Trace Crazies to join in and add their own ‘famous’ yell at the end. The group is made up of many of the kids that lived in my grandchildren’s neighborhood at the time. A neighborhood much like a modern day ‘Mayberry.’ My grandchildren: Matti Houser, Huttson Houser, and Jett Houser, were joined by Marlee Beaty, Mylee Beaty, Meeka Beaty, and Bryce Burnett. They did a great job!

Things I Love The Most (Mark Houser-Wayne Sells- Mike Powell)
This song was one that resulted from a long-discussed co-writing venture with a couple of educators in Overton County who are also talented musicians. Wayne Sells is a long-time friend of mine as his father had worked for my father for 30 years. His dad, David, was a great bluegrass guitarist in his own right and is the man whom I bought my first guitar from. Wayne is an excellent base player who has played with me on multiple live shoes. Mike is the Director of Vol State Community College-Livingston campus and a songwriter I had known for probably 20 years.

This song is about how perspectives change as we age. The things we hated as a child become things that we would love to do again. The third verse hits on the theme of while we sometimes struggled to pay attention in church services as a youth that we realize the importance of having a proper relationship with Jesus as an adult. “The things I liked the least are the things I love the most.”

I Need A Friend (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen-Delnora Reed)
This song means a great deal to me personally. While every line is pretty much how I have felt at some point in my life it took on new meaning when my dad told me a few weeks before he died that his favorite song used to be GO REST HIGH ON THAT MOUNTAIN until he listened to this one. He said he had a new favorite song. That meant the world to me and looking back it always will.

“Lord, please give me a little more time,” is something I feel sure everyone wishes for. We had no idea that my dad would soon pass after telling me how much he loved this song.

In dark days, in lonely days, we are have need of the Lord. Delnora Reed is a great friend and singer-songwriter and she accompanied me to Reed’s house for this writing session. The late Reed Nielsen as I have mentioned before is one of my favorite co-writers. I learned so much from Reed. He was an inspiration to me, the way he battled cancer and faced every day with a positive outlook. The world lost a great talent when he left this earth.

We decided to end this song with a beautiful rendition of What A Friend We Have In Jesus played by my producer Rich Herring on the gut string guitar. Rich is a guitar player om the legendary Little River Band and someone I’d want in my foxhole if I were going into battle. Love you man!

LYRICS

LONG TALL PINES
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) 3:00

(Recitation by John Houser from my high school senior class project in May, 1976) -My dad had taken us, as a family, on an outing to the Smoky Mountains, to see the President and see the dedication of the park-

Layla Sue went off to school
Thought she couldn’t wait to go
How she cried when she said goodbye
And the neighbors brought her meatloaf

Dr. Jones was headed home
When his car broke down at grandpa’s
He was so upset but we fixed his flat
And now we get free house calls

CHORUS
There are long tall pines
On the ridge that line
The road that winds folks back to us
Where flowers grow and water flows
Just the way our love does

It’s crystal clear those not from here
Are distant and afraid
They think we’re plain and kinda strange
‘Til they sit a spell in our shade

CHORUS
There are long tall pines
On the ridge that line
The road that winds folks back to us
Where flowers grow and water flows
Just the way our love does

INSTRUMENTAL

CHORUS
There are long tall pines
On the ridge that line
The road that winds folks back to us
Where flowers grow and water flows
Just the way our love does

AIN’T NO CURE
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) 3:10

She was a restless spirit in a tense existence
Where the lights stay on and the secrets sleep
And the neighbor’s say she’s the sweetest woman
But they don’t see what the children see

CHORUS
Maybe she’s lonely, maybe she’s hurtin
Maybe she’s crazy one thing’s for sure
I’m not making any excuses
For that kind of weakness there ain’t no cure

He’s a tireless worker says the factory foreman
A real go getter in his company clothes
And the preacher says he’s got it all together
But he don’t know what the children know

CHORUS
Maybe he’s lonely, maybe he’s hurtin
Maybe he’s crazy, one thing’s for sure
I’m not making any excuses
For that kind of anger there ain’t no cure

BRIDGE
One night in August, a patrol car visits
Shock fills up the neighbor
The children were cryin’ , the secret was dyin’
As mama and daddy’s heading up the river for good

CHORUS
I’ll bet they’re lonely, I hope they’re hurtin
I know they’re crazy, one thing’s for sure
I’m not making any excuses
For that kind of evil there ain’t no cure

LESTER
(Mark Houser) 3:08

-Trying to get situated-

I still hear the voice of Lester singin’
Friday’s on Grand Ole Opry
These memories will live with me forever
And take me back to Nashville, Tennessee

I learned to pick the guitar on a porch swing
Sayin’ howdy friends and neighbors with a smile
When the Foggy Mountain Boys were in their heyday
Lester sang and they all were pickin’ wild

CHORUS
And he’d sing
High, (high) high, low, (low) low
How low can you go
Low, (low) high, why, (why) why
Oh Me oh my, that’s just right

INSTRUMENTAL

From don’t get above your raisin’
To cryin’ my heart out over you,
Cabin on the hill, we’ll meet again sweetheart
Lester Flatt’s grass was always blue

INSTRUMENTAL

T. Tommy want you take us to the kitchen
Tell us ‘bout that good ole Martha White
And we’ll sing a little song out of the Bible
Before we have to tell these folks goodnight

REPEAT CHORUS

INSTRUMENTAL

That’s just right

-Goodness gracious it’s good-
-Pretty good-

DADDY’S WEEK
(Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough) 3:36

I dropped them off like every other Sunday
And watched their mama walk ‘em both inside
I drove away on empty trying not to fall apart
So this is what they call a compromise
Kevin left his football on the backseat
Katie said she left her Barbie in the den
I guess they’ll just have to do without them
‘Til it’s daddy’s week again

CHORUS
I’ii miss those tiny voices
And the sound of little feet
Baseball gloves and goodnight hugs
And “Daddy I can’t sleep”
Hide and seek, now don’t you peek
Catch me if you can
Now it’s seven days of bein’ strong
‘Til it’s daddy’s week again

There’s a girl down at the Walmart sellin’ jewelry
Every other Friday night I call her up
But I’m not sure I’m ready for her to meet the kids
I don’t know how she’d fit in with us
The judge that handed down this split decision
Oughta know by now nobody really wins
Their mom will feel the same pain that I’m feelin’
When it’s daddy’s week again

REPEAT CHORUS

TAG
Seven days of sleepless nights they seem to have no end
But I’ll be strong until it’s daddy’s week
‘Til it’s daddy’s week again

FALL OF DIXIE
(Mark Houser- Mark Schaffel) 3:10

This town shuts down for a football game on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie
Since our day ain’t much has changed on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie
Clock ticks down, girls are waitin’ radio on their favorite station
Man there just ain’t nothing like Friday night in the fall of Dixie

The band plays on, new faces same song

Man there just ain’t nothing like huddled ‘neath the stadium lights
When the air is cool and the moon is bright on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie

The lake sure makes for a nice retreat on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie
I still see you lookin’ at me that Friday night when you kissed me
We drove down to New Hope Levy guitar packed in the back of my Chevy
Girl there just ain’t nothing like Friday night in the fall of Dixie

Life goes on, new faces same song

No there just ain’t nothing like leaves of gold ‘neath a starry sky
Sittin’ on a blanket you and I on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie

