Artist:Eighteen Mile Hometown: Central, South Carolina Latest Album:Peace Be Still (released June 12, 2026) Personal Nicknames (or rejected band names): We were almost “Campbell House.” Bert and Gretchen Campbell opened their home to us in our early days of traveling as a band. That is where our direction was set early, and a lot of our first songs were written as a band!
What other art forms – literature, film, dance, painting, etc. – inform your music?
We all come from families that placed a high value on art of various forms. If you come to any of our houses you will see paintings on the walls created by family members and we will be using handmade pottery mugs given to us by family and friends. Being surrounded by quality handmade art has always set the standard high for our music and all our art!
What has been the best advice you’ve received in your career so far?
You have to believe that the best music rises to the top. Work hard on creating the best songs that you can, and then work hard to create quality recordings. If you can keep believing the best music will rise to the top, then it lets you relax a little bit once you have given it your best!
Which elements of nature do you spend the most time with and how do they impact your work?
All of us love being in nature. Jack, our banjo player, is an avid outdoorsman and is known to bring a fly rod on tour. Hallie is a photographer and has jaw-dropping photos from backroads (and off-roads) throughout the Southeast. Savannah comes from a mountain-climbing family in Idaho, so I [Carson] have found myself being dragged along on all sorts of adventures now that we are married. All of this impacts our work because we, as primarily gospel bluegrass musicians, think a lot about how to reflect God’s creativity in our music. What better inspiration is there than to be in the original creation itself!
What is the most random interview question you’ve ever been asked?
On The Dailey & Vincent Show (sponsored by Springer Mountain Farms Chicken), we were asked what our favorite chicken recipe was. We weren’t quite ready for that one, and I don’t remember what I said. So tune in on August 8th, 2026, to find out!
If you didn’t work in music, what would you do instead?
We are all still working our non-music jobs in addition to our work with Eighteen Mile! In a lot of ways, we are doing the things that we find fulfilling. Hallie is a coach, Carson works for a software startup, Savannah is a stay-at-home mom, and Jack owns a painting startup – in addition to teaching banjo!
Welcome to our weekly collection of new music! You Gotta Hear This…
First thing today, you should know it’s a bluegrass-rich week in our roundup – which we love! The Binoculars start us off on a strong bluegrassy foot with their cover of “Lorene,” a Louvin Brothers song that will be included on the duo’s upcoming album, Double Whammy, out July 17. Like the Louvin Brothers themselves, the Binoculars do a great job of bridging rootsy sonic territories, country, bluegrass, old-time, and more. For a taste of bluegrass gospel, we’re celebrating the release of Eighteen Mile’s new album, Peace Be Still (out today), with the title track, written by vocalist and guitarist Jack Ritter. It’s fresh, modern bluegrass built on faith and tradition.
We’ve got several great fiddlers represented in our list today, too. A huge – and still-growing name – on the current bluegrass and jamgrass scene, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, is dropping her surname for a new era under a mononym, Bronwyn. Today, Bronwyn announces her upcoming album Rattlin’ Bones, her first LP under the new name, which will release in August. We’re sharing the track from which the LP draws its title, “Sticks and Stones.” It showcases the growth in Bronwyn’s songwriting over time – and features Darrell Scott. Plus, if you’re familiar with fiddler Libby Weitnauer, she’s now releasing music under the artist name Libby Dale. “Empty Tank,” which came out yesterday, is indie Americana with a Gothic, Appalachian undertone and excellent rootsy touches. Dale’s songwriting is impeccable and the production is built on a fascinating blend of roots styles.
An old-time and Americana favorite, Sophie Wellington, has unveiled a new single and video, “Scolding Wife.” Wellington has a new album coming in early July. This track and video showcase her unique, multi-hyphenate approach to music-making; it’s a simple, stripped-down arrangement featuring only guitar and percussion – provided by dance. It’s lovely and entrancing, no matter how basic or elemental in its construction. Singer-songwriter Kate Waters has a new song out this week, too. “Words” arrived on June 10, juxtaposing steel guitar, mandolin, and acoustic guitar in a folk-meets-string band-meets-Americana sound. It’s a contemplative lyric that searches inward and outward for the right thing to say.
