Richie McDonald

Country music star Richie McDonald said his music hasn’t changed music since leaving Lonestar two years ago to focus on his family and a solo career.

Being on his own just gives him the ability to schedule tour dates around his children’s school schedule.

The country star known for such hits as “I’m Already There,” “Amazed” and “Everything’s Changed” is using his gifts to give back to his new hometown by performing a benefit concert to support Branches Recovery Center in Murfreesboro.

For more than a year, McDonald and his family have called Murfreesboro home. 

“We love it,” he said. “We are still out in the country and still have our land.”

McDonald and his wife, Lorie, and children, Rhett, Mollie and Maisie formerly lived in Smith County. He said Murfreesboro still gives his family the country life but in close proximity to Nashville.

Even though he isn’t Garth Brooks or Tim McGraw, McDonald said he does get recognized in town. Fans often tell him how much they enjoy his music when he is out shopping or eating at a local restaurant.

McDonald admits that he likes the kind words and the attention he receives. He is glad, however, that he doesn’t have the kind of fame that garners the attention of paparazzi. 

“This is a good place to be for me,” he said.  “I can’t imagine having the paparazzi following me around. This is very comfortable.”

McDonald and his good friend and comedian Chonda Pierce are teaming up for an evening of entertainment to benefit Branches Recovery Center April 16 at 7 p.m. at New Vision Baptist Church, 1750 Thompson Lane. 

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 904-7170 or visiting www.branchesrecoverycenter.com. 

Branches Recovery Center is a Christian, faith-based counseling and recovery center for those dealing with addiction, depression, divorce and other issues.

Mike Courtney, executive director of Branches Recovery Center, said the center sees patients from all walks of life and doesn’t turn away patients based on their inability to pay.

“We hope that (the benefit) provides the funds that we need to offer counseling at a reduced rate and to provide support groups for the community,” he said.

Branches Recovery Center receives its funding through grants, churches and private donations. 

The center has eight licensed therapists who see about 300 clients a month.

“It is giving back to the community,” McDonald said of why he is donating his time to perform at the benefit concert. “It is something I always wanted to do. 

“I don’t get a lot of chances to play Murfreesboro,” he continued. “This is going to be fun for me to play in my own backyard and help out with a wonderful cause. I am looking forward to it.”

McDonald said he will perform hits from Lonestar, from his Christian album “I Turn To You” and his upcoming country album “Slow Down,” which is set to be released in June.

“I Turn To You” was recently nominated for Best Country Album at the 40^th annual Dove Awards.

McDonald doesn’t think his new album is that much different from his work with Lonestar. The songs are about his family and his faith. 

“There are songs that will make you laugh and songs that will make you cry,” he said.

“Just How Do I Stop” is McDonald’s first single release from the forthcoming CD. His recently penned song “Six-Foot Teddy Bear” is now hitting country radio stations.

His latest song is one that he can relate to, McDonald said. 

“I think I am a 6-foot teddy bear,” he said, adding that some men act rough and tough on the outside but when they are with their children they are a teddy bear.

Erin Edgemon can be reached at 869-0812 and at eedgemon@murfreesboropost.com.

Branches Recovery Center Benefit Concert

Featuring Richie McDonald and Chonda Pierce

April 16 at 7 p.m. at New Vision Baptist Church, 1750 Thompson Lane

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 615-904-7170 or at www.branchesrecoverycenter.com.