Tag: playlist

10 of the Best Jo Dee Messina Songs

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

It’s been a minute since Jo Dee Messina graced us all with an album of new material.

The flame-haired singer from Framingham, Massachusetts, made an immediate splash on the country music scene with her self-titled 1996 debut. Her 1998 sophomore set, I’m Alright, was even more successful. Messina became the first female country artist to have three multiple-week, chart-topping singles from the same album. Burn, which arrived in 2000, was also a smash, delivering the popular title track and the Tim McGraw collaboration, “Bring on the Rain.”

Admittedly, Messina has been less prolific over the past 25 years or so. Her fourth studio outing, Delicious Surprise, came out in 2005. Record company challenges preceded the release of Unmistakable, which was supposed to be her next album; instead, it wound up being a series of three EPs. Her next proper studio album, which was simply called Me, did not appear until 2014.

Messina returned on June 5 with her long-awaited sixth album, Bridges, released through her own label. She has weathered a number of personal and professional ups and downs in the dozen years between the new album and Me – and some of that is reflected in the lyrics of her new songs. Bridges is Messina’s most personal disc to date, and she wrote (or cowrote) all but one of its 11 songs herself.

To coincide with the release of Bridges, and to celebrate her being our Artist of the Month, we’ve gathered 10 of Jo Dee Messina’s best songs – from her debut to the present.

“Some Bridges” (2026)

The track that inspired the title of her new album, “Some Bridges” is a slow-building statement of purpose and offers hard-won perspective. “Some bridges are meant to build,” sings Messina. “But some bridges are meant to burn.”

“Message In A Bottle” (2026)

Also from Bridges, “Message In A Bottle” is pretty catchy for a song about alcoholism. “Feeling 10 feet tall on 80 proof/ But the midnight lies, ain’t it the truth?” she sings. And you know she’s singing from experience.

“Don’t Let Them Hide Your Beautiful” (2026)

The centerpiece of her new album, “Don’t Let Them Hide Your Beautiful” is a moving, midtempo ode to being yourself. It’s a common theme across Messina’s entire career and discography.

“A Woman’s Rant” (2014)

The underrated “A Woman’s Rant” appeared on Me, Messina’s first studio album after a lengthy break. It pairs an old-time, bluegrass sound with a more modern, feminist lyric. To wit: “Husband, kids, work all day, I got PMS and PTA/ Find the thing my kid can’t find, I need a drink but there’s no time.”

“Bring On the Rain” (2000)

“Bring On the Rain,” a contemplative duet with Tim McGraw, is from Messina’s third album, Burn. It’s a true modern classic, having peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, been certified Gold, and garnering tens of millions of streams. McGraw also co-produced the GRAMMY-nominated vocal event with Byron Gallimore.

“Downtime” (2000)

Another one from Burn – and a good song to listen to in the aftermath of a breakup. “I’ve been down this road a time or two/ I’ll get on my feet and over you,” Messina sings over electric guitars. “I’m just goin’ through a little downtime.”

“Because You Love Me” (1998)

From Messina’s sophomore set I’m Alright, “Because You Love Me” is a song about a love that stood the test of time. It proved that Messina could also pull off ballads. The double-platinum success of I’m Alright also helped Messina collect the 1999 CMA Horizon Award.

“Bye Bye” (1998)

The ridiculously catchy “Bye Bye,” also from I’m Alright and written by Phil Vassar and Rory Michael Bourke, scored Messina another big hit. A rollicking kiss-off to a former guy who is noncommittal, it finds her singing “Bye-bye, love, I’ll catch you later/ Got a lead foot down on my accelerator…” And suddenly we’re all singing along!

“You’re Not in Kansas Anymore” (1996)

The opening song from her debut LP, “You’re Not in Kansas Anymore” is another upbeat tune about a guy who left the Midwest for the Hollywood lights. It contains the great opening line, “He said, ‘I grew up in Wichita, in a Mayberry kind of town.’”

“Heads Carolina, Tails California” (1996)

Messina’s first single, from her self-titled debut. This upbeat jam about hitting the road reached the Top 10 on both the U.S. and Canada country charts. A definite fan favorite, it’s also the title of a 2023 greatest hits collection. Certified platinum, it’s easily landed in the 200 million-plus streams category – it’s such an iconic song, it’s birthed other country songs that reference it. Namely Cole Swindell’s 2022 track, “She Had Me at Heads Carolina.”

Explore more of our Artist of the Month content on Jo Dee Messina here.

Photo Credit: Madison Sharp

Old Crow Medicine Show’s Americana Commonwealth Canon

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

More than any of the world’s music, the songs of America are a reflection of a national identity and character. We are our songs.

Distilled into a few memorable minutes go the nation’s hopes and aspirations, the glories and tragedies of her past, and the promises of her future. This American canon is as diverse and vast as the country itself – our blues, breakdowns, or corridos are as different as prairies are from coastlines, as the Appalachians are from the Rockies. And yet, somehow, still our sound is a commonwealth, a singular voice rising from the chorus of many just like our national motto purports: “E Pluribus Unum.”

250 years is not a long time in the global scheme, and neither is 28 years of Old Crow Medicine Show‘s reign as an Americana string band. But somehow it is the vigorous and youthful American voice/song/songwriter/band (and not our transoceanic elders) that can best capture the world’s heart and soul in just a few minutes.

In this Mixtape, I’m proud to share some examples of this powerful artistry. You might already know every word to some of these songs while others you may have never heard, yet each is stitched together with a cloth of commonwealth that can only be found of uncommon ancestry. Though the singers may be perfect strangers, the songs that bubble up from our national cauldron are enough to nourish each and all. – Ketch Secor, Old Crow Medicine Show

“Howdy Do America” – Old Crow Medicine Show, Jesse Welles

Jesse Welles came whirling into the studio the other day and helped put a spit shine on this love song about the 50 states. I wondered if he was gonna get excited when he sang “Arkansas” and brother, he did not disappoint. Love this cat. He’s a brother, and I expect we’ll all be singing his tunes for years to come.