You’ll enjoy the music video for the title track of Dailey & Vincent’s album, A Beautiful Life, released today. This feel-good song is the duo’s special way of sharing what they’re grateful for. We’re also thankful that Bill Anderson and Jon Randall (who co-wrote “Whiskey Lullaby”) teamed with Carrie Underwood to write it. And our own Justin Hiltner (editor of BGS and Good Country) and Jon Weisberger (BGS contributor) are back on the site again – for the first time since 2022 – as musicians and artists, rather than writer or editor. Hiltner & Weisberger just announced they’ve signed with Mountain Home Music Company to release music as a duo again. “Marinda” is their first single with Mountain Home, a song about a woman in California built on low-tuned long-neck banjo and an all-star band – that includes Libby Dale (Weitnauer) on fiddle, by chance, as well. We hope you enjoy the track and don’t mind the BGS team’s bias, we think these guys are pretty okay and, yeah… maybe, just maybe, You Gotta Hear This, too!
There’s plenty of bluegrass, Americana, old-time, and more to enjoy. Get scrolling and get listening– You Gotta Hear This!
The Binoculars, “Lorene”
Artist:The Binoculars Hometown: Brooklyn, New York Song: “Lorene” Album:Double Whammy Release Date: July 17, 2026 Label: Jalopy Records
In Their Words: “As huge fans of the Louvin Brothers, it’s hard to resist covering all of their songs. ‘Lorene’ really stood out to us, as a secular number and with a letter-writing theme! We both frequent the postal service for transmitting love letters and postcards. There is a spirit in handwritten letters that just can’t be replicated in a text or in the vacuum of social media. We find the lyrics strike an even more dynamic chord in these modern times, where rejection can be felt in a single swipe, and the appetite for approval and response is insatiable and aggressive. This song transports us to a slower more ponderous time, when that ache of not knowing your lover’s position gnaws at your heart. You can feel those empty mailbox blues.” – The Binoculars
Bronwyn, “Sticks and Stones”
Artist:Bronwyn Hometown: Charlottesville, Virginia Song: “Sticks and Stones” Album:Rattlin’ Bones Release Date: June 12, 2026 (single); August 14, 2026 (album)
In Their Words: “‘Sticks and Stones’ started coming to me a couple years ago as I was lying awake in the middle of the night, rolling down the road on the bus. It was a rough ride through the mountains, enough to rattle your bones, and some lines from the chorus started banging around in my head as I was drifting in and out of sleep. The chorus is the heart of this devil-may-care traveling song: ‘Sticks and stones/ Burning down the highway/ Rattling bones/ I don’t need no heartache/ I’ve been gathering a whole lotta sticks and stones…’
“‘Sticks and Stones’ has a hard-won swagger to it, a feeling borne out of years of being on the road as well as the requisite slight romanticism of it that keeps me going. That feeling is clearly heard in the last verse— ‘Heard a guy on a record singing walk that line/ He was saying what I’ve been thinking all my life/ Turned it up loud enough my truck began to shake.’ It’s self-sufficient, self-aware, and a little bit pissed off.” – Bronwyn
Track Credits: Bronwyn – Fiddle, lead vocal, songwriter Darrell Scott – Harmony vocal Harry Clark – Mandolin Bryan Sutton – Guitar Frank Evans – Banjo Jeff Picker – Bass
Dailey & Vincent, “A Beautiful Life”
Artist:Dailey & Vincent Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “A Beautiful Life” Album:A Beautiful Life Release Date: June 12, 2026 Label: Pillar Stone Records
In Their Words: “There are songs you record because they’re great songs, and then there are songs that become part of your story. ‘A Beautiful Life’ became that song for us. It captures so much of what we believe – that even through life’s challenges, we have so much to be thankful for.” – Jamie Dailey
“This song became the title track because it perfectly reflects where Jamie and I are today. We’ve been blessed beyond measure, and this lyric serves as a reminder to never take those blessings for granted. It’s a celebration of faith, family, friendship, and the gift of life itself.” – Darrin Vincent
Track Credits: Greg Morrow – Drums Craig Young – Bass Seth Taylor – Acoustic guitar Andy Leftwich – Fiddle, mandolin Michael Rojas – Piano James Mitchell – Electric guitar Jamie Dailey – Lead vocal Jaelee Roberts – Harmony vocal Darrin Vincent – Harmony vocal
In Their Words: “‘Empty Tank’ was inspired by recordings like Lucinda Williams’ ‘Crescent City’ and Emmylou Harris’ ‘Leaving Louisiana’ – both twisted anthems for less-than-perfect places. It’s an airing of grievances and a love letter for my life in Nashville. Pothole-riddled streets, the music industry rat race, and summer heat are certainly prominent characters, but so are good dances and a great band. Producer Thomas Bryan Eaton helped me bring this track to life with a fantastic rhythm section (Chris Gelb and Jonathan Beam) and the GRAMMY-winning mixing chops of Justin Francis. All parties mentioned brought the relentless groove and thunk I had envisioned for the song. ‘Empty Tank’ is the second single off my debut LP, Freehand, due in October of this year.” – Libby Dale