INSTRUMENTAL

You’re still pretty as you used to be, the night that you when said yes to me
There ain’t never been nothing like Friday night in the fall of Dixie

We still win our share of games on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie
The more things change they stay the same on a Friday night in the fall of Dixie

WILLOW TREE
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) 3:19

Clyde had a hammer and a half wrecked heart
When he left Alabama in an old Skylark
He lost Jenny near the river up in Tennessee
So he nailed her picture to the willow tree

And he can’t remember no he can’t recall
Said he must’ve stumbled
Must’ve took a fall
When he woke up Jenny was gone
And the willow tree weeps on

He prayed and prayed she’d be found alive
How did she get lost, won’t you tell us Clyde
Yeah the lawman pressed him for a guilty plea
Still he weeps and he hammers on the willow tree

And he can’t remember no he can’t recall
Said he must’ve stumbled
Must’ve took a fall
When he woke up Jenny was gone
And the willow tree weeps on

Clyde took his life back in ’69
A year later came a van with a big peace sign
California plates filled with hippies wearin’ beads
And Jenny stepped out at the willow tree

And she can’t remember no she can’t recall
Why she didn’t tell Clyde, her mama or the law
Walked away to be wild and free
And not be tied down like a willow tree

The whole town grieved cause Clyde was gone
And the willow tree weeps on

AMERICANAVILLE
(Mark Houser-Rich Herring) 3:04

This old town square we drive circles around
Is a magnet for my memory and a home for my heart
I’ve dreamed dreams here in this proud old weathered town
Through comic books paper planes and baseball cards

CHORUS
Americanaville
Where time is standing still
Though the faces change
It’s always been the same and always will
No matter where you go
You can be right here at home
It’s who you are, it’s how you feel
Americanaville

Got my first job here
Sweeping out the hardware store
I’d ride my bike to work and back
And Mama sure was proud
Bought this guitar at the pawn shop on the corner
Learned a few old Dylan tunes and I learned to play ‘em loud

REPEAT CHORUS

BRIDGE
Stole my first kiss in the back row
At the Friday picture show
When they boarded that place up, it just felt colder
It’s been years since I drove by
But I still get butterflies
When I think about the statue of that soldier

REPEAT CHORUS

It’s who you are, it’s how you feel
Americanaville

I’M A KING
(Mark Houser) 3:32

I’m a King
Like any other King
I want everything I dream
And when I dream I see your face
As if you were my Queen

This house is like a castle
So spacious yet so dread
Though I have things, I have nothing
Without you here

I’m a King
Like any other King
I want everything I dream
And when I dream I see your face
As if you were my Queen

This world is at my fingertips
There’s nothing I can’t do
Except for the one thing I want the most
Cause I want to be with you

I’m Just a King
Like any other King
I want all the things I dream
And when I dream I see your face
As if you were my Queen

And when I dream I see your face
As if you were my Queen
© 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)

RIDE
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielson) 4:10

He’s ridin’ through the canyon chasin’ the sun
A lifetime of livin’ just another day done
Gathers up the lessons from the teacher unseen
Draggin’ in knowledge, spittin’ out dreams
Yeah he’s makin’ up things
Another two minutes from the ridge to the road
Another harsh fact that the river might hold
Takes a quick breath, thinkin’ how things change
She’s long gone, and he rattles the reigns

CHORUS
He rides through the night In a cloud of sleepin’
Reachin’ new heights, countin’ new sheep and
Buildin’ up days in the toils of this ole life
He’s totin’ his fears in a makeshift knapsack
Cussin’ the tears the kind you’re supposed hold back
Swearing’ that he’d never let anyone see him cry
Just ride

She’s another day lost blinded by the lights
Livin’ in the city’s like chasin’ a kite
The kite moves fast, you gotta be strong
Takin’ new steps cause the city rolls on
And you gotta roll on
Another two minutes in her silence war
Thinkin’ how the future ain’t the future no more
Takes a deep breath tryin’ to smile
Closes her eyes and for a little while

CHORUS
She rides through the night in a cloud of sleepin’
Reachin’ new heights, countin’ new sheep and
Buildin’ up days in the toils of this ole life
She’s totin’ her fears in a makeshift knapsack
Cussin’ the tears the kind you’re supposed hold back
Swearin’ that she’d never let anyone see her cry
Just ride

BRIDGE
Love sometimes is the kind you reach for, wavin’ in the fragile wind
When love unwinds it’s like twine on a ripcord, you can’t put it back in

INSTRUMENTAL

CHORUS
They ride through the night in a cloud of sleepin’
Reachin’ new heights, countin’ new sheep and
Buildin’ up days in the toils of this ole life (this ole life)
They’re totin’ their fears in a makeshift knapsack
Cussin’ the tears the kind you’re supposed hold back
Swearing’ that they’d never let anyone see them cry
Just ride

TRAIL OF TEARS
(Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) 4:24

By ’31 the word had come they had took the Choctaw land
Soon enough they would come for us and we’d be gun to gun with the white man
They’ll arrive to a big surprise when the soldiers show up here
We may fall, but we will not crawl on the trail of tears

We heard the Creek and the Cherokee and the Chickasaw went west
Wounded, scarred, scared and starved on that march of death
Stood our ground, would not back down, in the face of pain and fear
We may fall but we will not crawl on the trail of tears

CHORUS
What do you do when they come for you and you know you’re in the right
Could’ve walked the trail to a white man’s hell but we chose to fight
You’re against the wall, when they use the law, like a weapon in their hands
When you have no voice then you have no choice, rise up and take a stand

In ’35 the word arrived they’d were comin’ up the King’s Highway
Dressed in blue but we all knew they would turn blood red that day
We laid in wait with our faces painted for the first ones to appear
We may fall but we will not crawl on the trail of tears

We never signed their dotted line, they never drove us from this place
We fight on, proud and strong, deep down in the Everglades
As a matter of fact, if they come back, we’ll still be right here
We may fall but we will not crawl on the trail of tears
We may fall but we will not crawl on the trail of tears
We may fall but we will not crawl on the trail of tears

WORLD RENOWN
(Mark Houser- Rich Herring) 3:19

Bobby wants a bike, Billy wants a burger
Baby needs her diaper changed
My Honey’s on the couch, hair up in curlers
In my little home on the range

CHORUS
I’m world renowned
I’m world renowned
It’s a small, small world I’m living in
You oughta get a load of me in my micro-reality
I’m the biggest deal in town
‘Round here I’m world renowned

Jimmy’s got my chain saw, Tommy’s got my water hose
Ronnie wants to talk about his ex
We play cards every Thursday
Except on Rita’s Birthday
Cause Ronnie really wants her back

Mama called me up, says she wants to fiddle
Needs a set of brand new strings
Daddy he just smiles, sits there and whittles
Says boy, do you think it’s gonna rain

CHORUS
I’m world renowned (he’s world renowned)
I’m world renowned (he’s world renowned)
(He’s a meteorologist)
It’s a small, small I’m living in
You oughta get a load of me in my micro-reality
I’m the biggest deal in town
‘Round here I’m world renown

Round here I’m world….famous (famous)

© 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Sky Green Music (ASCAP)
THINGS I LOVE THE MOST
(Mark Houser- Mike Powell- Wayne Sells) 3:13

Never thought I’d miss those long hard hours workin’ on the farm
Getting’ up before the daylight comes and headin’ to the barn
Or drivin’ that old tractor when the sun was sinkin’ low
What I’d give to close my eyes and go