“Golden Rocket” – Jim & Jesse

I had the privilege of knowing Jesse McReynolds, even traveling and performing with him, and buddy there’s no wonder why Jerry Garcia thought he was the best of the bluegrassers.

“Field of Opportunity” – Neil Young

I was raised on Neil Young’s unique brand of tall prairie country rock. This track features the great Cajun fiddler Rufus Thibodeaux.

“Heaven Help Us All” – Joan Baez

Joan’s a real hero of mine. She’s like that tree planted by the water we all sing about, unmovable. Of all the singers on this playlist, I can say without a doubt if more people could be like Joan Baez, then this world would be a better place.

“I Wanna Go Country” – Otis Williams & the Midnight Cowboys

I love this Motown singer turned country crooner, and the world would have too, if Nashville hadn’t been so narrow-minded.

“Beautiful Land” – Old Crow Medicine Show, Maggie Rose, Lee Oskar

I wrote this one with a Baháʼí faith elder named Eric Dozier just down the street from the Tennessee State Capitol building. Sometimes politics feel like a fortress. But music has a way of wandering through the keyhole of even the most impenetrable door.

“There’s a Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere” – Elton Britt

I played this one for my kids on Memorial Day. They sat through it start to finish, and you should, too. It’s easy to get complacent about the sacrifice our grandparents and great-grandparents made in the 1940’s for each of us. Don’t do it.

“Oasis” – Molly Tuttle

Molly’s my favorite American singer. Here’s one of our travelogue-style songs. I had it stuck in my head all last week at the Tico Time Bluegrass Festival in Aztec, New Mexico.

“The Green Rolling Hills of West Virginia” – Hazel Dickens & Alice Gerrard

These girls rip. Back at MerleFest in the year 2000, I filled out Old Crow’s first ever W-2 form and gave it, with a shaky hand, to the great Alice Gerrard.

“How’s About You” – Dave Rawlings Machine

The Great Depression gave the world some of its most powerful songs. And even generations later, the events of the 1930s remained powerful enough to inspire music like this.

“Rock of Chickamauga” – Jimmie Driftwood

Songs about the Civil War are some of my favorites in the national cannon. Jimmie Driftwood is one of my favorite songsmiths. He’s an absolute master of the historical ballad.

“Across The Great Divide” – Kate Wolf

I am awestruck by the landscape of the West, and few songwriters can take you there better than the amazing Kate Wolf.

“What Did You Learn in School Today?” – Tom Paxton

I’ve been singing this one since I was a youngin. When I was 12, I discovered my uncle’s weathered copy of Vanguard’s album Newport Broadside: Topical Songs at the Newport Folk Festival 1963, and that was my introduction to Tom.

“The Tramp on the Street” – Molly O’Day

Born in Pike County, Kentucky, she’s one of my favorite bluegrass singers. She first heard this song from Hank Williams on a Birmingham radio station, and it became her signature song. American music has a way of championing the underdog better than most.

“Shenandoah” – Bob Dylan

I think I was 15 when I first heard Bob singing this gem, hidden in the ruffles of one of his more questionable ’80s albums. I thought, “Damn, Bob knows where I’m from.”

“Corrido de John F. Kennedy” – Los Reyes del Corrido

My band has been dabbling in conjunto for two decades now. We got to learn this one for next time we play the big D (Dallas).

“Which Side Are You On” – The Weavers

No collection of American songs is complete without a protest piece from the labor movement, the first dark corner where the full power of American music was unleashed.

“The City of New Orleans” – Arlo Guthrie

When we play Chicago, I always talk about Steve Goodman, who wrote this song. I sure would have liked to have known the guy. Thankfully his music will last forever.

“Cowboy National Anthem” – O.B. McClinton

O.B. left this world before he was fully known by the country music fanbase that would soon send black country singers consistently to the top of the charts. He was a man before his time, but the music he made reminds us that, just like Ray Charles said, “Country music is black music.”

“Deportee (Plane Wreck at Los Gatos)” – Old Crow Medicine Show

We love Woody Guthrie, and this is one of the numerous songs of his we’ve recorded through the years. In a nation of immigrants (I’m a French Huguenot), it’s hard to imagine how we could exist without a steady flow of new members to our American family.

“Big Backyard” – Molly Tuttle

When Molly and I wrote this, it was on account of having a massive vacant lot behind the house we were composing in. Now that same lot is full of little yellow flags and “coming soon” signs. Yet still we sing, louder this time.

“For What It’s Worth” – Buffalo Springfield

A few years back, I had the distinct pleasure of sharing an elevator with Stephen Stills, author of this earthquaking song which Buffalo Springfield recorded in 1966 – and we covered this year on our new album, Union Made. I wanted to tell him thanks, gush, and get my picture made. Instead, I stood quietly until he rasped, “I heard your soundcheck. Great band you got there. Keep ‘em together if ya can.” Thanks, I will Stephen.

“Louder Than Guns” – Old Crow Medicine Show

This summer, PBS stations across the country are broadcasting the film we spent three years making in a half-dozen tour stops along our travels. It’s a movie about bringing together the disparate ends of the 2nd Amendment debate during an era in which guns kill innocent Americans at shocking rates. It’s a tall order, coming together to flatten the curve, seeing past our silos and personal politics, but in town after town I watched people listening across the divide. As easy as it is to be hopeless, the film has made me hopeful we’ll get beyond this impasse and prioritize the safety of our communities. This song is the theme of this film.