Eighteen Mile, “Peace Be Still”
Artist:Eighteen Mile Hometown: Upstate South Carolina Song: “Peace Be Still” Album:Peace Be Still Release Date: June 12, 2026 (album)
In Their Words: “I wrote ‘Peace Be Still’ on the better side of a bad year. While the tune was there, I struggled to find words that could convey my testimony throughout the song. The more I thought about my testimony and walk with Christ, the words came quickly and became what you hear today. I wanted this song to not only be a personal testimony of God’s grace and mercy, but a message to those who are struggling that my Lord and Savior can provide peace that is beyond all understanding. I’m so honored and never would have thought that a song I wrote would become the title track of our first album with Mountain Home. I’m so thankful to my friends for choosing it.” – Jack Ritter, lead vocalist, guitarist, songwriter
Track Credits: Jack Ritter – Acoustic guitar, lead vocal Hallie Ritter – Upright bass, harmony vocal Carson Aaron – Acoustic guitar, harmony vocal Savannah Aaron – Fiddle Steve Pettit – Mandolin Rob Ickes – Resonator guitar
Justin Hiltner & Jon Weisberger, “Marinda”
Artist:Justin Hiltner & Jon Weisberger Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee & Brevard, North Carolina Song: “Marinda” Release Date: June 12, 2026 Label: Mountain Home Music Company
In Their Words: “On a mountaintop in Western North Carolina I met a fabulous woman named Marinda. ‘Like Miranda, but with the letters swapped,’ I think she told me. She’s a great cook, made us a delicious lentil salad. Then she told me where she was from: Marin County, California. I couldn’t believe it. Marinda from Marin.
“There are so many bluegrass songs that take their titles from women’s names, I guess it was time Jon and I added such a track to our catalog of co-writes. I love how this one turned out, evoking iconic and familiar images of California and singing praises to a powerful, entrancing woman. She may be a fictionalized version of my friend Marinda, but her inspiration comes all the way through. I love the long-neck, low-tuned banjo here and the way the fiddle, banjo, and mandolin all join in together on the melodic hook. When I’m missing the Bay Area – or Marinda’s lentil salad – I play this tune.” – Justin Hiltner
(Editor’s Note: Justin Hiltner is the editor for BGS and Good Country, and Jon Weisberger is a former contributor to BGS.)
Kate Waters, “Words”
Artist:Kate Waters Hometown: Dallas and Houston, Texas, and Taos, New Mexico Song: “Words” Album:Some Comfort Release Date: June 10, 2026 (single); August 21, 2026 (album)
In Their Words: “This is the oldest song on the record, from my earliest stages of songwriting as an adult. I was wrestling with why I felt intimidated by writing lyrics, like words couldn’t ever fully capture what I wanted to say. I mean, that’s why I’m a musician, truly.
“The sentiment still holds true – words can do a lot, but they also fail a lot of the time. We see it so much these days, politically speaking – people talking past each other and never truly understanding one another. I’m a music therapist, and as someone who’s worked professionally with nonspeaking people for most of my professional life, I know how important it is to tune into other aspects of communication and human connection.” – Kate Waters
Sophie Wellington, “Scolding Wife”
Artist:Sophie Wellington Hometown: Staunton, Virginia Song: “Scolding Wife” Album:Her Bright Smile Haunts Me Still Release Date: June 8, 2026 (single); July 10, 2026 (album) Label: Adhyâropa Records
In Their Words: “This fiddle tune has complex phrasing and tells an intriguing melodic story. Marion Reece, the source fiddler for this tune, plays this in calico tuning (AEAC#) which give it haunting, suspended quality. While I can’t remember where I first learned this tune, I fell in love with it again in 2025 when playing it with Sally Jablonsky and Stefan Amidon at Cascade of Music and Dance, a social dance camp run by Country Dance & Song Society. We played this tune late into the night, locking in with one another and allowing the space to breathe and the notes to sing. For me, old-time music shines brightest in my friendships and shared memories of playing. I’m fascinated with how to best adapt this music for guitar, allowing it to feel fluid and free on that instrument.” – Sophie Wellington
Track Credits: Sophie Wellington – Guitar, percussive dance
Video Credits: Pat Piasecki and Chris Dempsey, with special thanks to Barbara Hauser.
Photo Credit: Bronwyn by Alexa King Stone; Sophie Wellington by Pat Piasecki.
Get ready to enjoy some excellent new roots music – bluegrass, country, blues, and more.
