A Dollar Looked Mighty Good Valerie Smith Mid-tempo / Contemporary Bluegrass / Folk ISRC: TCAFQ2109635
Written by Valerie Smith, Ashley Lewis
Published by Buckle-Down Publishing, BMI ASHCACHE MUSIC PUBLISHING—BMI
Acoustic Guitar: Cody Kilby
Upright Bass: Evan Winsor
Fiddle: Steven Burwell
Mandolin: Andy Leftwich
Banjo: Tim Carter Harmony Vocals:

A Dollar Looked Mighty Good Valerie Smith Mid-tempo / Contemporary Bluegrass / Folk ISRC: TCAFQ2109635
Written by Valerie Smith, Ashley Lewis
Published by Buckle-Down Publishing, BMI ASHCACHE MUSIC PUBLISHING—BMI
Acoustic Guitar: Cody Kilby
Upright Bass: Evan Winsor
Fiddle: Steven Burwell
Mandolin: Andy Leftwich
Banjo: Tim Carter Harmony Vocals: Lisa Kay Howard Hughes, Wally Hughes Cover Art: Valerie Smith Photo: Maggie Brooks Ashley Lewis and Valerie Smith wrote this song based on Valerie’s great grandmother Maggie Brooks' journal. About seven years ago, the family discovered Maggie's journal in an old trunk located in her house in Plattsburg, MO. She had finally escaped from a violent marriage and learned to earn her own money by doing various jobs. Maggie became a very successful businesswoman in Plattsburg, MO., owning and operating a general store.She was pretty proud to earn her own dollars and rise above her many early life challenges. Many women can relate to her powerful story in today’s modern world.

DJ Steve Martin (Unreal Bluegrass, Syndicated Radio Program) states, "Valerie Smith seeks music in life. Renaissance rises from this search with stories of love, separation, celebration, overcoming, and devotion." Renaissance crosses through multiple musical genres while still staying true to the Valerie Smith sound that encompasses an acoustic flair with a touch of bluegrass and all with exceptional musicianship. The album was meticulously crafted and featured her long-time band Liberty Pike and esteemed guests, including Andy Leftwich, Rob Ickes, Donna Ulisse, Jerry Salley. There's even a stirring number featuring Gospel greats, The McCrary Sisters.”

The album is called Renaissance because in looking at the world and herself, Smith has been reborn. With themes including self-worth and acceptance and songs about love, finding love, acceptance, and regret, the project signifies Smith's journey in her life with optimism to which others can relate. The album includes upbeat, happy songs that encourage the listener to move to the groove and lush ballads with meaningful lyrics and melodies that grab the soul. Smith wrote two songs, and the remaining selections were carefully chosen from the works of other seasoned writers to best express what she wanted to say.