“American Tune” – Allen Toussaint

I’m glad you made it through to the end. Old Crow opened up for the great Allen Toussaint in the Berkshires back around 2011. The record featuring this song had just come out and when he launched into it, I was nearly knocked off my feet. So powerful. So simple. Says it all.

Photo Credit: Ed Rode

Gina Leslie’s “Making Music with My Friends” Playlist

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

This Mixtape brings a spotlight to the vibrant community that I call home in New Orleans. This is a list of some recordings I’ve been part of as a side musician. There are so many bands that I have played and recorded with through the years, I feel honored to be at their sides. Here are a few memories of moments from the making of these records – and I’ve noted what I contributed to each song.

Thank you for trusting me with your tunes! The life I love is making music with my friends…

I should make a disclaimer – my memories run together and I can’t always remember complete credits for every person on every song… forgive me, for I know these are incomplete! There are so many people who work behind the scenes. One thing I realized while writing this list and wanted to note: Ross Farbe (Video Age) is either a recording engineer, mixing engineer, producer or performer on almost half of these songs. He mixed my whole record. It’s often those working just out of view who make the magic happen. – Gina Leslie

“The World Is Changing” – Gina Leslie 

I’ll start off this listening session with the opening track of my new album, I Love You Always No Matter What Happens. I wrote this song sitting around a campfire on a long haul drive from Louisiana to Colorado while going through it. I went to therapy and all I got was this self-love and ability to cope?!? I’m obsessed with the guitar riff that my co-producer Nat Smith added after the hook.

“Little Things” – Bella White

(Bass, harmony vocals.) It’s been a treat to record on Bella’s new album and play in her live band for the past few years. When we met, we immediately clicked about our similar bluegrass childhoods and endless love of singing three-part harmony, and we never looked back. We recorded this album at our friend’s house by the levee in New Orleans.

“Had To” – Esther Rose

(Bass, harmony vocals.) After playing with Esther here and there through the years, we finally got together for a full record together. I loved playing bass and singing harms on her album Want, recorded live to tape at the Bomb Shelter in Nashville. Esther is a well of songs and I’m constantly inspired by her commitment to writing.

“New Believers” – Sam Gelband

(Bass, harmony vocals.) I’ve been playing in different versions of Sam’s band for a long time and we recorded his new album at his house in New Orleans. There’s something about his songs that makes me perfectly happy and sad at the same time. Sam and I are also a rhythm section team, playing with a lot of the bands on this list.

 “Jay’n Bee Club” – Max Bien Kahn

(Acoustic guitar, harmony vocals.) Max and I have both been playing bass in each other’s live bands for years. This song is from his upcoming unreleased album where everyone switched instruments constantly; sometimes we would do a take of a song and then everyone swap and do another take. I love how alive it feels.

 “Louisiana Hound Dog” – Sabine McCalla

(Bass, harmony vocals.) I’ve got a Louisiana hound dog of my own and she goes wild for Sabine, much like most anyone who hears her. The recording session for this album was the beginning of me playing in Sabine’s band and we’ve been all over the place since then. I love how this album covers so much sonic ground and is layered with harmonies and little ear candies everywhere.

“I Really Do” – Leonie Evans

(Bass, harmony vocals.) Nearly 10 years ago, I got a bootleg copy of a home recording of Leonie singing and nearly crashed my car when I put it on for the first time. I couldn’t believe she was real. Then a few months later, I manifested her into my life and she came to my house straight from the airport to work up harmonies for a gig that night. We’ve been harmony sisters ever since.

 “Long Gone” – Chris Lyons

(Bass, harmony vocals.) I was standing outside when Chris put on the rough mixes at closing time at beloved neighborhood dive bar BJ’s, and through the walls I thought it was an old record from the ’70s. Then I came inside and realized it was the Chris Lyons record we had been working on that week. Chris has that classic folk rock sound.

“No Mama Blues” – The Lostines

(Bass, harmony vocals.) The Lostines – songwriting & singing team Casey Jane Reece-Kaigler and Camille Weatherford – were one of the early bands I started playing with when I moved to New Orleans. We recorded this record at the Tigermen Den in early 2022 with a revolving door of friends to ice the sonic cake.

“Chicken Pocket” – Chicken Milk

(Harmony vocals.) I met Dave Hammer, the mastermind behind local cult icon Chicken Milk, on the very first night I came to New Orleans in 2016. We started a band together a few days later. I’d guess we’ve played thousands of hours of music together at this point. Chicken Milk create some of the most unique, joyful, hilarious songwriting and playing I’ve ever heard. I often can’t get through a song without bursting into laughter. This is a tame one.

“Left Side” – Stelth Ulvang

(Bass, harmony vocals.) The day that I met Stelth, we went straight into the studio minutes later and started setting up mics and jamming his songs, capturing some of the first times we ever got through the songs. I love how Stelth is so playful and not precious about the creative process, with everything fully live and breathing. The backing band includes a few of my beloved and most frequent collaborators – Howe Pearson on drums and Max Bien Kahn on guitar.

“Misty Mama” – Rainy Eyes

(Harmony vocals.) The session for this album began in a little cabin in Bolinas, California, before Irena Eide (AKA Rainy Eyes) took a meandering journey to Lafayette, Louisiana, several years later to finish the album. I was so happy to be a part of bringing it to the finish line. Irena writes classic and confessional songs that speak truth to my wandering spirit.

“Oaxaca” – Maggie Koerner

(Bass.) Absolute powerhouse Maggie slid into my DMs a few years ago and asked if I wanted to hang out and try making some music together, wanting more women in the room on her next record. I was so glad to play bass on her album UPSTATE, recorded at Lil Squeeze studio by Ajai Combelic. Maggie’s voice stops me in my tracks.