To start us off and get us in a romantic holiday mood, the Bibelhauser Brothers from Kentucky offer their bluegrass rendition of John Prine’s “Glory of True Love.” Releasing, appropriately, on Valentine’s Day, the song reinforces just how well suited Prine originals are to the bluegrass treatment – it doesn’t have to just be “Paradise”! Following up with his own cover of a country classicist, banjo picker Frank Evans pulls together an all-star cast for a live video performance of Roger Miller’s “TJ’s Last Ride.” Evans released the single studio version last week, following it up with Shad Cobb, Thomas Cassell, Mike Bub, and Jimmy Stewart joining him for the excellent live video of the track.
For a bit of gospel, Eighteen Mile releases a new single today, “Living Waters,” showing yet again the deep connections between bluegrass and sacred music. It’s a thoughtful, contemplative, and inspiring breath of fresh air – or, perhaps, a refreshing sip of cool, living waters. Plus, singer-songwriter Thomm Jutz brings us a live performance video of a new bluesy, original track, “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Blues,” just voice and tender fingerpicked, acoustic blues in duet. Jutz reflects on the undying temptation of such vices and how the low points they often bring can be a vehicle to better things. “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Blues” heralds Jutz’s upcoming solo album, Ring-A-Bellin’, arriving in April.
To close us out, Nashville honky-tonkin’ staples – and life partners – Hannah Juanita & Mose Wilson have a brand new EP and with it, a video for the title track, “If I Ever Lost You.” Gauzy and retro, Juanita and Wilson put on throwback styles and sounds without it feeling contrived or gratuitous – while all decked out in countrified wedding garb. It makes perfect sense, as they explain, “As we prepare to wed this year, the lyrics hit especially close to home. We drew inspiration from the greats who paved the road: George & Tammy, Loretta & Ernest, Red & Kitty, keeping their timeless storytelling at the core.”
There’s plenty to boot-scoot to below, so get scrolling! You Gotta Hear This…
Bibelhauser Brothers, “Glory Of True Love”
Artist:Bibelhauser Brothers Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky Song: “Glory of True Love” Release Date: February 14, 2026 Label: Common Loon Records
In Their Words: “‘Glory Of True Love’ has been a part of our repertoire during live shows for many years with the Bibelhauser Brothers. It’s a beautiful feeling to ‘grass up’ such a timeless tale of love, written by one of the most prolific songwriters of his generation, John Prine. Recording this single has been a really special way to follow up since dropping our full-length record, Down the Road, including mostly original songs just four months prior, as our band and our signature sound has evolved. This is our first recording featuring Boston, Kentucky, native Turner Hutchens on mandolin, with Jeff Guernsey tracking twin fiddles, Steve Cooley on banjo, Adam on bass, and Aaron singing and playing guitar. We hope you enjoy our own Bibelhauser Brothers spin on this John Prine classic, with more music to come soon!” – Bibelhauser Brothers, Aaron and Adam
Track Credits: Aaron Bibelhauser – Vocal, guitar Adam Bibelhauser – Bass Steve Cooley – Banjo Turner Hutchens – Mandolin Jeff Guernsey – Fiddles
Eighteen Mile, “Living Waters”
Artist:Eighteen Mile Hometown: Upstate South Carolina Song: “Living Waters” Release Date: February 13, 2026
In Their Words: “In the Bible, there is a story commonly called the story of the ‘woman at the well.’ In that story, Jesus is talking to a lady who was married five times, likely abused and abandoned in those relationships before eventually becoming an outcast in her society. Jesus, using an analogy, called himself the ‘living water’ and said that she could believe in him and be completely, eternally fulfilled. C.S. Lewis famously said, ‘If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.’ This song captures the heart behind everything Eighteen Mile does. We want people to experience and find complete fulfillment in Jesus, the ‘Living Waters.'” – Carson Aaron
Track Credits: Hallie Ritter – Upright bass, harmony vocal Carson Aaron – Acoustic guitar, harmony vocal Emily Guy – Lead vocal Jack Ritter – Acoustic guitar Savannah Aaron – Fiddle Andy Leftwich – Mandola Steve Pettit – Mandolin Rob Ickes – Resonator guitar
Frank Evans, “TJ’s Last Ride”
Artist:Frank Evans Hometown: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Song: “TJ’s Last Ride” Release Date: February 6, 2026 Label: Englehardt Music Group
In Their Words: “I’ve loved Roger Miller’s music since childhood, from the Robin Hood soundtrack to constant car rides with his greatest hits, which made choosing one of his songs feel natural. ‘TJ’s Last Ride’ stood out for its Hartford-like imagery and the mournful warmth of a Stanley Brothers ballad. In the session, we agreed to keep it simple – the take you hear is almost entirely the third run-through. I was honored to record it with Casey Campbell, Mike Bub, Justin Moses, Shad Cobb, and Jake Stargel.” – Frank Evans
Video Performance Credits: Frank Evans – Banjo, vocals Jimmy Stewart – Dobro, vocals Mike Bub – Bass Thomas Cassell – Mandolin Shadd Cobb – Fiddle Jake Stargel – Guitar
Video Credits: Videographer – Kyle Horan Video Editor – Frank Evans
Thomm Jutz, “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Blues”
Artist:Thomm Jutz Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Blues” Album:Ring-A-Bellin’ Release Date: February 13, 2026 (single); April 3, 2026 (album)
In Their Words: “Going on the road at 19 was the perfect way to live at the time. No responsibilities but to make it to the next gig. Do what you know how to do and move on. That way of living follows its own archetypal patterns, that’s why it doesn’t matter where you are, you could be going up and down the Mississippi River in 1898 or the damn Autobahn in Germany in 1998.