CHORUS
The things I liked the least made me into a man
I may be a little crazy, but I like who I am
Lookin’ back it’s funny where your memory goes
The things I liked the least are the things I love the most

School seemed like a prison to a boy with big time dreams
Mr. Poston and Geometry were never good to me
I struggled on the football field and practice wasn’t fun
But I’m thinkin’ now how much I’d love to run

INSTRUMENTAL

I’d fidget through the Sunday service when I was a kid
Tryin’ not to listen, thankful that I did
The water down on Johnson Creek seemed so deep and rough
But I’m grateful for the power in Jesus’ blood

TAG
The things I liked the least, are the things I love the most

I NEED A FRIEND
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen- Delnora Reed) 3:38

Lord, please give me a little more time
A softer place to land
A helpin’ hand along this climb
Tonight I need a friend

CHORUS
I was once a stubborn soul
A cold and selfish man
Now I’m down on bended knees
Tonight I need a friend

I’ve tried to do things my own way
That got me where I am
Lord guide me with your light I pray
Tonight I need a friend

CHORUS
I was once a stubborn soul
A cold and selfish man
Now I’m down on bended knees
Tonight I need a friend

I can’t find the way to go
I know you have your plan
Lord, lead me down a different road
Tonight I need a friend

CHORUS
I was once a stubborn soul
A lost and foolish man
Now I’m down on bended knees
Tonight I need a friend

CREDITS

Recorded at:
Adventure Studios by Joey Crawford

Additional recording:
Wurld Records Studio by Rich Herring

Produced by:
Rich Herring and Mark Houser

Mixed and Mastered by:
Rich Herring

The Players:
Mark Houser- vocals, guitar
Rich Herring – bass, drum programming, acoustic and electric guitars, backing vocals,
Tim Grogan – drums
Mark Fain – bass
Cody Kilby – acoustic guitar
Andy Leftwich – fiddle, mandolin
Wanda Vick – fiddle, banjo
Scotty Sanders – dobro
Marcia Ramirez- backing vocals
Matt Dame – backing vocals
Suzanne Karr Herring – backing vocals
Paul Brewster- backing vocals

Special Appearances:
Philip Gibbons, “Goodness gracious that’s good” on Lester
Curly Seckler- “Pretty Good” on Lester
Matthan Houser- World Renown
Hannah Houser- World Renown
The Walter Trace Crazies- Matti Houser, Huttson Houser, Jett Houser, Marlee Beaty, Mylee Beaty, Meeka Beaty, and Bryce Burnett- World Renown

Very Special Appearance:
John Houser- Long Tall Pines; opening monologue recorded in spring of 1976 for my high school senior project

Stylist:
Tena Rogers

Photography:
Tena Rogers, Stephanie Houser

Barn owner:
(Cover) Dr. Jerry Tidwell and his wife Joan

Barn owner:
(with kids) Philip and Teresa Morgan

THANK YOU

Thanks to my family, my friends, my fans, and those who share a passion for the music.A special thanks to those who gave their all to make this record the best it could be: Tena Rogers, Joey Crawford, Ray Seckler, and all of the musicians and singers. Thank you to all of my co-writers share their souls doing the writing of a song! Thanks to Dr. Jerry Tidwell and his wife Joan, and to Philip and Teresa Morgan for the use of their barns. And finally, thanks to my producer and co-writer Rich Herring, for the hard work, the good times and the great friendship. You are the best! This album is dedicated to the memory of my parents, John Houser (1935-2019) and Ann Houser (1941-2021).

TRACK LISTING

WHEN STANDIN’ UP STOOD FOR SOMETHING (With Special Guest JOANNE WILLIAMS) (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) 4:05
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Jive Buddha Music (ASCAP)
REASONS WHY (With Special Guest ASHLEE BLANKENSHIP) (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey) 2:32
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
WISH I’D OWNED THAT LAND (Mark Houser- Reed Nielson) 2:37
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Howlinghorse Music (BMI)
LEAD ME HOME (With Special Guest RHONDA VINCENT) (Mark Houser- Reed Nielson) 4:05
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Howlinghorse Music (BMI)
LEAD ME HOME (Reprise

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

HARD RAIN (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
This one was on Carrie Hassler’s debut album. I must confess I love the Bob Dylan song Hard Rain’s Gonna Fall. Jimmy suggested the name as the name for Carrie’s band. I said we should write a bluegrass song with that title and maybe they would record it. Ironically driving home from Nashville that night it was raining and the windshield wipers helped set the groove.
© 2007 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)

DELILAH (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen)
The dark story of a man who in a drunken rage killed his lover and is facing execution and wonders if she can see
the fate that lies before him. The groove on this one just feels good. Reed Nielsen has written such hits as My
Town, Little Liza Jane, Kristofferson and I Don’t Call Him Daddy among many others and has become a great friend and co-writer.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Howlinghorse Music (BMI)
(Mark Houser)

UNEVEN ROAD (Mark Houser)
A positive song that tells us love can conquer the tough times in our life. There will always be ups and downs but there is comfort in love. Tough times build character and as long as love is the vehicle it doesn’t matter what the road surface might be.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)

I’LL BE ALRIGHT (Mark Houser)
A positive ballad this one was written just before we went into the studio. I feel blessed to have so many people that support my efforts into this highly volatile field of music. When I wrote this I was watching videos of a recent trip to Yellowstone and the Tetons and was thinking how lucky I am.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Msic (BMI)

RIVER OF REGRET (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Carrie Hassler)
This upbeat song about regret sprang from a love for old country when bluegrass music was such a part of mainstream country. I brought this to Arlo and then we invited Carrie, who was in Nashville working on a project, to join us. Carrie has recorded three of my songs including Seven Miles From Wichita which spent some time at #1 on Sirius radio.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Slow Town Music Publishing (BMI)

WHEN STANDING UP STOOD FOR SOMETHING (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin)
The story of a white southerner at the beginning of the Civil Rights movement, the song’s message is that ultimately the decisions we make are up to each of us. It symbolizes how most southern whites came around, some in a matter of months, some over the course of years, and some over decades. We took the Rosa Parks story (1955) and combined it with an intro song (Buses Are A-Comin’) associated with the Freedom Riders (1961) and then mention ‘We Shall Overcome’ which became a prominent song (1963-1968). This is to symbolize the passing of time. Thanks to Joanne Williams from Sparta, Tennessee for singing on this. The world will be a better place when we all are color blind.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Jive Buddha Music (ASCAP)

JOHN THE BAPTIST (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Kendell Marvel)
A murder mystery this is a story song about a very troubled family of preachers. This song was the brainchild of Arlo Gilliam, who is one of Nashville’s finest bass players in addition to being a great songwriter. Kendell Marvel is one of my dearest friends in the music industry and a great songwriter and I guess I got lucky when the two of them didn’t finish it and Arlo let me work on it.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Slow Town Music Publishing (BMI)
Bug Music / Marvel Man Music (BMI)

REASONS WHY (Mark Houser – Jimmy Bilbrey)
A positive love ballad, this song was written on a shuttle bus in New Hampshire on the way to a Dartmouth College football game to watch my son play. It was my goal to write a love song and never mention the word love. I think the sentiment is unmistakable. New Hampshire is a beautiful setting for a songwriter.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Hickory Chicken Music (BMI)