“Anna Rose” – Ric Robertson

(Harmony vocals.) When I quit my job in 2016, packed my car, and started driving, it was Ric Robertson who told me to come down to New Orleans, where I could sublet a room, have a band of my own, and play every night of the week. It changed the course of my life. He co-produced my EP, No, You’re Crying, and it’s been so special to be a part of each other’s music. I loved singing harmonies here with Appalachian songbird Dori Freeman.

“Yellow Motorcycle” – Gina Leslie, Elise Leavy 

(Guitar, vocals.) I couldn’t possibly talk about loving music with my friends without a mention of Elise Leavy. We’ve been dancing with the mysterious art of writing songs together for years, and have never yet run out of songs to sing together. My new album features her on a lot of the harmony singing, as well as two stripped down acoustic duets that we co-wrote.

Photo Credit: Rett Rogers

Country + Disco?
Country + Bluegrass?

Posted on by Shelby Williamson

Editor’s Note: Each issue of Good Country, our co-founder Ed Helms shares a handful of good country artists, albums, and songs direct from his own earphones in Ed’s Picks.

Dailey & Vincent
Dailey & Vincent

A premier modern bluegrass duo, Dailey & Vincent return today with a brand-new album, A Beautiful Life. Their harmonies, polish, and showmanship are unparalleled in bluegrass – and beyond. Yes, they have bluegrass and string band music in their bones, but limiting them to just ‘grass would be selling them short. They’re also country, gospel, Americana, and so much more.

Watch for more coverage of Dailey & Vincent and A Beautiful Life coming soon to BGS.

Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert

From Sturgill Simpson to Abbie Callahan, from the Cowgays to Miranda Lambert, the intersection of country and disco is a hoppin’ address at the moment! Lambert’s quippy, light, and fun track built on a portmanteau of the two genres is as Southern as it gets, from vegetable shortening to the dance floor sparkling under a disco ball. Country-disco is a decades-old tradition and we’re here for this resurgence.

The Red Clay Strays
The Red Clay Strays

Speaking of blending styles, the Red Clay Strays are doing it better than almost anyone these days. To the GC team, the skyrocketing Alabama outfit always sound like country, but it’s obvious their sound is so much more – rockabilly, soul, grunge, punk, golden-era rock and roll, garage country. Whatever they infuse into their music, it always feels right at home in Good Country. Their brand new album, Grateful, is out now.

Joshua Ray Walker
Joshua Ray Walker

Last month, Texan country crooner Joshua Ray Walker returned with a new LP, Ain’t Dead Yet. Don’t be dissuaded by the thread of winking mortality and silly macabre that he continues to trace through his songs; after his own brush with death – he was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 – Walker’s sardonic and witty style of country & western has found a charming and entertaining edge by staring the shortness of life dead in the eye. (Pun intended?) Another excellent set from an essential contemporary traditionalist.

Bella White
Bella White

Another excellent artist who bridges country, bluegrass, and more – but perhaps from the opposite end of the continuum from Dailey & Vincent. Bella White’s music feels elemental, channeled from across time, but never anachronistic. Her songwriting and style feels in the vein of other country oracles like Gillian Welch, Iris DeMent, and Lucinda Williams. But it’s also all her own. Her latest album, A Sign In The Weather, was released June 5.

Listen to this issue of Ed’s Picks in one YouTube playlist here.

Listen to the full Ed’s Picks archive playlist here.

Photo Credits: Dailey & Vincent by Gregg Roth; Miranda Lambert by Robert Ascroft; The Red Clay Strays, Grateful album cover; Joshua Ray Walker by Mike Dunn; Bella White by Tamara Flemming

Keyland’s Friends in Low Places Playlist All About Tulsa

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

The music scene in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is alive and well. If I’d thought otherwise at any point in time, it wouldn’t take long for a stranger in an Austin dive or a songwriter in Nashville to remind me – and they have. I’ve called Tulsa home for 10 years and gladly claim and evangelize her as often as I can. This little-big town’s reputation of producing quality singer-songwriters and musicians is justified, however biased I am.

Come with me, Keyland, on a little walk through a Tulsa-Mixtape journey. Before we begin, I’d like to offer a few important listening notes:

1) I regret that I will inevitably leave some folks out, merely due to the limitation of brevity. My sincerest apologies. But I’d like to point out that this list is composed of my personal friends in the Tulsa music scene. Beers on me at the Mercury Lounge to any friends I leave out here…

2) This is a list of current artists. The Tulsa music scene is often associated with only a handful of eclectic deceased writers and musicians. God bless them – but Tulsa has changed a lot in the last 50 years or so. My friends included here do an amazing job of looking ahead at what the future holds.

Let’s jump in! – Kyle Ross, Keyland

“Dripping Coffee” – Ramsey Thornton

Ramsey is one of my best friends and most likely the very best musician I know. He plays drums and sings harmonies in my band, Keyland, and he is an incredible guitar and banjo player. In the best way, this album is more a composition than anything else.

“Stranger” – Wilderado

This is my favorite band. I so respect the way these guys approach rock and roll with a blue-collar “dad” mentality. It’s truly inspiring, and the way I want to approach music as a career.

“Coyote” – Ken Pomeroy, John Moreland

This is a two-for-one selection: Ken and John are both powerhouse songwriters and singers. Both these artists are gifted in very special ways and I’m glad they make music.

“Get to You” – Micah Felts

Micah Felts is hilarious, a fantastic songwriter, and an all-around great dude and friend. He is also a stellar acoustic guitar player.

“Better If Worse” – HAFFWAY

Sam Westhoff is slipping in this Tulsa music list, because I sure as hell wasn’t going to leave him out. He is one of my best friends and has produced all of my music. He lives in Nashville now and is famous (rightfully so).

“Comanche Moon” – John Ferrell

John Ferrell is one of the most rawly talented players and singers I know. I met John while we were both in college and he learned to play guitar better than me and all my other friends in like three months.

