Bruce Robison, Kelly Willis’ ‘Cheater’s Game’ Album Blends Covers and Originals
They're one of country music's power couples, with successful solo careers as individuals. And as a duo they've got irresistible charm, wit and plenty of traditional country cred. On Feb. 12, singer-songwriters and husband-and-wife team Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis will release Cheater's Game, on Premium Records. In addition to the seven new songs, the project will feature six remakes. "The songs that we chose to cover were important in that they reflect what we love about country music," says Kelly.
Songwriters whose material they pay tribute to with the collection include Don Williams, Razzy Bailey, Hayes Carll, Dave Alvin and Robert Earl Keen. A tour throughout the U.S. will follow. See a list of tour dates below.
"This is something that I've wanted to try for a couple of years," notes Bruce, who has been married to Kelly since 1996. "At some point you decide: let's see what this is like if we don't keep it at arm's length. It does feel like the time is right for us to do this together. Kelly is such an amazing singer, and she makes a song sound like it ought to sound."
In addition to recording eight of his own acclaimed solo albums, Bruce Robison has scored No. 1 country hits as a writer for George Strait ("Wrapped"), Tim McGraw and Faith Hill ("Angry All the Time") and the Dixie Chicks ("Travelin' Soldier"). Kelly's most recent solo effort was 2007's Translated From Love. She has released six solo albums throughout her career. Bruce and Kelly are the parents of four children, including a set of twins.
Cheater's Game will be released Feb. 12.
Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis tour dates:
February 13, New York, NY, Joe's Pub
February 14, Boston, Mass., Johnny D's
February 15, Philadelphia, Pa., The Tin Angel
February 16, Richmond, Va., Ashland Coffee and Tea
February 22, Austin, Texas, The Cactus Café
March 1, Dallas, Texas, The Kessler Theater
March 7, Houston, Texas, River Oaks Country Club
March 8, Houston, Texas, McGonigel's Mucky Duck
March 22, San Antonio, Texas, Charline McCombs Empire Theater
April 5, Chicago, Ill., The City Winery
April 6, Newport, Ky., The Southgate House
April 7, Columbus, Ohio, The Grand Valley Dale Ballroom
April 18, Winters, Calif., The Palms Playhouse
April 19, Sebastopol, Calif., Sebastopol Community Cultural Center
April 20, Berkeley, Calif., Freight and Salvage
April 25, Nashville, Tenn., 3rd and Lindsley
April 26, St. Louis, Mo., Off Broadway
April 27, Kansas City, Mo., Knuckleheads
May 18, Pflugerville, Texas, Deutschenfest
June 6, Uncasville, Conn., Mohegun Sun
June 8, Alexandria, Va., The Birchmere
June 9, Annapolis, Md., Rams Head on Stage