WISH I OWNED THAT LAND (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen)
This song was recorded with a different title and lyric and story line. However once the tracks were finished my wife confessed that she hated the lyrics. I sit down one night and rewrote the entire lyrics with this title about a less controversial subject than a woman on death row. Do you ever feel progress is sometimes mislabeled?
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Howling horse Music (BMI)

THE LITTLE CHILDREN (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Steve Reece)
This song was written by my dear friends Jimmy Bilbrey and Steve Reese, who was playing rhythm guitar with Carrie Hassler’s Band. It was recorded by them but never made it to the record. The song is a prayer for the little children and of course we all are children of God.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Hickory Chicken Music (BMI)

YOU WERE (Mark Houser- Ben Ward)
A song about a man’s struggle with good and evil. Sometimes we end up far from where we thought we were going. “Life can be a tempest, life can be a war, unpredictable for that’s what living’s for. You make mistakes, you turn around, as long as your heart beats you have a prayer and when I needed someone there …. “You were”
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Ben Ward Music (BMI)

LEAD ME HOME (Mark Houser – Reed Nielsen)
This song moves me. I was so happy to write it with Reed and to have Rhonda Vincent to sing on it. I think the song took on a personality of its own when Reed and I opened up about life’s lessons. It was emotional to write about repentance and confession and the longing find the way to God who was really right there all along! I love Andy Leftwich’s haunting fiddle on this song and the fact my daughter, Hannah, sing on this one as well.
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI)
Sage Brush Music (BMI)
Howling horse Music (BMI)

LYRICS

HARD RAIN
(Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey) 3:02

If a concrete yard and artificial trees
Are all this life has to offer me
A city’s no place for a country boy
Always with his back to the wall

I’ve been missin’ the rolling hills
The fresh cut hay and the daffodils
I got just enough gas to get the hand off ‘e’
I can almost hear the whippoorwill call

CHORUS
It’s a hard rain on the cold ground
Loosening’ the chains of this big ol’ town
A rich girl’s money couldn’t make me stay
I’m driving though Kentucky in a hard rain

I told her I would give this city life a chance
But if she wants my heart she’ll have to understand
I like the simple joy of a front porch swing
Even if I’m swingin’ all alone

These worn out blades cut a groove in the glass
The check engine light is blinkin’ on the dash
I won’t slow down until I see that oak grove
The one that leads me safely home

CHORUS
It’s a hard rain on the cold ground
Loosening’ the chains of this big ol’ town
A rich girl’s money couldn’t make me stay
I’m driving through Kentucky in a hard rain

CHORUS
It’s a hard rain on the cold ground
A rich girl’s money couldn’t make me stay
I’m driving through Kentucky in a cold rain

CHORUS
Can Delilah see I’m cryin’
Can Delilah feel my pain
Does she know I’ll be arriving’
On this cold and mournful day
Can she see me from her grave

They got me weighted down in shackles
Sweat is pourin’ from my brow
From somewhere in the shadows
Can she see me now

CHORUS
Can Delilah see I’m cryin’
Can Delilah feel my pain
Does she know I’ll be arriving’
On this cold and mournful day
Can she see me from her grave

I never meant to pull that trigger
The devil’s whiskey was to blame
But today I’ll be delivered
On a long black train

CHORUS
Can Delilah see I’m cryin’
Can Delilah feel my pain
Does she know I’ll be arriving’
On this cold and mournful day
Can she see me from her grave

UNEVEN ROADD
(Mark Houser) 3:37

Life is like a canvas
Love can paint it bright
Try and just imagine
What that would be like
You and me together
Whatever may unfold
Let me bear you gently
Down life’s uneven road

This world is like a willow
Blowin’ in the wind
Try and just imagine
Where we might fit in
You and me forever
Wherever we may go
Let me bear you gently
Down life’s uneven road

BRIDGE
I will always love you
I’ll stay by your side
Let me give my heart to you
Take my hand tonight

Sometimes life gets rocky
Sometimes it gets rough
But try and just imagine
Just the two of us
You’ll never have to wonder
How much I love you so
Let me bear you gently
Down life’s uneven road
Let me bear you gently
Down life’s uneven road

4
I’LL BE ALRIGHTLL BE ALRIGHT
(Mark Houser) 3:10

Love me ‘til the rain subsides
Love me through the storms of life
Then even on our darkest night
I’ll be alright
The road ahead may not be clear
But follow me and have no fear
For if you never shed a tear
I’ll be alright

BRIDGE
Cause I don’t want to let you go
I’m not that strong
No, I just wanted you to know
You’ll never be alone

Love me as the rubble falls
Lean with me against the wall
And even if we lose it all
I’ll be alright

BRIDGE
Oh, I don’t want to let you go
I’m not that strong
No, I just wanted you to know
You’ll never be alone

Love me ‘til the winter ends,
Love me ‘til our smiles are thin
The way you always love me and
I’ll be alright…

TAG
And even on our darkest night
I’ll be alright

5
RIVER OF REGRETRIVER OF REGRET
(Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Carrie Hassler) 2:56

I took no questions, said my peace
Then I drug everything I owned down to the creek
Climbed on board without lookin’ back
Now I’m aimlessly, wanderin’, where I’m at

CHORUS
This old boat ain’t got no oar
And I’m way to far from shore
Looks like I’ll drown before I forget
Floatin’ down this river of regret

What was I thinkin’ when I set sail
Lookin’ back I should have took the rail
Here I am, wait here I go
Aimlessly wanderin’, to where I don’t know

CHORUS
This old boat ain’t got no oar
And I’m way to far from shore
Looks like I’ll drown before I forget
Floatin’ down this river of regret

BRIDGE
The creek became a river leadin’ to the sea
Looks like I’ve gotten deeper than I wanna be

CHORUS
This old boat ain’t got no oar
And I’m way to far from shore
Looks like I’ll drown before I forget
Floatin’ down this river of regret

6
WHEN STANDIN’ UP STOOD FOR SOMETHINGWHEN STANDIN’ UP STOOD FOR SOMETHING
(with Special Guest JOANNE WILLIAMS)
(Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) 4:05

I heard about a poor man from Montgomery
He never saw the inside of a school
He couldn’t read a word out of the Bible
But he was raised up on the golden rule
He was there the day the whole thing first got started
On a city bus on Cleveland Avenue.
People watched as they led Rosa off in handcuffs
He never said a word or made a move

CHORUS
When standing up stood for something
Most just watched from their seat
When standing up stood for something
Some stood up for what they believed

A few years later at the county court house
When a crowd gathered ‘neath the noon day sun
He stood arm in arm with perfect strangers
Singing we shall overcome

CHORUS
When standing up stood for somethin’
Most just watched from their seat
When standing up stood for something’
Some stood up for what they believed

Singing we shall overcome

CHORUS
When standing up stands for something
Will you watch from your seat
When standing up stands for something
Will you stand with me

JOHN THE BAPTIST
(Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Kendell Marvel) 3:37

Johnny was a rebel rouser
Son of a preacher man
Wasn’t scared of nothing but the muddy river water
The Lord and his daddy’s hands
His mama had a fling with a deacon
When he was just a little kid
He watched his daddy hold ‘em under in the mighty Mississippi
Let the water wash away their sins
Nobody ever saw them again