“Marigold” – Chris Bo Jones

Also sneaking in this Tulsa list is OKC rockstar Chris Bo Jones. Lineman by day, rock star by night, Chris is one of my favorite singers.

“Outside” – MORE&MORE, Beachfriends

Brady Ballew (the happiest person I know) used to play professional soccer. Now his band MORE&MORE and Keyland like to sell out shows in our favorite Tulsa dive, the Mercury Lounge. I’ve listened to this song 10,000 times.

 “Call Me Anytime” – Sports

Christian introduced me to nicotine toothpicks and Australian beer one time after a HAFFWAY show. These guys produce a lot of cool stuff in Tulsa. And Sports is like a huge band.

“Bullfighter” – Joleen Brown

Joleen Brown is Tulsa’s sweetheart. Her voice is crazy good and she is the sweetest, coolest person you will meet.

“Wishes” – Travis Linville

I’m new to Travis’s music and I’m so glad I found it. This is like a Tom Petty song in the best way. I don’t know Travis super well, but it seems like he has a really grounded view on the reality of what it means to be a musician in 2026, and for all the right reasons.

“More” – Kalyn Fay

Kayln Fay just put out a really cool record that highlights and honors her Cherokee culture and roots.

“This Damn Funky” – Johnny Mullenax

Johnny plays guitar 1000 miles per hour. Johnny’s band plays their music at 1000 miles per hour also. The live show is insane.

 “South and Pine” – Zach Bryan, King Cabbage Brass Band

I have not met Zach yet, but I have drank one million beers at 5 or 6 of his concerts. The horn section in this new record of his is a Tulsa band called the King Cabbage Brass Band and it is physically impossible to not have fun at a show of theirs. And they also do really cool work in our community by teaching band camps for kids – they recently held a concert at Cain’s Ballroom and their band camp kids absolutely crushed a song on the main stage.

“Cowboy Song” – BC & the Big Rig, Jacob Tovar

This is another two-for-one selection: Brandon Clark was one of the first people to ever believe in my band, Keyland, and let us play our first real gig with them. Jacob Tovar has a buttery voice and one of the funniest people you could give a microphone to. You can catch both of these gentleman holding down separate residencies at local dives – Tonkin’ Tuesdays with Tovar and BC’s Sunday Service – you guessed it, at the Mercury Lounge.

Photo courtesy of the artist.

Roots Songs All About Mental Health

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but for those with lived experience, every day is about mental health awareness. During the most difficult times, many creators and listeners turn to music. It’s where we connect through lyrics and melodies that express the things we so often cannot, will not, dare not say.

The intersection of music and mental health is nothing new. Long before memes and catchphrases about “break the stigma,” Hank Williams did just that with “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” Years later, Porter Wagoner exposed the ugly unspoken truth about “The Rubber Room.” 

Thankfully, through incremental steps, times have changed – although not enough – in terms of media portrayal and public discourse. With great courage, more and more artists are coming forward about their struggles. Dozens of artists and musicians have spoken openly with BGS and Good Country about how mental health challenges move them to create songs and albums that make us all feel a little bit less alone. (Scroll to find our playlist of roots songs all about mental health below.)

Artists and bands like Becky Buller, Courtney Marie Andrews, Sister Sadie, and Tenille Townes give us glimpses at how mental health and self-care inform their creative processes and how they craft their songs, albums, and sets. Groups like Southern Avenue and the Band Loula – who make music built on the sonic and storytelling traditions of the South – subvert regional expectations about what’s “allowed” to be spoken about in the light of day with their approaches to infusing mental health awareness into their songs. Still more conversations with artists like Fruit Bats, Cole Chaney, Emily Scott Robinson, and Chely Wright reinforce that mental health in roots music isn’t a fad or passing trend, it’s an intentional through line. Songwriting and roots music are perfect vehicles for this sort of vulnerability and these once forbidden topics.

The proliferation of YouTube and democratization of music videos in the 2000s and 2010s opened up new dimensions for artists, giving them more formats in which to express themselves, depict their work, and consider mental health. Additionally, of course, it offers live performances that go beyond anything a studio recording can capture.

“I Think It’s Going to Rain Today” – Randy Newman

Randy Newman’s masterpiece has been covered many times, and the internet is full of those recordings – as well as his. This performance, however, at his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, may very well surpass them all.

“God, Can You Hear Me?” – Dax

Dax is fearless in addressing the most difficult and “taboo” topics. “God, Can You Hear Me?” asks the unspoken question within the context of a subject that far too many people refuse to address: suicidal ideation. (Content warning: graphic.)

“Let the Circle Be Broken” – Sister Sadie

In genres predicated upon generational legacies and “handing down” tradition, Sister Sadie’s song of release, letting go, and stepping out from underneath the long shadow of generational traumas is more than powerful. By the same token, that it was written and is sung and performed by a band of all women makes it a truly transcendent message. Some circles are meant to remain unbroken, others must be demolished.

“Bench Seat” – Chase Rice

Chase Rice broke down walls and stereotypes and opened doors to discussions about suicide with this multiple-award-winning video. Country needed this. Country needs more of this. (Content warning: graphic.)

“Hurt” – Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash. Enough said.

“I’m Gonna Be the Wind” – Laurie Lewis

Bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis has penned many a fine song tackling issues of mental health, but this is the song for when you’re ready to stride out anew again. It’s a song of strength, resilience, of realizing that often one of the primary forces keeping us down is our own mindset. Tired of being a blade of grass, bent and bruised by the wind? Be the wind!

“Sunday Morning Coming Down” – The Highwaymen

Mickey Raphael described them as “like Mount Rushmore onstage” and called Kris Kristofferson “the Shakespeare of our time.” This is why.