“There’s always somebody waiting to play another game, frequently with a bottle of booze. For some people, that charm never wears off. It did for me. I got sick of the people I was with, sick of myself for sitting down at the table to play their game.
“As it turned out, that part wasn’t over when I moved to Nashville – as it turned out, it was necessary, so better things could come.” – Thomm Jutz
Hannah Juanita & Mose Wilson, “If I Ever Lost You”
Artist:Hannah Juanita & Mose Wilson Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “If I Ever Lost You” Album:If I Ever Lost You (EP) Release Date: February 13, 2026
In Their Words: “‘If I Ever Lost You’ is a love letter to the golden era of country delivered in a classic, heartfelt shuffle. It’s our first co-release and our first duet, built from years of collaboration and crafted as a performance we both get to share on stage. The song speaks from the heart; love is everything when it’s here, and its absence is everything we fear. As we prepare to wed this year, the lyrics hit especially close to home. We drew inspiration from the greats who paved the road: George & Tammy, Loretta & Ernest, Red & Kitty, keeping their timeless storytelling at the core.” – Hannah Juanita & Mose Wilson
Track Credits: Hannah Juanita – Vocals Mose Wilson – Guitar, vocals Jeff Taylor – Piano Norbert McGettigan III – Bass Matty Meyer – Drums Ryan Stigmon – Pedal steel
Photo Credit: Thomm Jutz by Don VanCleave; Frank Evans by Scott Simontacchi.
Hear ye, hear ye! A fresh collection of new music, premieres, videos, singles, and more is here. You Gotta Hear This…
To start off, Good Country purveyors, Texan duo Briscoe, offer a brand new music video for “Free.” It’s a track from their new album inspired by lessons learned by Truett Heintzelman from his grandfather, as well as an ode to the Texas roots he shares with his grandad – and with his bandmate, Philip Lupton, too. Also bringing a newly minted video, singer-songwriter Rachael Sage and her band the Sequins celebrate love, friendships, and togetherness on “Belong To You.” The adorable music video was created by hosting an open casting call inviting participants to arrive and join in the taping with whomever they “love the most.” Sidle up to your loved ones and click play.
Bluegrass guitar great Bryan Sutton sits down with mandolinist Sierra Hull for a new rendition of an instrumental classic, “Grandfather’s Clock,” this week, too. But, this time, Hull is playing a six-string instead. Did you know she’s an equally accomplished guitar picker? Meanwhile, Sutton quite fittingly performs the tune on a guitar once owned by his own grandpa. Elsewhere, you’ll find South Carolina-based gospel bluegrass band Eighteen Mile sharing a new single below. “What Mercy Means” is an excellent example of how the long relationship between gospel and sacred music and bluegrass and old-time continues today.
Keep scrolling, though, because we have two more videos for you to enjoy. If you have young roots music fans around – or if you’re young at heart – the Okee Dokee Brothers have an adorable new animated music video for their track, “Little Old You.” Sure, the Brothers make children’s music, but this is listenable at all ages, that’s for sure. The message of the track is sweet and timely, as they put it: “…We’re [all] infinitely big in all our little ways.”
And, finally, the cosmic and (literally) magical Valerie June has a new single out this week and an accompanying visualizer you won’t want to miss. “Rollin’ and Tumblin'” is raucous, impassioned, and brash – just how we like June’s music – and demonstrates yet again how complex and inviting this indie-string-folk mastermind can be. Especially when she brings the blues and the banjo together in exciting ways like this.
