# What happened Diamond Rio announced a four-song EP called America Works, due November 13 via Rio Records 2.0 / One Riot Records. The band released the EP's title track immediately and premiered an accompanying music video directed by drummer Micah Schweinsberg.
# Why it matters
# What the title track and video show The song "America Works," written by Jimmy Olander and Jeffrey East, centers on Americans showing up for each other through service, sacrifice and everyday selflessness. The video was filmed in part at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and features military personnel as well as people connected personally to the band: family members, friends and crew. The narrative follows three people at different life stages navigating personal challenges and serving others, giving the song's themes a visual through-line.
# New vocal spotlight for Carson McKee Diamond Rio will release "Other Side Of The World" on October 16. Written by Olander, Marty Roe and Heather Morgan, the song was inspired by Roe's daughter moving to Australia to study at Hillsong College. It's recorded as a duet with new band member Carson McKee sharing lead vocals alongside Roe. McKee also sings lead on the EP track "Pink Guitar," written by Olander, Hayley McLean and Josh Shilling. At 24, McKee's presence on lead vocals marks a notable step for the band's newer lineup.
# Production and release details All four EP songs were produced and co-written by Jimmy Olander. The collection includes the previously released instrumental "The Kick," which introduced the band's two newest members together on a recording. Micah Schweinsberg wrote and directed the EP's music videos, with the title-track video scheduled to premiere on The Heartland Network's Country Music Today in the evening slot, and the band hosting a Facebook Live session at 5:30 p.m. ET to discuss the project and answer fans' questions.
# What to expect next
- October 16: "Other Side Of The World" single release.
- November 13: Full America Works EP release, featuring four tracks: "America Works," "Other Side Of The World," "Pink Guitar," and "The Kick."
Diamond Rio's announcement ties new material to personal stories, military representation and the band's evolving lineup, including spotlight moments for newer members while keeping production in-house under Olander's direction.