Doug Rudder was born in Mt. Sterling, Ky. 25 miles east of Lexington, Ky. His parents Espy and Lalah Rudder had five children, Doug was the middle child. His mother, who could play just about any instrument, sang with her sisters known as ”The Griffin Trio.” At age nine she bought him a ukulele. He would sing and play it every day. Doug's first live performance was playing for the Eastern Star, where his mother was a member. Lots of water has run under the bridge since then. Doug eventually moved to Nashville, Tn. to pursue his dream of becoming a singer/songwriter. He recalls going into a producers office on Music Row to pitch a couple of songs, and the producer said "Man, we need to get into the studio, you sound just like Johnny Cash." Doug was shocked because at that time he sounded more like John Denver. He was aware of the fact that some on Music Row might say anything to get you into the studio for a costly session. Believing this to be the case, he decided to get into the real estate business, putting music out of his mind. His career in real estate selling lasted 20 years. Then he and his wife started a real estate investment company known as "Rudder Enterprises". But music was still in his heart. He continued to write and sing. He has written songs with Ron Muir, Larry Miller, Mark Gray (who has written several hits for Alabama) and Marty Chambers. On Doug's country label, Ransom Note he released a CD on Marty Chambers, which was well received in 28 states, Canada and the United Kingdom. Doug is currently working on a Gospel CD to be release in early spring of 2010. Doug gives all the glory to Jesus, his personal Savior. Doug has three children. His oldest, Sabrina Rene' Cyrus, is married to Kevin (Kebo) Cyrus the brother of Billy Ray and uncle of Miley Cyrus. Sabrina was a back up singer for Merle Haggard in the late 1980's. Kebo, who is a great musician and singer, along, with Sabrina are currently touring and are booked for the year. Terry, his oldest son, is presently in the Artist Union (IATSE). He does lighting for shows in Nashville and Country Award Shows. Terry was with Johnny Paycheck for five years. Doug's youngest son Kris is in the Artist Union and does country shows. His wife, Laura, is always a shining light and backs him 100 percent.