Diamond Resorts International Names Country Music Artist Colt Ford Brand Ambassador

Diamond Resorts International (NYSE: DRII), a global leader in the hospitality and vacation ownership industries, announces a new alliance and sponsorship arrangement with country music star Colt Ford.

As a part of the agreement, Ford will perform live concerts and make personal appearances at Diamond's increasingly popular Events of a Lifetime, delivering a new way for Diamond members, owners and guests to Stay Vacationed. The one-time pro golfer turned musician will also wear Diamond branded apparel at all his golf appearances and tournaments throughout 2015.

"It's an exciting time to be a part of what Diamond Resorts International is doing. Through their Events of a Lifetime program, they are redefining the hospitality industry and I am honored to be a part of the experience. I look forward to representing the Diamond brand and introducing a whole new element to these VIP events through my passion for music," said Ford.

Joining the ever-expanding roster of celebrity ambassadors, good old country boy Ford introduces a new dynamic to Events of a Lifetime through his edgy and bold spin on country music. He is the first musician to represent Diamond, alongside a roster of high-profile celebrities such as baseball Hall of Famers Reggie Jackson and Gaylord Perry, PGA touring professionals Brian Gay and John Cook, and Super Bowl XXVI MVP Mark Rypien.

According to Michael Flaskey, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Diamond Resorts International, "We are proud to announce this sponsorship arrangement. Colt Ford is an extremely talented and entertaining musician who brings high energy to every performance. Our members, owners and guests are sure to enjoy our new Events of a Lifetime concert experiences."

In 2012, Ford penned two #1 hits: Jason Aldean's "Dirt Road Anthem," and Brantley Gilbert's "Country Must Be Country Wide." His album, "Declaration of Independence," topped the Billboard Top Country Album Chart at #1, and was followed by his new release, "Thanks For Listening," in July 2014. "Thanks For Listening" charted at #1 on Billboard's Independent Albums, #1 on Billboard's Rap Albums chart, #2 on Billboard's Top Country Albums Chart and #10 on The Billboard 200 Albums chart.

To date, Ford has sold over 1 million albums, millions more song downloads, has 300,000 Twitter followers, 1.6 million Facebook Likes and over 100 million YouTube views. Ford was also featured in a two-page cover story in the "Arena" section of the Wall Street Journal (July 2013). In October 2013, Ford hit the road on a 34-city tour with Florida Georgia Line, and toured with Toby Keith last fall. In addition to being a gifted songwriter and artist, Ford is also a former professional golfer, and resides with his family in Athens, Ga. Follow at www.coltford.com; twitter.com/coltford; facebook.com/coltford

About Diamond Resorts International

Diamond Resorts International (NYSE: DRII), with its network of more than 330 vacation destinations located in 34 countries throughout the continental United States, Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, Central America, Europe, Asia, Australasia and Africa, provides guests with choice and flexibility to let them create their dream vacation, whether they are traveling an hour away or around the world. Our relaxing vacations have the power to give guests an increased sense of happiness and satisfaction in their lives, while feeling healthier and more fulfilled in their relationships, by enjoying memorable and meaningful experiences that let them Stay Vacationed.

Diamond Resorts International manages vacation ownership resorts and sells vacation ownership points that provide members and owners with Vacations for Life at over 330 managed and affiliated properties and cruise itineraries.