Duane Steele may be a good ol' country boy at heart, but the call of the city proved too enticing.

After spending a few years living in his country home just outside Nashville, the Alberta-born country singer moved back to the Tennessee capital early last year.

"I love the countryside," says Steele, from a hotel room in Toronto, "but I moved back to Nashville for my music."

Steele's second CD, This is the Life has done well for the singer, whose debut P.O. Box 423 spawned five hit singles, including Anita Got Married and Two Names on an Overpass.

He attributes part of his success to his heartfelt and sometimes humorous lyrics, often written with Jon Robbin whom he met at a songwriter's night at Nashville's famous Bluebird Cafe.

"We have a lot in common," says Steele.

"I think that's why we hit it off right away. He's a great writer and I enjoy working with him."

Steele says although the partnership will continue, he has been busy writing several new songs himself for the next album.

Nashville has proved to be a productive work environment for Steele, who performs at Outlaws Sunday night.

"It's a great place for songwriting," he says.

"It's a small place -- really hot! -- and everyone's very supportive of each other.

"Everyone's really focused on songwriting and music here," he says.