Over the years, each member of Diamond Rio has heard God’s calling through a myriad of experiences and it’s those joys and challenges that are reflected in the songs on this new album. For example, member Dana Williams in the wake of his pastor’s death wrote the poignant “What Are We Going to Do Now” where as the track “Moments of Heaven” was penned with the idea of family, friendships and more granting us moments of “Heaven on earth.”

Making this transition from mainstream county music to a Christian deal with Word Records was an organic progression for the band that has been known for such positive hits as “I Believe,” “Mama Don’t Forget to Pray for Me” and “One More Day.”

“We’re revealing who we are. We’re not preaching. We’re not preachers, but we’re saying, ‘This is who I am and I’m proud of it,’” says member Jimmy Olander. “God is working and we’re here for a reason.”

Diamond Rio teamed up to write with some of the Christian industry’s most recognizable songwriters for their newest recording including Matthew West (Rascal Flatts, Point of Grace), Bernie Herms (Casting Crowns) and Chris Eaton (Vince Gill, Margaret Becker).

“We’ve gone to great efforts to try to make sure we’ve written a record that’s from the heart,” adds Olander. “These songs share what we believe in. This is who we are.”

The Reason’s first single “God Is There,” an anthem of hope and a powerful reminder in troubled times, will impact radio on Jul. 31.

The autobiography Beautiful Mess from Thomas Nelson will coincide with the album release of The Reason. The band’s first book chronicles both their personal and professional legacy.

Formed in 1984, Diamond Rio features lead singer Marty Roe, guitarist Jimmy Olander, drummer Brian Prout, keyboardist Dan Truman, bassist/harmony Dana Williams and Gene Johnson on mandolin/harmony. The band signed with Arista in 1988 and embarked on one of the most successful careers in country music. The band has sold over 10 million albums earning three platinum and five gold records and won the Country Music Association’s Vocal Group of the Year award four times as well as netting two Academy of Country Music Awards in the top Vocal Group of the Year category and thirteen GRAMMY ® nominations. When they debuted in 1991 with the hit “Meet in the Middle,” Diamond Rio became the first group in the history of country music to have a debut single reach No. 1. They continued to place 32 more singles on the Billboard chart, including “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” “Norma Jean Riley,” “Beautiful Mess” and “Love a Little Stronger.” Their last recording, A Diamond Rio Christmas: The Star Still Shines, a 2007 holiday album marked their debut with Word Records.