“Will the Sun Ever Shine Again” – Bonnie Raitt

One of the best songs Bonnie Raitt has ever sung and released was recorded for the 2004 animated film Home on the Range. Devastating, endlessly relatable, but ultimately hopeful, the film cut of “Will the Sun Ever Shine Again” is hard to track down on streaming services and online, but it’s truly lovely. A gem of a soundtrack find from an often overlooked Disney children’s movie from the aughts.

“Alone Again (Naturally)” – Gilbert O’Sullivan

In 1971, Gilbert O’Sullivan bravely addressed loss, grief, heartbreak, loneliness, depression, suicidal thoughts, and questions of faith, wrapped them up in a lovely melody, set them to a catchy beat, and rode to the top of the charts with one of the most gutting, most accurate depictions of mental health challenges ever put to song. Decades and numerous cover versions later, stripped down to keyboard and guitar, his voice aged like fine wine, “Alone Again (Naturally)” remains poignantly accurate and relatable.

“Bad Mind” – Erin Rae

A song so perfect in its illustration of how we project and ascribe mental health, onto ourselves and others. We all may know, somewhere inside ourselves, that there is no such thing as a “Bad Mind,” but stigma and internalized expectations leave so many of us feeling broken and “incorrect.” Listening to Erin Rae sing this lovely, devastating song brings an immediate feeling of needing to reassure the singer that there really aren’t bad minds… and thereby the realization we should also apply that grace to ourselves.

Below, you’ll find our full playlist of nearly 8 hours of roots music created by the teams at BGS and Good Country that features some of the many excellent songs that address mental health. For Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond.

Photo Credit: (L to R) Cole Chaney by Anthony Simpkins; Sister Sadie courtesy of the artist; Dax by Annie Devine.

Additional curation and contributions by Shelby Williamson and Justin Hiltner.

Alt-Country, the Blues, and Oklahoma

Posted on by Shelby Williamson

Editor’s Note: Each issue of Good Country, our co-founder Ed Helms shares a handful of good country artists, albums, and songs direct from his own earphones in Ed’s Picks.

Rodney Crowell

Great news from a roots-country legend, Rodney Crowell returns with a “new/old” album on June 26, Then Again. Largely recorded over two decades ago in the early 2000s with Steuart Smith co-producing and completed with Dan Knobler stepping in, its lead single, “Are You One of Us?,” is the final recording by Crowell and his friend and compatriot Guy Clark. It’s a track perfectly suited for these divided times we’re living in, bringing wisdom and wit like only Crowell and Clark could. We can’t wait to hear more from Then Again!

Shakey Graves

We’ve known, covered, and collaborated with our friend Alejandro for years and years, so we’re especially excited to have him as our current BGS Artist of the Month, celebrating his brand new album Fondness, Etc. For an artist who’s adept at sonic and aesthetic reinvention, his music still always sounds exactly like himself – even as he bends and breaks the barriers of alt-country, neo-folk, Americana, and western to his liking. This is one of our favorite Shakey eras yet.

Taj Mahal

Another legend of American roots music, Taj Mahal is woefully underappreciated and undersung, even while being rightfully worshipped by so many as a keystone of blues, Americana, string band, and country musics. His new album, Time, released with his Phantom Blues Band on Resonatin’ Records/Thirty Tigers, shows that he remains as dynamic and innovative as ever. The title track is a deep-pocketed and smooth never-before-heard Bill Withers number that Taj makes his own. If you’re used to his gritty, playful, and down home blues, the sound here may surprise you – but damn, that’s Good Country, isn’t it?

Reba McEntire

Our queen of country, Oklahoma, and corn dogs is celebrating her 50-year groundbreaking, iconic career with new music – lucky for all of us! A brand new track, “One Night In Tulsa,” leads off an EP that encapsulates a few of her musical tributes to her home state from over the years: “Tulsa Time,” “Oklahoma Swing” featuring Vince Gill, “Does the Wind Still Blow in Oklahoma” with Ronnie Dunn, and the excellent Buddy Cannon-produced “No U in Oklahoma.” “One Night In Tulsa” is a soaring, dramatic, and longing love song to Tulsa and beyond, uttered like only Reba could. This version is the just-released live performance video of the song shot live at Reba’s Place, her restaurant, gift shop, and music venue in Atoka, OK.

Jobi Riccio

Jobi Riccio charmed the country universe with her 2023 debut, Whiplash, but hold onto your necks, ‘cause her brand new album, Face the Feeling, finds the Coloradoan singer-songwriter evolving her production styles and genre descriptors in a big way. She’s infused grunge, alt-folk, and country-rock into these new songs; the results vary from straight-down-the-middle Southern rock to expansive, electronic indie-twang. We especially find Good Country touches in songs like “Pilar, NM” and “Wildfire Season,” but they can be found throughout the rockin’ project.

Listen to this issue of Ed’s Picks in one YouTube playlist here.

Listen to the full Ed’s Picks archive playlist here.

Want more Good Country? Sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter – and much more music! – direct to your inbox.

Photo Credits: Rodney Crowell by Claudia Church; Shakey Graves by Jonathan Terrell; Taj Mahal by Mike Coeyman; Reba McEntire, One Night in Tulsa album cover; Jobi Riccio by Rett Rogers.

Phillip Phillips’ Songs for Curing (or Wallowing in) Homesickness

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

This Mixtape sits in that space between where you came from and where life has taken you, full of memories, change, and longing for home. Songs like “Old Friends” by Ben Rector and “Rivers and Roads” by The Head And The Heart reflect on growing up and holding onto the people who shaped you, while “Fast Car” and “Clocks” capture that pull between escape and comfort.