There’s plenty to watch and hear, so let’s get to it! ‘Cause seriously, You Gotta Hear This.
Briscoe, “Free”
Artist:Briscoe Hometown: Austin, Texas Song: “Free” Album:Heat of July Release Date: September 19th, 2025 (album); November 14, 2025 (video) Label: ATO Records
In Their Words: “I’ve learned a great deal of lessons from my grandfather and the life that he lived so well. He was chock full of wisdom and always keen to share that wisdom with me and my siblings. Perhaps the most important thing he taught me was the art of moderation and the joy in being content with what you have. ‘Free’ is an ode to him and the Texas roots we both share, as well as a reminder for people of all walks to savor a life lived right down the middle.” – Truett Heintzelman
Artist:Valerie June Hometown: Humboldt, Tennessee (now Memphis, Tennessee and New York, New York) Song: “Rollin’ and Tumblin'” Release Date: November 12, 2025 (single) Label: Concord
In Their Words: “Working with producer and bassist Matt Marinelli and drummer Andy Macleod brings a wild, rambunctious twist to this old blues standard, “Rollin’ and Tumblin’.” I love taking the banjo out of its traditional comfort zone and driving it into a raw, heavy, metallic space – like someone tossing and turning through sleepless nights until they finally let go.
“Decades of digging into how the blues bleeds into every style have taught me one thing – those roots never die. Every time I twist that sound through my own work, I find new ways to grow and let those old ghosts roar again.” – Valerie June
Track Credits: Valerie June – Vocals, banjo Matt Marinelli – Basses, producer, engineer Andy Macleod – Drums
Video Credits: Filmed at Magnolia Pearl in Fredericksburg, Texas by Brights and in Big Sur, California by Dr. Ietef Vita.
Eighteen Mile, “What Mercy Means”
Artist:Eighteen Mile Hometown: Upstate South Carolina Song: “What Mercy Means” Release Date: November 14, 2025
In Their Words: “I’ve always been intrigued by the mental picture of Moses climbing up Mount Sinai to meet God in Exodus 34.The Bible paints a picture that the mountain was dark and terrifying and it even describes earthquakes and thunder, all because the holy presence of God was there. I wrote this song to capture the divine tension of a powerful holy God meeting an unholy man. The song then relates the Bible story to my personal story, that even though I deserve the punishment that comes from being a sinner before a holy God, he surprises me with overflowing mercy every morning instead.” – Carson Aaron
Track Credits: Hallie Ritter – Upright bass Carson Aaron – Acoustic guitar, lead vocal, songwriter Emily Guy – Harmony vocal Jack Ritter – Banjo, harmony vocal Savannah Aaron – Fiddle Andy Leftwich – Mandolin, mandola, acoustic guitar Steve Pettit – Mandolin
The Okee Dokee Brothers, “Little Old You”
Artist:The Okee Dokee Brothers Hometown: Denver, Colorado Song: “Little Old You” Album:Little Old You Release Date: November 11, 2025 (video); November 7, 2025 (album) Label: Okee Dokee Music
In Their Word: “This tune is a special one for us. It reminds us that we’re infinitely big in all our little ways. Even our tiniest feelings ripple like oceans, our dreams comfort the night, and our smiles can light the way for others.” – Justin Lansing
“It’s a gentle anthem to our place in the cosmos – showing that our smallest actions have big effects. We are silly and wise, young and old, and infinitely big in all our little ways.” – Joe Mailander
Track Credits: Justin Lansing – Vocals, guitar Joe Mailander – Vocals, guitar Dean Jones – Organ
Video Credits: Directed by Jack Carr. Art Directed by Zachariah Ohora. Animated by Tom Jolliffe & David Jenkins.
Rachael Sage & The Sequins, “Belong to You”
Artist:Rachael Sage & The Sequins Hometown: Hudson Valley, New York Song: “Belong To You” Album:Canopy Release Date: November 14, 2025 Label: MPress Records
In Their Words: “‘Belong To You’ is the first song I’ve intentionally composed as a gospel ballad. It meant the world to me that many of The Sequins ended up singing on the arrangement, rather than me performing all the harmonies myself (as has often been the case). Kevin J. Killen’s soulful Hammond organ and guitar playing and Will Wilde’s incredible blues harmonica add so much; Dave Eggar’s cello performance keeps everything grounded so beautifully.We all genuinely feel so much love and devotion for one another, so the vibe that was captured via our friendships really mirrors the lyrics and adds so many beautiful layers of emotion.
