Craig Hand   -  Biography

Born and raised in St. Augustine, Fla., Craig Hand heard plenty of traditional country growing up. His mother loved Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Marty Robbins and other classic artists. She also played guitar and introduced her son to the instrument at age 6. At 15, Hand started playing in bands while pursuing another passion -- bull riding in local rodeos. The two quickly converged as he worked as entertainment in exchange for not having to pay the entry fee. He also became a fan of Garth Brooks, Hank Williams Jr. and Randy Travis. After high school, he worked a local Opry opening for Bill Anderson, Ronnie McDowell, Stonewall Jackson, Mel Tillis and more. Soon, Nashville beckoned. After two years of learning how Nashville works, he returned to Florida to dedicate himself to performing. After recording a complete album, he ultimately signed with the newly formed Category 5 Records, after label founder Raymond Termini heard him performing in a St. Augustine diner -- just as a hurricane was approaching the area. Hand will release the album on Category 5 Records in 2006.