NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 21, 2025) – Billy Blue Records is proud to announce the release of “Ruby Ann,” the newest single from Authentic Unlimited’s highly-praised album, So Much For Forever. This mid-tempo heartbreaker tells the story of someone left wondering why the love of his life has disappeared, carried by the band’s signature harmonies and skillful instrumentation. 
 
Co-written by all five members of Authentic Unlimited—Jesse Brock, Stephen Burwell, Jerry Cole, Eli Johnston, and John Meador—"Ruby Ann" captures the aching uncertainty of lost love. The song’s chorus asks, “Oh Ruby Ann, where have you gone? Why did you leave our little home?” blending sorrowful storytelling with the band’s unmistakable bluegrass drive.
 
“Authentic Unlimited has done it again,” says Jerry Salley, A&R/Creative Director of Billy Blue Records. “This song has everything you want in a great bluegrass tune: raw emotion, a melody that stays with you, and flawless vocals and musicianship.”
 
"To me, 'Ruby Ann' is the essence of a bluegrass song,” says co-writer and band member Stephen Burwell. “This song focuses on the powerful trio throughout the verses and choruses and leaves you feeling grassy.”

Building on the success of So Much For Forever—which topped Bluegrass Unlimited’s Top Bluegrass Albums Chart—and #1 singles “Fall in Tennessee” and “Big Wheels”, Authentic Unlimited continues to solidify their place as one of the most exciting acts in bluegrass today.

The band recently added to their growing list of achievements, earning four IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards in 2024, including both Song of the Year AND Video of the Year for “Fall in Tennessee,” Vocal Group of the Year, and Mandolin Player of the Year for band member Jesse Brock. They were also featured on the cover of Bluegrass Unlimited’s November issue.

With “Ruby Ann”, Authentic Unlimited once again proves that their signature blend of tradition and creativity resonates deeply with bluegrass fans. Audiences can catch them live at one of their 75+ tour stops this year.

Produced and Arranged by Authentic Unlimited

Vocals, Banjo, and Guitar: Eli Johnston

Vocals and Bass: Jerry Cole

Vocals and Guitar: John Meador

Mandolin: Jesse Brock

Fiddle and Percussion: Stephen Burwell

ABOUT AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED
Authentic Unlimited, a 2024 Grammy nominee and two-time IBMA Vocal Group of the Year, is a powerhouse bluegrass and Gospel band known for their incredible musical talent and dedication to the craft. The group features five seasoned musicians, each bringing unique backgrounds and impressive credentials. Stephen Burwell, a skilled fiddler from Texas and a former member of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, also works as a recording engineer. Jerry Cole, raised in Tennessee, grew up immersed in music and toured with bands like Pine Mountain Railroad and IIIrd Tyme Out before joining Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Eli Johnston, originally from Missouri, discovered his passion for music early and has contributed original songs to the bluegrass world; he too has roots in Doyle Lawson’s band. Mandolin virtuoso Jesse Brock, from Kentucky, has won the IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year award three times, cementing his status in the industry. Rounding out the group is John Meador from East Tennessee, a talented guitarist and vocalist who began performing as a young teenager. Together, these five musicians form Authentic Unlimited, a group that’s quickly gaining recognition for their remarkable contributions to bluegrass and Gospel music.