The Chuck Wagon Gang

For Immediate Release

Family Member Shaye Smith Returns To The Chuck Wagon Gang

PIGEON FORGE, TN (Press Release) - The Chuck Wagon Gang is pleased to announce that Shaye Smith, the grand-daughter of the late Anna Carter Gordon Davis, the original alto singer for the Chuck Wagon Gang, will be returning full time to sing alto once again with the group.  Shaye first came to the Gang in 1993 as the soprano singer for the group, which was comprised of Roy Carter, Eddie Carter, and their sister, Ruth Ellen Carter Yates.  Some ten years ago she became the alto singer for the group, and two years ago she left the group to be with her young boys and attend to some family matters. 

“Truly, I’ve missed singing, the many fans and friends I’ve met along the way, and I have missed continuing the heritage and legacy that my family started over seventy-four years ago,” stated Shaye from her home in Hertford, NC.  “I knew I would be back with the group, I just did not know when and how the circumstances would unveil for my return.  I am just so happy to be returning!” 
 
“Shaye’s return is a wonderful blessing to begin the New Year,” said Dave Emery, manager, emcee, and guitarist for the group.  “I’ve looked forward to this time ever since she left, but I never thought it would be this soon.  Favorable circumstances just recently developed to make this possible.  With the Diamond 75^th Anniversary of The Chuck Wagon Gang just a year away, the timing could not be any better for the co-owner of the group to return!  We’re already working on a documentary for our 75^th anniversary, and her input as a family member is essential.”

While Shaye has been away, the alto position has been held by two of the finest singers to ever work with The Chuck Wagon Gang.  In recent times, Kelly Jennings, of Kingsport, TN was asked to step down so that Shaye could return.  Prior to Kelly, Penny Greene, from Morristown, TN sang for a little over two years.  "Penny and Kelly have done a great job and have maintained a great rapport with the fans, and we appreciate their contribution to the Chuck Wagon Gang legacy.  We wish them well in their future endeavors,” stated Dave Emery 

Shaye’s first appearance back with the group will be on Thursday, January 14^th in Murfreesboro, TN at Fair Havens Independent Baptist Church at 7:00 PM.   

The Chuck Wagon Gang, now in their 74th year as an organized group, currently operates out of Pigeon Forge, TN, with a Nashville office operated by Harold Timmons.  In addition to Shaye, the current members are Dave Emery, Julie Hudson, Stan Hill, and Joe Rotton.  In 1936, the original Chuck Wagon Gang landed a major recording contract.  They were associated with Columbia Records (now Sony Music) for 39 years, during which time the recorded over 400 songs, and sold nearly 40 million records for the label.  Their 1948 recording of “I’ll Fly Away” became a certified million selling single.  Currently recording for Song Garden Music group, the group’s current single, "Singing As I Go" from their release “Keep Travelin’ On” is currently being featured on radio throughout the country. 

For further information call 888-319-1021; for bookings Call Dave Emery 817-944-2538.