Donna Ulisse and Rick Stanley: “You and Me” – A Heartfelt Duet Forged in Sunday Morning Simplicity
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Donna Ulisse’s latest venture with Turnberry Records marks a significant chapter in her storied career, one of artistic reinvention and deeply personal expression. The release of “You and Me,” a duet with her husband Rick Stanley, exemplifies this new creative freedom, delivering a tender and authentic glimpse into their enduring partnership.
A Sunday Morning Inspiration: The Genesis of “You and Me”
Ulisse’s decision to self-produce this new music signals a bold step forward, allowing her to fully realize her artistic vision. The inspiration for “You and Me” emerged from a simple, yet profound moment: watching Rick Stanley prepare their Sunday morning breakfast. The aroma of frying bacon, a symbol of their shared life, sparked a wave of emotion, leading Ulisse to reflect on the enduring strength of their bond.
“I was sitting with my IPad in my lap, typing a post for my Wee Farm Musings when the aroma coming from the kitchen drew my attention. I don’t know, watching him prepare our breakfast kinda broke my heart in a good way. Our life has been about doing for each other and this yummy smelling proof made me think of what we are as a couple,” Ulisse shares.
This moment of quiet intimacy blossomed into a heartfelt song, with Stanley contributing a beautiful melody that perfectly complemented Ulisse’s lyrics. Their shared history of singing together, a natural extension of their life partnership, imbues “You and Me” with an undeniable authenticity.
A Duet of Harmony and Heart
The song’s essence lies in its simplicity and sincerity. Ulisse and Stanley’s voices blend seamlessly, creating a warm and comforting soundscape. The lyrics, rooted in everyday moments, celebrate the enduring power of love and companionship. “We started on this life’s journey, just the two of us and as we travel on it’s nice to know it’s still “You and Me”!” Ulisse aptly states, encapsulating the song’s central message.
The instrumentation, featuring Wanda Vick on fiddle and resonator guitar, Greg Davis on tenor guitar and banjo, Kevin Grant on upright bass, and Mark Beckett on drums, provides a tasteful and understated backdrop, allowing the vocals to shine. The production, helmed by Ulisse herself, is polished and professional, showcasing her keen ear for detail. Chris Latham’s engineering, mixing, and mastering at The Gorilla’s Nest Recording Studio in Nashville further enhance the song’s sonic quality.
Donna Ulisse: A Legacy of Musical Excellence
Donna Ulisse’s journey from demo singer to acclaimed bluegrass artist is a testament to her talent and perseverance. Her early career with Atlantic Records, followed by her transition to bluegrass, has solidified her reputation as a formidable singer-songwriter.
Key highlights of Donna Ulisse’s career:
- Early success with Atlantic Records, including television appearances on national shows.
- Acclaimed bluegrass career, marked by multiple album releases and critical recognition.
- International Bluegrass Music Association’s Songwriter of the Year (2016) and Song of the Year (2017) awards.
- Continued touring with her band, The Poor Mountain Boys.
Rick Stanley, with his deep roots in bluegrass royalty, brings his own musical pedigree to the duet. His songwriting prowess, evident in classics like “Hills of Home,” adds another layer of depth to “You and Me.” Together, Ulisse and Stanley’s songwriting workshops at their Wee Farm nurture the next generation of bluegrass talent.
“You and Me”: A Testament to Enduring Love
“You and Me” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of a life shared, a testament to the enduring power of love and partnership. It’s a song that resonates with its honesty and simplicity, inviting listeners to reflect on the meaningful connections in their own lives. With its release on March 21st, Turnberry Records is poised to share this beautiful duet with the world, a testament to the talent and heart of Donna Ulisse and Rick Stanley.