DARBY LEDBETTER
This talented singer, songwriter, soldier, joined the National Guard in 2000 and is currently stationed at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas where he serves as an officer in the Recruiting & Retention Battalion. Darby is a combat veteran who has completed four tours in Southwest Asia. During each of these tours and while stateside, Darby has found ways to boost the spirits of the troops and inspire the public through leading bands and performing his original songs at both military and civilian events.
During his tour in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Darby formed the 3 Rivers Band with fellow soldiers and soon found himself entertaining troops at local concerts in Iraq. When The Charlie Daniels Band performed on the USO Tour, Darby and his band members were chosen to share the stage with Charlie, a relationship that remains today. As Darby has continued to travel and perform, his connection with audiences of all types has remained strong. Darby describes the National Guard as his family and when he’s on stage it’s evident that he takes pride in representing that family.
His song writing efforts have placed Darby alongside some of Nashville’s finest songwriters who have penned songs for Aaron Tippin, George Strait, Kenny Chesney and Tracy Byrd. Darby has performed with such artists as Rodney Atkins, Darryl Worley, Charlie Daniels, Tracy Lawrence, Brian White, Aaron Tippin, Eric Church, Mark Wills, and Jimmy Wayne.
In 2010, Darby co-wrote the National Guard tribute song “I Won’t Let My Guard Down,” with Nashville music industry veteran and producer Jeff Teague. A video of this high impact song, produced by NGB-ASM Strength Readiness Support Center earned an Emmy Award. “I Won’t Let My Guard Down” song and video have driven awareness for the National Guard by airing in major movie theaters chains and generating over 300,000 Guard and YouTube public views to date.
For bookings or more information, contact Artist & Repertoire (615) 613-0420, info@artandrep.com and visit www.darbyledbetter.com