At the center is my song, “Homesick,” written from the tension of chasing a dream while missing the people I love most. It’s about time passing, love deepening, and the quiet ache of being away from home. I’m excited to be touring later this year and releasing more music, and this playlist feels like a piece of that journey I get to share. – Phillip Phillips

“Old Friends” – Ben Rector

I love how this song connects the dots of those friends you grew up with and where you are as you’re older with them. Things change. Life goes on. But the memories and things you shared growing up with someone you’ll always remember. I love the lyric, “But I’ve never seen their parents’ back porch…” Such a real thing.

“Clocks” – Coldplay

Timeless song. You feel as though you need to be somewhere that gives you comfort if things start to feel uneasy or too much.

“Home” – Phillip Phillips

It’s me. Take it as you will and have your own meaning!

“Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman

Such an emotional song about needing to get out of the place that feels like it’s suffocating you. Sometimes the places we come from can feel that way.

“Rivers and Roads” – The Head And The Heart

For me it’s feels like time passing. Longing for the little moments that made life feel slow. I have kids now and it hits that much harder. To go the distance to see the ones you love just one more time.

“To Build a Home” – The Cinematic Orchestra, Patrick Wilson

I cry every time I listen to this song. So pure and raw. “Emotional” is an understatement for this one. It’s hard to listen to sometimes for me.

“Homesick” – Phillip Phillips

This is my newest song. I love it so much. I travel a lot and I get to do something I love, but I also have to sacrifice, spending time away from the people I love more than anything. I wrote this while my son was napping. Knowing that I was going to leave for another trip soon. I love playing music, but I love to be home to change the dirty diapers and take the trash out. Playing in the mud. I hope you love it as much as I do.

“Danny’s Song” – Loggins & Messina

Love over money. Always the goal. I love this classic song. Makes me think about being with my wife before getting married and having kids. How special those times are when you’re building a foundation in a relationship.

“The Book of Love” – The Magnetic Fields

I didn’t hear this song until later in life and it hit me like a train. Gets me emotional every time. Saying that love is boring and long. Which it really can be at times, and that’s okay. Loving someone is difficult. And for me, this song speaks to all relationships. Not just a husband or wife. I have flashbacks of my life when listening to this song.

“Livers and Onions” – Aaron Espe

My good friend wrote this song and when I first heard it, it made me think of growing up and being with my uncle Joey and my dad and thinking about my relationships as a kid with my cousins and family. Such a great song.

“Father and Son” – Yusuf / Cat Stevens

This song is just everything. I can only dream to write a song half as good as this. Makes me cry. Makes me think of being a father to my son and my relationship with my father.

Photo Credit: Sean O’Halloran

Artist of the Month: Shakey Graves

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

Texas has long been known for its singer-songwriters and country acts, but there’s plenty of music within the Lone Star State that navigates outside those boundaries as well. A few recent examples include Spoon, Gary Clark Jr., Khruangbin, White Denim, and Shakey Graves, the latter of which has become a cult hero of sorts in the folk and roots music space.

Born Alejandro Rose-Garcia, Graves’ career in music didn’t begin to take hold until the mid-2000s following acting roles with the Spy Kids franchise and television series Friday Night Lights, but once it did momentum hasn’t slowed since. Each step along the way the singer has reinvented himself. From the solo one-man band setup on his independent 2011 debut, Roll the Bones, to 2014’s And The War Came – which featured the indelible Esmé Patterson on songs like “Dearly Departed” and “Big Time Nashville Star” and eventually culminated in Graves winning Emerging Artist Of The Year at the 2015 Americana Honors & Awards – to the trippy, extended jams of 2023’s Deadstock anthology.

That constant transformation leaves listeners in perpetual awe. Among those caught in the cycle of captivation has been BGS executive director and co-founder Amy Reitnouer Jacobs, who first encountered Graves at Pickathon in Happy Valley, Oregon.

“I remember hearing him start his set and watching the crowd grow,” recalls Reitnouer Jacobs of that maiden experience. “There’s certain festival sets where you can feel a palpable energy and buzz, and this was one of them. It was just him, a guitar, a harmonica, and a suitcase holding a kick drum. It was a truly magical moment where you knew the person you’re watching is really gonna hit.”

In the 18 months that followed, Reitnouer Jacobs began booking Graves on several BGS-related gigs and sponsored stages at places like Bonnaroo, the Newport Folk Festival, and the LA Bluegrass Situation Festival. Around the same time, Graves was starting to pop off with his first big hit, the aforementioned “Dearly Departed,” which to this day remains his second-most streamed song ever with over 133 million listens on Spotify at the time of this story’s publication.

According to Reitnouer Jacobs, being around to witness Graves then was like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that is still in the process of playing out: “There’s a few key moments in anyone’s career where, if they’re lucky, they get to witness and be adjacent to somebody’s incredible talent,” she explains. “Getting to know Alejandro feels exactly like that.”

“He is always beholden to himself first and foremost,” she continues. “He’s not an artist that will crank out material just for the sake of doing so. When he comes up with something it’s going to be really considerate and developed. He’s also not afraid to try new things. I’ve seen him with a full band and solo, acoustic and plugged in. It really speaks to his multifaceted nature and how no one artist exists within a vacuum. Sometimes roots music can get a bit caught up in that, but Alejandro does a good job of having these different sides of him coexist and come through in his music.”

Speaking of trying new things, Graves does just that on his latest record, Fondness, Etc. Out May 15, the album of home recordings takes on an ambient and lo-fi approach that most closely compares to his simplified 2017 project, Shakey Graves And The Horse He Rode In On. Accompanying the minimalist methodology on these songs are the sound of bird calls and wind gusts on “On My Own” and various tropical noises on “I Once Was An Ocean” that give the compilation a very lived-in feel, something that’s not often the case for an artist who’s constantly reimagining his own work.