“Because it’s one of the more universal songs on the record, it’s been really magical to perform it live, and have audience members at the gigs share their individual interpretations of it with us. Trina Hamlin, who also sings on the track, has been singing it with me live lately and it makes it very easy to sing about unconditional love and friendship when one of your best friends is harmonizing with you!” – Rachael Sage
Track Credits: Rachael Sage – Lead vocals, background vocals, piano Doug Yowell – Drums Dave Eggar – Cello Kerry Brooks – Upright bass Will Wilde – Harmonica Kevin J. Killen – Acoustic guitar, electric guitar, Hammond B3 organ, background vocals Trina Hamlin – Background vocals Mikhail Pivovarov – Background vocals
Video Credits: Jenny He – Director, producer Shadow Play Pictures, LLC. – Production company MPress Records – Executive producer
Bryan Sutton, “Grandfather’s Clock” (with Sierra Hull)
Artist:Bryan Sutton with Sierra Hull Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “Grandfather’s Clock” Album:From Roots to Branches Release Date: November 14, 2025 (single) Label: Mountain Home Music Company
In Their Words: “I’m so happy to have Sierra Hull on this record. We chose the song, ‘Grandfather’s Clock,’ just because it’s a classic, beautiful melody. A lot of people know what a great mandolin player Sierra is, but I’ve always known what a great guitar player she is. This song meant a lot to us and, in fact, I’m playing my grandfather’s old Martin 0-17 guitar on this track.” – Bryan Sutton
“Bryan is one of my favorite musicians in the world to listen to and make music with. He knows how to elevate any musical situation he enters. Whether he is supporting a simple melody with pure tone and restraint or providing a wave of rhythmic brilliance and musical playfulness to ride along with, he always knows how to make things feel and sound easy. He’s one of my biggest heroes, so I’m both honored and thrilled to get to be a part of this new duets project with him!” – Sierra Hull
Our new music and premiere roundup is ready and waiting for you, ’cause You Gotta Hear This!
Bluegrass gospel group Eighteen Mile from upstate South Carolina have released their very first single, “Above The Clouds” today. Dripping with rich harmony vocals, the track offers encouragement to anyone experiencing doubt, anxiety, and pain. Supergroup neo-folk assemblage Geckøs – featuring Howe Gelb, Mark McCausland (AKA McKowski), and M. Ward – dropped a new single earlier this week, as well. “Lo Hice” started as an instrumental number, but morphed and changed when it reached the group, ending up as one of their favorite tracks on the upcoming album.
Guitar greats Larry Keel and Jon Stickley have joined forces on a new project; their self-titled EP will be available in just a week. To mark the occasion, we’ve got a sneak preview of one of the tracks from that collection, “Take the Air,” featuring just two guitars in an exciting and engaging instrumental dialogue. Singer-songwriter – and Sister Sadie band member – Jaelee Roberts has released her brand new solo album today, sharing its title track below. “Let Me Be Lonely” was written by Kelsi Harrigill (formerly of Flatt Lonesome) and hit country writer Wyatt McCubbin and it showcases Roberts’ love of traditional country sounds.
Don’t miss another country sensation, Gwen Levey, too, who shares a brand new music video for “Lighter,” the title track from her upcoming EP that is another excellent anthem for survivors of systems of violence. Beginning with subdued solo guitar and voice, the song soars into crisp modern country that will certainly have you feeling… lighter.
It’s all right here on BGS and You Gotta Hear This!
