Album Notes

Honky Tonk - Roots Country Singer/Songwriter - Karen Collins

Country singer and coal miner's daughter, Karen Collins writes exceptional songs that she delivers in a traditional style -- Hazel Dickens meets Loretta Lynn. Who says they don't make 'em like they used to!

"Karen Collins has one of those classic country voices.”
Blue Suede News - Summer 2004

“I wish Ernest[Tubb] could have heard your songs”
Buddy Charleton (pedal steel player with Ernest Tubb in the 60s)
– October 2006

The Backroads Band - One of the Washington area's top retro country bands, The Backroads Band plays classic country music like it was played back then. The band’s repetoire includes award winning original songs and tunes from Karen, Geff & Ira plus cover songs that range from 50’s rock & roll to classic country (Patsy Cline and Hank Williams). In no time at all, they'll have you out on the dance floor doing a boot scootin' two step or snuggling up close for a buckle polishing slow tune.

The band features Karen Collins (vocals, fiddle, and rhythm guitar), Ira Gitlin (lead guitar, baritone guitar, banjo and vocals), Geff King(bass and vocals) and Rob Howe (drums). Their first CD “Tail Light Blues” features eight songs written by Karen, one Bluegrass/country song by Geff and a new instrumental by Ira, along with three of their favorite cover songs. An array of stellar guests join them on Tail Light Blues

Special Guests:
Buddy Charleton Pedal steel – 1, 13
Matt Levine Dobro, lap steel – 4, 7
Dede Wyland Harmony vocals – 5
Angelita Porcella & Lynn Healey Harmony vocals – 7
Brian Simms Accordion – 10
Ric Sweeney Harmony vocals – 11