Biography
The name Brush Arbor originated with religious revival gatherings where participants thatched their temporary shelters with greenery to shield against rainfall. Brothers Jim Rice on vocals and Joe Rice on guitar and mandolin launched the group in San Diego in 1971. Victory in a KSON radio talent contest earned them a spot on a bill alongside Sonny James, Mel Tillis, and Bill Anderson. The performance yielded both a Capitol recording contract and an invitation to the Grand Ole Opry. Their self-titled debut appeared in 1972, with Brush Arbor 2 following the next year. A cover of “Proud Mary” that reached the Top 60 sparked strong regional popularity, resulting in regular appearances at Southern California attractions such as Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Sea World. An appearance on Dean Martin’s Music Country in 1973 preceded their biggest chart entry, the number-41 single “Brush Arbor Meeting.” ACM awards for Vocal Group of the Year and Touring Band of the Year soon followed. Monument issued Straight in 1977, which contained the minor hit “Get Down Country Music,” and the duo also performed on Hee Haw plus Canada’s Celebration broadcast. Jim and Joe maintained an active touring schedule until 1979, after which they restricted live work to occasional church concerts. Benson released the 1993 album What Does It Take?.
Albums
