Black country western rapper seeks stardom

NASHVILLE, March 3 (UPI) -- Troy Coleman, who goes by the name "Cowboy Troy," is trying to become the first African-American country music star since Charley Pride -- by rapping.

Coleman, who calls his style "hick-hop," is featured on an upcoming album from Big & Rich, the Nashville Tennessean reported Thursday.

Formed by "Big" Kenny Alphin and John Rich, the group now includes Coleman on its soon-to-be released "Horse of a Different Color" album.

Coleman has toured with Big & Rich and is a part of the so-called Muzik Mafia, which includes Gretchen Wilson.