Eighteen Mile, “Above The Clouds”
Artist:Eighteen Mile Hometown: Upstate South Carolina Song: “Above The Clouds” Release Date: August 29, 2025
In Their Words: “I wrote ‘Above The Clouds’ during a season when I was wrestling with uncertainty and learning to trust God more deeply. The song became a reminder to myself that no matter what we face – doubt, anxiety, or pain – God is steady and present above it all. I wanted the music to feel hopeful, something that lifts listeners up and reminds them that the sun still shines above every storm.” – Hallie Ritter
“We hope this song is an encouragement to listeners in all areas of life who may be dealing with clouds of doubt, pain, and anxieties. The sun will always shine above the clouds.” – Eighteen Mile
Track Credits: Hallie Ritter – Upright bass, lead vocal, songwriter Carson Aaron – Acoustic guitar, mandolin, harmony vocal Emily Guy – Harmony vocal Jack Ritter – Acoustic guitar Savannah Aaron – Fiddle Andy Leftwich – Mandolin
Geckøs, “Lo Hice”
Artist:Geckøs Hometown: Tucson, Arizona; Portland, Oregon; and Omagh, Ireland Song: “Lo Hice” Album:Geckøs Release Date: August 26, 2025 (single); September 26, 2025 (album) Label: Org Music and PIAPTK Records
In Their Words: “‘Lo Hice’ is a song that started off in Ireland as an instrumental track. The bare bones was written specifically with Matt in mind to see if it perked his ears enough to finish it off. He picked it up and breathed brand new life into it. The song came alive with his voice and slide guitar and his Spanish lyrics took it to a whole new world. One of the beautiful things about Geckøs is I’m slowly learning how to speak the Spanish tongue, or at least I know how to say things like, ‘It’s fucking hot outside.’ We finished the song together in Bristol with John Parish driving the ship, and the puzzle was complete. It’s become one of my favourite tracks on the album. Definitely in the top eleven.” – Mark McCausland (AKA McKowski)
Larry Keel and Jon Stickley, “Take the Air”
Artist:Larry Keel and Jon Stickley Hometown: Lexington, Virignia (Larry); Asheville, North Carolina (Jon) Song: “Take the Air” Album:Larry Keel and Jon Stickley (EP) Release Date: September 5, 2025
In Their Words: “‘Take the Air’ is one of those musical ideas that came to me like a gift. It’s based on a happy riff that I would play every time I picked up my guitar during the height of COVID lockdown. It was such a time of stress and anxiety, yet I also experienced so much connection with the world around me. When life slowed down, the planes stopped flying overhead, and the wheels of the world stopped turning, suddenly everything in the natural world felt so much more alive. I posted a short video of myself playing it one day and got a text from Larry shortly after saying, ‘Hey man, let’s do some duo shows someday.’ It took about four years, but we’re finally making it happen. The arrangement of this tune purposely leaves some space to take a breath. I hope listeners find it as uplifting as I do.” – Jon Stickley
Track Credits: Larry Keel – 2008 Andrew White handcrafted parlor style guitar Jon Stickley – Preston Thompson D-EIA acoustic guitar
Gwen Levey, “Lighter”
Artist:Gwen Levey and The Breakdown Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “Lighter” Album:LIGHTER Release Date: August 29, 2025 (single); October 24, 2025 (EP) Label: GAL Productions
In Their Words: “If my previous EP, Not The Girl Next Door, was about all of the toxicity I was experiencing the first few decades of my life, ‘Lighter’ is about shedding all that sh*t and stepping into my healing era. The EP represents the light I’ve been able to find to carry me through some very dark days. The two-and-a-half minute song is an upbeat anthem as a survivor of not only an eating disorder, but of overcoming abuse and life’s tribulations, and my hope in writing it is that other survivors will also feel empowered.
“Being a survivor has given me the voice I have today. I co-founded Rise Above Justice Movement, a coalition of survivors impacted by systems of violence. The theme song for RAJM is ‘Barefoot & Pregnant,’ my viral pro-choice country anthem that has amassed over 20 million views, won several awards, and will premiere on PBS this summer. To this day, RAJM has several notable followers, including Rosie O’Donnell, the founder of the MeToo movement Tarana Burke, Alanis Morissette, and many others. ‘Lighter’ will be another anthem for our survivor movement.” – Gwen Levey
Jaelee Roberts, “Let Me Be Lonely”
Artist:Jaelee Roberts Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Song: “Let Me Be Lonely” Album:Let Me Be Lonely Release Date: August 29, 2025
In Their Words: “‘Let Me Be Lonely’ is one of my favorite songs on the album for sure! I am such a huge lover of classic/traditional country music and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t listen to it. I am beyond excited that I got to record a song that allowed me to give a nod to that sound. My friend and mentor, Kelsi Harrigill, sent me the demo of ‘Let Me Be Lonely’ that she wrote with hit country songwriter Wyatt McCubbin, and I knew before I’d even gotten halfway through the first listen that I absolutely had to put it on my album. As I’ve mentioned several times, I love sad songs with my whole heart, and this song has all the ingredients that make the perfect sad country song – lyrically and melodically. Kelsi and Wyatt joined me on this recording singing harmony vocals, which just topped it off for me. There is steel and fiddle on this track (which are my favorite instruments), and I sure hope that y’all enjoy my little tip of the hat to the trad country music that I love so much!” – Jaelee Roberts
Track Credits: Jaelee Roberts – Lead vocal Kelsi Harrigill – Harmony vocal Wyatt McCubbin – Harmony vocal Byron House – Bass Cody Kilby – Guitar Andy Leftwich – Mandolin Ron Block – Guitar Stuart Duncan – Fiddle Russ Pahl – Steel guitar John Gardner – Percussion
Photo Credit: Larry Keel and Jon Stickley by Lexi Simcic; Gwen Levey by Meaghan Campbell.
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