Johnny knew his way ‘round the good book
Johnny knew how to fight
He’d pray off the knots on Sunday morning
He put on your head Saturday night
He used to like the wine and the women
Raised a little cane now and then
Now he’s singin’ in the choir at tent revivals
Shoutin’ Hallelujah Amen

CHORUS
John the Baptist
Held the Bible like a pistol in his hands
Stone cold, holy rollin’ preacher man
John the Baptist

John’s daddy went to hell from a prison
And Johnny was his father’s son
He kept on preachin’ but he couldn’t stop thinkin’
‘Bout the sinful things he’d done
One night down at Johnson’s levy
There wasn’t no where to run
He was preachin’ to the masses on the banks of the river
Never saw where the bullet come from

CHORUS
John the Baptist
Held the Bible like a pistol in his hands
Stone cold, holy rollin’ preacher man
John the Baptist

If you’re just south of Memphis
When the fog off the water moves in
Legend says you can still here Johnny preachin’
Shoutin’ Hallelujah Amen

CHORUS

REASONS WHY
(with Special Guest Ashlee Blankenship)
(Mark Houser-Jimmy Bilbrey) 2:32

It’s like wakin’ from a dream
And the dream continues on
Just like sittin’ in a porch swing
listenin’ to your favorite song
Like the poetry of a sunset
In a late September sky
And I tell you so you’ll know
The reasons why

Someplace where the scent of spring
Is forever in the air
Where you know even when it rains
The sun is always there
Soon the clouds will disappear
And the whisperin’ wind will sigh
And I tell you so you’ll know
The reasons why

BRIDGE
Life with you is like paradise
I’ll be true each day of my life

It’s like wishin’ on a star
When you believe with all your might
Like the sound of a guitar
In the glow of candlelight
Like a precious baby’s smile
Or a tender lullaby
And I tell you so you’ll know
The reasons why

And I tell you so you’ll know
Cause I wanted you to know
From my heart I’ll always show
The reasons why

WISH I’D OWNED THAT LAND
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) 2:37

Wish I’d owned that land
Before they built that high rise
Coverin’ up my blue sky
Lights a country mile wide
Wish I’d owned that land

Wish I’d made a stand
Back before the progress
Showed up at this address
And left us in a big mess
Wish I’d owned that land

CHORUS
Government man in a suit and tie
Must have been a lawyer
Said three words, told two lies
‘Til both sides of his mouth hurt
I wish I’d owned that land

Wish I’d owned that land
That sits across the river
Where money people gather
Cigars, hats and sweaters
Wish I’d owned that land

If I’d owned that land
I’d have blocked those dozers
A tractor parked in clover
Shotgun on my shoulder
If I’d owned that land

CHORUS
The government man in a suit and tie
Must have been a lawyer
Said three words, told two lies
‘Til both sides of his mouth hurt

God will judge the greedy souls
In the great hereafter
Some progress is disaster
Brings more tears than laughter
Pain than pleasure

THE LITTLE CHILDREN
(Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Steve Reece) 2:41

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
God save the little children

Protect them Lord and when they dream
Give them roots and give them wings
Give them wisdom all their days
God save the little children

CHORUS
Temptation waits around the bend
This world is filled with paths of sin
So hold them safely in your arms
Dear God, save all
The little children

Let them smile and know they’re loved
Guide them with your light above
In times of weakness don’t let them stray
God save the little children

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
Dear God save the little children

CHORUS
Temptation waits around the bend
This world is filled with paths of sin
So hold them safely in your arms
Dear God, save all
The little children

We all are your little children

YOU WERE
(Mark Houser- Ben Ward) 3:10

I was waitin’ for an angel one dark night
When I met up with the devil’s piercin’ eyes
So beautiful I fell for her disguise
I thought that I was bound for paradise

Before I knew it I woke confined in hell
Knew I could not escape all by myself
Dirty scorched and thirsty for a breath
I was livin’ with the scars of my regrets

And there you were, oh there you were

CHORUS
Life can be a tempest, life can be a war
Unpredictable but baby ain’t what living’s for
You make mistakes, you turn around
As long as your heart beats you have a prayer
When I needed someone there….
You were

I was taken in and treated like a King
Dressed up, sat down, for dinner you and me
Transgressions were not mentioned at this feast
Just forgiveness, thankfulness and peace

And there you were, oh there you were

You were

LEAD ME HOME
(Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen) 4:05

My heart is broken, my eyes are tired
My back is weak, the mountain higher
Still I climb with no regrets
Until they lay me down to rest

CHORUS
When you find me lead me home
I’ve been wanderin’ for too long
I’ve been so lonely since I’ve been gone
When you find me lead me home

You held my hand when I was young
Then you let go and let me run
You tired to warn me I turned away
Still you hear me when I pray

CHORUS
When you find me lead me home
I’ve been wanderin’ for too long
I’ve been so lonely since I’ve been gone
When you find me lead me home

CHORUS
When you find me lead me home
I’ve been wanderin’ for too long
I’ve been so weary since I’ve been gone
When you find me lead me home

MODULATION
When you find me lead me home
I’ve been wanderin’ for too long
I’ve been so weary since I’ve been gone
When you find me lead me home

When you find me lead me home

CREDITS

Vocals/ Guitar:
Mark Houser

Guitar/ Banjo:
Cody Kilby

Fiddle/ Mandolin:
Andy Leftwich

Banjo:
Cory Walker

Bass:
Barry Bales

Dobro:
Scotty Sanders

Guitar/ Percussion:
Rich Herring

Harmony Vocals:
Paul Brewster, Dawn Sears

Special Guests:
Rhonda Vincent, Vocals/ Lead Me Home
Joanne Williams, Vocals/ When Standin’ Up Stood For Something
Ashlee Blankenship, Vocals/ Reasons Why

Additional Background vocals on Lead Me Home:
Rick Dixon, Sam Green, Donny Jackson, Rich Herring, Mark Houser
Dorinda Griggs, Anna-Laura Green, Keli Green, Hannah Houser, Suzanne Karr

Produced by:
Mark Houser and Rich Herring

Engineered by:
Rich Herring,

Additional Overdubs:
Joey Crawford, Mark Hodges

Mixed by:
Rich Herring

Mastered by:
Alex McCollough at Yes Master, Nashville

Photos by:
Kim Davidson

CD Design by:
Anthony Ladd

Member:
IBMA, CMA, NSAI

Rhonda Vincent appears courtesy of Upper Management Records
Ashlee Blankenship appears courtesy of Mountain Fever Records
Jack Stoddart (Hippie Jack); Evan Butler, day1

THANK YOU

Thanks to my wife Kelly, to my parents, my children and grandchildren who make every day exciting, to Dan Hays for his friendship and advice, to Hippie Jack for making people aware of Overton County, TN, to all those who sung on the project including Dawn Sears, Paul Brewster as well as Special Guests Rhonda Vincent, Ashlee Blankenship and Joanne Williams, and also the additional singers on Lead Me Home. Thanks to all the musicians for your incredible talent and for bringing these songs to life. Thanks to all of my co-writers, because it really is all about the song. Thanks to Rodney Atkins, and a special mention of my good friend and Grand Ole Opry legend Jack Greene for singing my song on the Grand Ole Opry; and finally to my home: Livingston/ Overton County-“The Home of Americana Music” and also the birthplace of my inspiration and cousin, bluegrass legend Lester Flatt.

