Early Life and Education of Darius Rucker: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Darius Rucker. From birth to education, explore key events.

Darius Rucker is an American singer, musician, and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the band Hootie & the Blowfish. He co-founded the band in 1986 with fellow students at the University of South Carolina. The band achieved significant success, releasing five studio albums and charting six top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Rucker played a key role in the band's songwriting, co-writing most of their songs.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

May 13, 1966: Darius Rucker's Birth

On May 13, 1966, Darius Carlos Rucker was born. He is an American singer, musician, and songwriter.

Others born on this day/year

1986: Formation of Hootie & the Blowfish

In 1986, Darius Rucker became the lead singer of Hootie & the Blowfish, which he formed with Mark Bryan, Jim "Soni" Sonefeld, and Dean Felber while attending the University of South Carolina.

November 1992: Death of Rucker's Mother

In November 1992, Darius Rucker's mother died of a heart attack, inspiring Hootie & the Blowfish songs.

April 21, 1995: Birth of Daughter Carolyn Pearl Phillips

On April 21, 1995, Darius Rucker's girlfriend, Elizabeth Ann Phillips, gave birth to his first child, a daughter, Carolyn Pearl Phillips.

2000: Marriage to Beth Leonard

In 2000, Darius Rucker married Beth Leonard.

May 16, 2001: Birth of Daughter Daniela Rose

On May 16, 2001, Darius Rucker's first child with Beth Leonard, a daughter named Daniela Rose, was born.

October 27, 2004: Birth of Son Jack

On October 27, 2004, Darius Rucker and Beth Leonard had a son named Jack.

May 20, 2011: Commencement Address at MUSC

On May 20, 2011, Darius Rucker delivered the commencement address to the graduating class of the Medical University of South Carolina.

May 11, 2013: Commencement Speaker and Honorary Doctorate

On May 11, 2013, Darius Rucker was the speaker at the commencement ceremony for the University of South Carolina, where he also received an honorary doctorate of music.