Michael Paul’s songs are classified as country crossover tunes, and his fans say that they’ll make you smile, dance and even bring a tear to your eyes.

These days, they’re probably doing that for Paul, too, as he prepares to realize a dream.

This weekend, the Oakley resident will once again take center stage at the Rusty Porthole on Bethel Island, where he’s appeared frequently with a number of local bands. This time, however, will be different. This time, “It’s Cowboy Time.”

That’s the name of the new CD the 51-year-old father, welder, fireman and search-and-rescue volunteer will release. The album, Paul’s first, is a collection of 10 original works composed by Paul and his wife, Tammy Mallett, with an occasion assist from their children.

“My wife co-wrote at least half of the songs, including the title track, ‘It’s Cowboy Time,’” Paul said. “We have made songwriting into a family thing at times. We would sit out on the back porch and try to find the right line or rhyme and the kids would get involved. That’s a lot of fun and one of my favorite ways to put a song together.”

Despite the fact that this is his first CD, Paul is hardly a newcomer to the music scene. He represented the Rusty Porthole last year in Laughlin, Nev. for the National Talent Quest Competition, where he placed in the top 20. He’s played the guitar and sung since his late uncle gave him a guitar at the age of 12. He’s played in numerous local bands over the years but took a hiatus from music to support his family.

“People would often say to me, ‘Why aren’t you doing something with your music?’ and I would always say, ‘I don’t know …’” Paul said. “Then one day my wife came to me and said, ‘You really love music and you’re really good at it, and I believe in you. I think it’s time you did something with it.’ After I pinched myself several times, we began to figure out how to make this happen.”

“I believe that everyone should follow their dream, if at all possible,” said Mallett. “I’ve watched Michael Paul grow so much with his music in the last 2 years and it’s awesome. If you ever get the chance to see him on stage, you’ll see exactly what I mean … he glows and his passion shines through. I can’t help but to be proud!”

The It’s Cowboy Time release party will be held this Saturday, Jan. 12 starting at 8 p.m. The address is 3895 Willow Road in Bethel Island.

For more information on Michael Paul or to hear some of his music, log on to www.cdbaby.com/michaelpaulsings.