FEATURED VIDEO

ABOUT

Mark Houser is a singer-songwriter- author, best known as the lead singer for Mark Houser & Bluegrass Drive. The band’s initial album Uneven Road reached #9 on Billboard Magazine’s Bluegrass Album chart.

Houser wrote or co-wrote every song on the record including the song Lead Me Home that featured Grammy winner Rhonda Vincent on harmonies and reached #1 on the Inspirational Country Music Chart, the Christian Country Weekly Chart and Bluegrass Gospel Chart. The album, released on Rural Rhythm Records, included three chart singles, River of Regret (#13) Uneven Road (#4) in additional to Lead Me Home. Houser co-produced the project with Little River Band guitarist Rich Herring.

Houser followed it up with his Americanaville LP in 2021 with 13 more songs he wrote or co-write. The title cut inspired a Music Video and a Listening Room Venue in Livingston, called Americanaville. See Americanaville.net.

Houser and Herring have teamed up yet again, this time for bluegrass gospel album from Mark Houser and Bluegrass Drive titled Gospel Train. The album features guests Rhonda Vincent, Linda Davis, Lang Scott, and Darin & Brooke Aldridge. It features 14 songs, 8 of which he wrote by himself and 6 with co-writers.

Houser is also very proud of the Roots Gospel LP by Mark D. Conklin, titled The Gospel According to Mark. The album features 12 songs 5 of which Houser co-wrote with Mark D. Conklin. Each song is story from the biblical Book of Mark. Huser’s songs on the project include Make Way, Into The River, Unbelief, The Greatest Is Love and Oh Lonely Day. Check it out!

Houser is also an accomplished songwriter with over 150 songs recorded in various genres, including cuts by Rodney Atkins, T. Graham Brown, John Berry, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, Rhonda Vincent, Wendy Moten, Kendall Shaffer and the late Grand Ole Opry legend Jack Greene in country music. In pop music he has had cuts by Little River Band, Russell Hitchcock of Air Supply and Anthony Krizan of the Spin Doctors. In addition, Houser has penned many bluegrass cuts including one of the most played songs of 2007 ‘Seven Miles from Wichita’ by Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain, and a song on The Roys ICMA nominated album New Day Dawning titled Winding Roads. Hssler recorded 4 Mark Houser songs in all.

Houser’s song Red, White and Blue Christmas was performed on numerous occasions on the Grand Ole Opry, by Opry legend, the late, great Jack Greene. Houser has played at various venues including being the first entertainer to play the Nashville Music Center as the guest of Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam during the Tennessee Statesman’s Dinner. Houser also played the Governor’s re-election kickoff at the Loveless Cafe. He has performed numerous times at Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe, always to a standing room only, sold out audience.

Other notable songs recorded by international artists include Houser’s song It’s Time by Australian by country music artist Scott Dann which charted in Australia, A Bad Idea by Heidi Raye in Canada, and the song Nel’ Aria recorded by Elena Ley in Italian. Jessica Kilroy, Arlo Gilliam, Gordy Quist of the Band of Heathens. Brian Gowan of country music’s Blake and Brian, David Adam Byrnes, Addison Johnson, Jim Bowman, C.J. Wilder, and many others have recorded Houser written songs.

Houser’s song I’m An Island appears on 3 different Little River Band releases, including Cuts Like a Diamond, Big Box, and Black Tie with an orchestral arrangement

His influences include a range of genres including singer-songwriters Bob Dylan, John Prine, Jim Croce, James Taylor, and Harry Chapin to bluegrass artists Flatt and Scruggs, to country’s Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks and Don Williams.

Houser’s great grandmother and Lester Flatt’s mother were sisters.

“My earliest memories of music were bluegrass and traditional country music. Those songs and styles always take me back to great memories,” Houser said.

Houser has also written songs with many of Nashville’s finest songwriters including Nashville Hall of Fame members Jim Bride, Rafe Van Hoy and Casey Beathard. Also, he has written with Rodney Atkins, Kendell Marvel, A.J. Croce, Tom Chapin, Anthony Krizan, Rich Herring, Buddy Hyatt, Randy Houser, Keifer Thompson of Thompson Square, Jimmy Bilbrey, Arlo Gilliam, Tiffany Huggins- Grant, among many others.

In addition to music, Houser authored the novel The Corbin Keene Chronicles: Some Other Somewhere which has been endorsed by Mike Huckabee and Diane Black. The book includes noir, action, adventure, romance all set in a political drama of a common man faced with danger. See a synopsis under Books.

And the journey continues….

REVIEWS

I’m proud to be part of Mark’s project, along with an array of incredible acoustic instrumentalists. Mark sings about nature and the personal encounters of life. Relaxing appeal. True musical therapy.

Rhonda Vincent

7-time IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year, The Wall Street Journal designated her as the “The Queen of Bluegrass.”

Mark Houser writes music that helps me see.

Hippie Jack

Host and Producer of PBS’ Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s

Mark Houser is talented and humble. A winning combo!

Julie Gold

writer of the mega hit "From A Distance"

Houser is the first guy that wrote songs with me. Convinced me I wasn’t crazy for believing music was magical. God only knows where I’d be if I hadn’t met Mark.

Rodney Atkins

Curb Records recording artist, (co-wrote and recorded Houser’s song God Only Knows)

Mark is one of the best writers that Nashville has to offer and now has proven to be an unbelievable artist as well!!! I have known Mark for several years and had the opportunity to record a few of his songs. Now it’s time for folks to enjoy his incredible talent! I’m so proud of him.

Carrie Hassler

Rural Rhythm Records recording artist

I have known about Mark for a while through the songwriting community. I had heard great things but it wasn’t till we got together in a room that I saw and heard first hand his talents, great lyrics and equally great melodies. He is a joy to write with and an even bigger joy to call a friend.

Lee Roy of The Roys

Rural Rhythm Records recording artist

I loved ‘Seven Miles From Wichita’ the first time I heard it. I knew it was something I wanted to record and it ended up going to #1 on Sirius XM Radio and staying on the charts for 10 months.

Carrie Hassler

Rural Rhythm Records recording artist

Mark Houser, professionally a great writer and artist; personally, a really great friend.

Grand Ole Opry member Jack Greene, three time Grand Ole Opry member Jack Greene

CMA winner , (Recorded Houser’s song Red, White and Blue Christmas and sang it to a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry, December 2003)

“I love it when God orchestrates bringing like hearts and minds together!! That’s how I feel when my friendship with Mark happened. I have known Tena for many years…and met Mark a few years later. I love his writing and I love the honest and raw sound of his voice. When Mark asked Lang and me to sing on his latest album …and he sent the simple demo and partially written lyrics and melody for us to hear…..”I Will Stand”…it leaped out of the speakers and into my soul. I couldn’t say yes fast enough.

So, music might have been my introduction to my friend, Mark…but, God weaved him into my life for way bigger reasons than a song or two. I really believe that our Father finds joy when his children meet and end up loving each other…and even making music together.” …..

Linda Davis

Grammy Award Winner/Singer/Songwriter

SONGWRITER

1983

After Lovin’ You (Jim Bowman- Mark Houser)
Recorded by: Jim Bowman(Hal Kat Country Records)

1988

The Big Picture (Mark Houser)
I Write At Night (Mark Houser)
Rusty (Mark Houser)
It’s Got To Feel Like Love (Mark Houser- Terry Webb)
The Bottom Line (Mark Houser- Jim Bowman)
It Takes A Lady (Mark Houser- John Houser)
Why Oh Why (Mark Houser- Terry Webb- T. D. Harden)
I Found Another Love (Mark Houser- Terry Webb
It’s Your Heart (Mark Houser- Terry Webb)
Looks Like You Might Fall For Me (Mark Houser)
All songs recorded by: Mark Houser (Magnum Records- LP “The Big Picture”)

1989

The Big Picture (Mark Houser)
Recorded by: movie soundtrack for NO JUSTICE (Richland Productions)

1993

Healin’ Hands (Craig Martin- Jimmy Bilbrey- Mark Houser)
Recorded by: Craig Martin (Mercury Records)

1994

God Only Knows (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser- Ted Hewitt)
There You Go (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser)
Mayday Payday (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser- Ted Hewitt)
Beam Me Up Scottie (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser)
She’s Too Hot (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser- Ted Hewitt)
Can’t Take It Anymore (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser- Kendall Marvel)
All songs recorded by: Rodney Atkins (Tram Records- LP Rodney Atkins)

1996

Buffalo Bill (Casey Beathard- Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by: Casey Beathard Band (GMMI- LP Casey Beathard Band)
War Of 1812 (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by: CooperBerry (Warner Brothers)

1997

Worth The Weight (Jimmy Bilbrey- Mark Houser- Russell Cliché)
Recorded by: Wild Frontier (WF Project)
Buffalo Bill (Casey Beathard- Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by: Casey Beathard (Liberty Records)

1998

Mary Had A Little Lamb (Jimmy Bilbrey- Mark Houser)
Recorded by: Amy Choate
Buffalo Bill (Casey Beathard- Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by: Riatta (Truro Records- Nova Scotia)

1999

God Only Knows (Rodney Atkins- Mark Houser- Ted Hewitt)
Recorded by: Rodney Atkins (Curb Records- single CD with “In A Heartbeat”)

2000

One Reason (Mark Houser- Rodney Atkins- Brian Gowan)
Recorded by: Brian Gowan (LP titled Spanish Wine)

2003

Red, White, and Blue Christmas (Candy Carpenter- Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by: Jack Greene (LP titled “Greene Christmas”)
Self Proclaimed Holiday (Mark Houser- Ronny Palmer- Amy Huffman)
Recorded By: Brittney Roe (Labeless Records)
Names On An Overpass (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Ronny Palmer)
Recorded by: Casey Coleman (The Casey Coleman Project)

2004

Tell Me Like A Man (Mark Houser- Amanda Akerman)
Recorded by: Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain ( LP titled Rain and Shine)
Bitter Tears(Gordie Quist- Damien Roomets- Mark Houser)
Recorded by Gordy Quist (LP titled Songs Play Me)

2005

Bus Driver (Mark Houser- Mark Schaffel- Mike Visconti)
This Is Goodbye (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Amy Huffman)
The Old Woman (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough)
Recorded by Kristi Dudley
This Is Goodbye (Mark Houser-Jimmy Bilbrey- Amy Huffman)
Seven Miles From Wichita (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Amy Huffman)
Recorded by Amy Huffman
Back It Up (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam)
Recorded by Laura Bryna (Equity Records)

2006

The Little Children (Mark Houser- Steve Reese- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Hard Rain (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Seven Miles From Wichita (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Amy Huffman)
All Recorded by: Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain (LP titled Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain)
It’s Time (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Scott Dann)
Recorded by: Scott Dann (LP titled It’s Time)
Stare (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Tiffany Huggins)
Night Before (Mark Houser- Tiffany Huggins)
Recorded by Tiffany Huggins (LP titled Red Dirt In Genius on Mount20 Records)
I’ll Just Walk (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam)
You HaveThe Right (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam)
A Bad Idea (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Josh Stevens)
Better Way To Go (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by Arlo Gilliam(LP titled Arlo Gilliam)

2007

Nell’aria(Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Elena Ley)
Recorded by Elena Ley (LP titled Brividi)
Bus Driver(Mark Houser- Mark Schaffel- Mike Visconti)
Recorded by Stephanie DeWolfe

2008

Truth About Lyin’ (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Karyn Rochelle)
Back It Up (Arlo Gilliam- Mark Houser)
Recorded by Heather Necole (LP titled Sweet Talkin’ You on ANA Records)
Sometimes I Just Feel Like That (Mark Houser- Memorie Gayle)
Recorded by Memarie Gayle (LP titled Memarie Gayle)

2009

She’s All That (Cooper Boone- Mark Conklin- Mark Houser)
Recorded by Cooper Boone (LP titled Cooper Boone)
A Bad Idea (Arlo Gilliam- Mark Houser0 Josh Stevens)
Recorded by Heidi Ray (LP titled Heidi Ray)
John The Baptist (Arlo Gilliam- Mark Houser- Kendell Marvel)
Tough Love (Arlo Gilliam- Mark Houser- Keifer Thompson)
Hillbilly History(Arlo Gilliam- Mark Houser- Reed Neilson)
Recorded by Arlo Gilliam (LP titled Picture of You)
War of 1812 (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
I Love Lovin’ You (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Daddy’s Week (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough)
I’m In Mexico (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Arlo Gilliam)
I Rule The Roost (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Tell Me Everything (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by Jimmy Bilbrey (LP titled Back To My Roots)

2010

Maybe She Won’t Go (Mark Houser- David Adam Byrnes- Jay Brunswick)
That’s What I Tell Myself (Mark Houser- David Adam Byrnes- Jay Brunswick)
Recorded by David Adam Byrnes (LP titled Premium Country on BAM)
Get My Rowdy On (Mark Houser- Mark D. Conklin- Anthony Krizan) Recorded by Ray Aaron on his LP Fillin’ Up The Love Tank

2011

It’s Okay (Mark Houser- Teresa Boaz- C. J. Wilder- Jay Brunswick)
Recorded by Russell Hitchcock on LP titled The Nashville Sessions
Can’t Go Back (Mark Houser- Jessica Kilroy)
Love Don’t Make Mistakes (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin- Jessica Kilroy)
Ain’t No Comin’ Back (Mark Houser- Jessica Kilroy- Amy Clark)
Recorded by Jessica Kilroy on LP entitled COLD
Blues (Mark Houser- Addison Johnson)
Recorded by Addison Johnson on EP Blues

2012

Windin’ Roads (Mark Houser- Lee Roy- Jay Brunswick)
Recorded by THE ROYS on the CD New Day Dawning on Rural Rhythm Records
DELILAH (Mark Houser- Reed Nielson)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music BMI) Howlinghorse Music (BMI)

2012 (continued)

RIVER OF REGRET (Mark Houser-Arlo Gilliam- Carrie Hassler)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Slow Town Music Publishing (BMI)
WHEN STANDIN’ UP STOOD FOR SOMETHING (with Special Guest JOANNE WILLIAMS) (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Jive Buddha Music (ASCAP)
JOHN THE BAPTIST (Mark Houser- Arlo Gilliam- Kendell Marvel)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Slow Town Music Publishing (BMI) Bug Music/ Marvel Man Music (BMI)
REASONS WHY (with Special Guest ASHLEE BLANKENSHIP) (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Hickory Chicken Music (BMI)
WISH I’D OWNED THAT LAND (Mark Houser- Reed Nielson)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Howlinghorse Music (BMI)
THE LITTLE CHILDREN (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Steve Reece)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Hickory Chicken Music (BMI)
YOU WERE (Mark Houser- Ben Ward)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Ben Ward Music (BMI)
LEAD ME HOME (with Special Guest RHONDA VINCENT) (Mark Houser- Reed Nielson)
© 2012 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI) Sage Brush Music (BMI) Howlinghorse Music (BMI)
LEAD ME HOME (Reprise)
Recorded by Mark Houser & Bluegrass Drive (Rural Rhythm Records- LP titled LEAD ME HOME

2013

I’M AN ISLAND (Mark Houser- Rich Herring)
Recorded by Little River Band from the album CUTS LIKE A DIAMOND
MISTER MISTLETOE
Recorded by Olds 88 from the album
Getting’ Better (Mark Houser- Jay Brunswick- Gary Raymond Pfaff) Recorded by Gary Ray on his LP A Moment Like This
Cold Beer ((Tommy Joe Wilson- Jimmy D’wayne Smith- Mark Houser- Jay Brunswick) Recorded on Tommy Joe Wilson’s LP The Road Home

2017

I’M AN ISLAND (Mark Houser- Rich Herring)
Recorded by Little River Band from the album BIG BOX

2019

I Love Lovin’ You (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
Recorded by Danny Howard, from the album ACTUAL MILES

2020

I’m An Island (Mark Houser- Rich Herring)
Recorded by Little River Band from the album BLACK TIE

2021

Daddy’s Week (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey- Jerry Bumbalough) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Hickory Chicken Music (BMI) 3:36
I Need A Friend (Mark Houser- Reed Nielsen-Delnora Reed) © 2021 Writers In House Music, LLC (BMI); Howlinghorse Music (BMI); Delnora’s Publishing (ASCAP) 3:38

2023

Sometimes God (C. J. Wilder- Mark Houser- Wood Newton) Recorded by J. Wilder as a single

2024

Make Way (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) Recorded by Mark Conklin and Ernie Hasse & Signature Sound on the Mark Conklin LP The Gospel According to Mark
Into The River (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) Recorded by Mark Conklin and The Fisk Jubilee Singers on the Mark Conklin LP The Gospel According to Mark
Unbelief (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) Recorded by Mark Conklin and T. Graham Brown on the Mark Conklin LP The Gospel According to Mark
The Greatest Is Love (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) Recorded by Mark Conklin and Wendy Moten on the Mark Conklin LP The Gospel According to Mark
Oh Lonely Day (Mark Houser- Mark Conklin) Recorded by Mark Conklin, John Berry and Rhonda Vincent on the Mark Conklin LP The Gospel According to Mark
Beer I Come, Beer I Go (Mark Houser- Wood Newton) Recorded by Kendall Shaffe
20 Days and 40 Nights (Mark Houser- Jim McBride) Recorded by Kendall Shaffer
From the album Gospel Train:
I Still Believe in The Blood (Mark Houser- Jimmy Bilbrey)
I Will Stand (Mark Houser) Featuring Linda Davis and Lang Scott
Gospel Train (Mark Houser) Featuring Darin & Brooke Aldridge
Where You Choose To Go (Mark Houser- Bill Whyte)
When the Wheels Fall Off (Mark Houser)
Jesus Sweet Jesus (Mark Houser- John Houser) Featuring Rhonda Vincent
Rich (Mark Houser)
Numbers on A Stone (Mark Houser- Mike Webb)
Once Upon a Time (Mark Houser)
Sinsurance (Mark Houser- Wood Newton)
Mary (Mark Houser)
Lights on The Mississippi (Mark Houser)
We Preach Our Funeral (Mark Houser)
Oh Lonely Day (Mark Houser- Mark D. Conklin)

All recorded by Mark Houser & Bluegrass Drive (Wurld Records LP titled AMERICANAVILLE

BOOKS

Mark Houser’s novel The Corbin Keene Chronicles: Some Other Somewhere is coming soon. Endorsed by former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and the first female to Chair the United States House of Representatives Budget Committee Diane Black, the political drama begins as a noir, and includes action, adventure, and romance. This is a must-read novel! Place your order for your advanced autographed copy today in the Shop Section!

A synopsis:

Some Other Somewhere is a modern-day noir which traces the adventures of a troubled man through an extremely trying time. The story begins in the greater Boston area where after finding his business partner-girlfriend is having an affair with one of his best friends he steals a large sum of money from the business, wiring it to a foreign country in the Caribbean. He battles the rain, a terrible cough, and paranoia while heading south on a passenger train to take care of a situation in his home state of Tennessee before finally fleeing the country.

He has a plan but like many fugitives his plans go awry. The rail system is forced to a halt by an act of terrorism. This leaves him considering whether to quickly search for alternative routes to Tennessee or instead bolting for the Caribbean before it is too late? His decision leads to a mixture of drama and action adventure that takes him to places where danger lurks at every turn.

Will he be discovered and if so what will be the consequences? What happens when Plan A becomes Plan B and then Plan C? What is the secret that leads him to Tennessee? As the walls begin closing in on him what is the best course of action?

This is only the beginning of a story that examines the pitfalls a reluctant criminal faces on his way to self-discovery. He realizes he lives in a world where one man’s life can be affected by so many other things that are happening around him.

The many twists and turns will have you looking forward to turning each page to see where it all leads.

“Mark Houser has done it again, his knack for storytelling keeps the reader riveted and buckled in until the last page is turned.”

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee

“Mark paints a picture of an average everyday American who is driven by jealousy to steal money from an ex-girlfriend. He then heads south, but soon Plan A becomes, plan B and then Plan C, before his attitude changes when he finds himself a key player in a plot much bigger than himself. The twists and turns end in a place no one can predict.’

Diane Black, the first female Chair of the United States House of Representatives Budget Committee.

Houser’s book of poetry, songs and reflections titled Seeds is also available for pre-orders in the Shop Section. The book is endorsed by country music artist Rodney Atkins, Hall of Fame songwriter Jim McBride and, Roots Gospel artist Mark. D. Conklin.

“Mark Houser was the first guy that wrote songs with me. Convinced me I wasn’t crazy for believing music was magical. God only knows where I’d be if I hadn’t met Mark.

Rodney Atkins, Curb Recording Artist

I met Mark when I played a show at his Americanaville venue in Livingston TN. We have grown to be close friends and we are brothers in Christ. We have also written a few songs together I am extremely proud of. I admire Mark for the man he is. His faith, talent and love for music is boundless. Mark is a great storyteller. His book “Seeds”, tells some of his best stories.

Jim McBride, Nashville Hall of Fame songwriter (Chattahoochee, Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow, Someday, Rose in Paradise and many more)- author of the book Lines About Life.

“I’ve had the privilege of enjoying Mark Houser’s wit and wisdom firsthand for over twenty years. I highly recommend taking the opportunity to experience it for yourself in this exceptional work.”

Mark D. Conklin, artist, known for The Gospel According for Mark.

SHOP

CONTACT

TRACK LISTING

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

LYRICS

CREDITS

THANK YOU

TRACK LISTING

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

LYRICS

CREDITS

THANK YOU

TRACK LISTING

STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS

LYRICS

CREDITS

THANK YOU

Americanaville

Gospel Train – Autographed CD

Gospel Train – Autographed Vinyl

Some Other Somewhere – Autographed Book

Uneven Road – CD