Per Reitnouer Jacobs, she thinks a lot of that intimacy and experimentation goes back to Graves’ roots in Austin, a Texas town known for embracing its weird side. “There’s a lot of really cool stuff happening in that part of Texas, so it doesn’t surprise me that something like ambient music is sneaking into what he does,” she observes. “My favorite artist, personally, is Kate Bush, with my top lyric of hers being ‘let the weirdness in’ on her song ‘Leave It Open.’ I go back to that a lot, because I think artists fearless enough to let the weirdness in are the ones who actually move their genres forward, which is exactly what Alejandro is doing.”

In celebration of Shakey Graves’ fifth studio record Fondness, Etc., we’ve named the singer our Artist of the Month for May 2026. Throughout the next few weeks, we’ll celebrate Graves by going back into our archives for all-things-Shakey, plus you can read our brand-new exclusive interview with Alejandro himself, watch our Sagebrush SXSW Session featuring exclusive Shakey clips, and of course, don’t miss our Essential Shakey Graves Playlist, below.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Terrell

Old Spot’s Transatlantic Old-Time Playlist

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

(Editor’s Note: Below, United Kingdom-based old-time duo Old Spot – Rowan Piggott and Joe Danks – curate a Mixtape for BGS celebrating old-time music of the UK and Ireland. In order to include as many tracks as possible representing the vibrant string band scene in the UK, some selections are shared via Spotify and others via Bandcamp, depending on availability. We hope you enjoy listening and learning about transatlantic old-time – and that you support all roots musicians directly whenever possible.)

This is a Mixtape designed to highlight some of the amazing old-time string band music coming out of the UK and Ireland at the moment. Old Spot is a product of a vibrant scene, with the fiddlers and bands around us just as influential to us as their American counterparts.

This playlist looks to reflect some of the musicians performing string band music today, whilst shining a light on lesser-known gems. In compiling it, we’ve realized how much of the music we love on the old-time scene here isn’t on Spotify – if you love any of this music, buy it from the artists who made it! Anyway… less jawin’ more sawin’… – Old Spot

“Elzick’s Farewell” – Rattle On The Stovepipe

Rattle On The Stovepipe formed in 2003 and have played up and down the UK spreading old-time with band stalwarts Pete Cooper and Dave Arthur joined later by Dan Stewart – probably our favorite banjo player in the UK. This groovy version of “Elzick’s Farewell” is from their first album with Dan, No Use In Cryin’.

“Maggie Mead” – Follywren

Follywren is the brainchild of Bristol musician Kai Carter. We love lots of stuff that Kai does – his old-time trio is great and his original music (Kai & Hollis) is also a tour car staple. We have a real soft spot though for this amazing Follywren album, described as a kind of New Orleans-inspired electric string band. The tuba and electric banjo actually end up landing you somewhere between Clyde Davenport, Ghanaian Highlife, and Captain Beefheart’s Shiny Beast era… a good place to be.

“Rainbow” – Cath & Phil Tyler

Cath & Phil Tyler straddle the traditional and experimental music scenes in the UK and run the Newcastle sacred harp singers. Their albums are a treasure trove of ballads, with Phil’s mesmeric guitar and banjo playing supporting Cath’s one-of-a-kind, transportive voice. In some ways though, they are at their best a cappella where their background in shape note style really shines.

“Shanghai Skyline” – Jeri Foreman & Ruth Eliza

Jeri Foreman & Ruth Eliza are a powerhouse fiddle and banjo duo and you always want to see them on a festival lineup. Where these guys go, good tunes follow and their debut album shows off their musical connection beautifully. Recorded live, we’ve chosen one of Jeri’s tunes to highlight here.

“Chicken & Dumplings” – Ben McManus

Welsh musician Ben McManus is a multi-instrumentalist and promoter of old-time music in the UK. He’s schooled in the history of old-time and has done a number of interesting projects exploring the connections between Wales and Appalachia. He’s also interned at the Smithsonian – absolute dude. This is a laid-back clawhammer guitar and cello version of “Chicken & Dumplings,” a favorite of UK sessions. This record makes us miss Ben, and not just because he makes a mean Negroni.

“Dormae” – Hannah Read

Hannah Read’s first Fungi Sessions album is one of our favorite ever records as a band. We loved the sonics of it so much that we travelled to the studio in Scotland where it was recorded to make our new album. Hannah is now based in the US, but hails from Scotland and comes over frequently to collaborate with the incredible Michael Starkey. Hannah has collaborated with indie royalty Big Thief, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus, and you can hear this broader sonic palette across her output. But the real star of these Fungi Sessions albums is her incredible composition and the subtle magic of her bow arm.

“Wolves A’ Howlin'” – Kieran Towers & Charlotte Carrivick

Kieran Towers & Charlotte Carrivick can most often be found in the bluegrass scene in the UK, but came together for this one-off old-time album of absolute rippers. Charlotte, one of the best flatpickers in the UK, reveals herself to be one of the finest clawhammer players, and Kieran, best known for shredding bluegrass solos, turns into prime Bruce Molsky. Being able to just casually drop this album as a side project is outrageous. A frustratingly brilliant album from two undeniable musical geniuses.

“Glory In The Meeting House” – Ben Paley & Tab Hunter

In our opinion, Ben Paley is the jewel in the crown of British old-time music. He’s performed in loads of different lineups with musicians from the South of England – probably most notably The Long Hill Ramblers and with his dad Tom Paley of The New Lost City Ramblers. His fiddling is just as good as it gets, full of character, groove, and skill. On this record from 1999, he’s backed by Tab Hunter who is an old-time backer with taste, power, and pocket.

“Pterodactyl” – One Night Stringband (Old Spot, Jeri Foreman, Ruth Eliza)

We recorded this collaborative album with Jeri Foreman and Ruth Eliza over the course of one night and a bottle of whisky. We put it out the following day after some hungover mixing and now we perform sporadically as The One Night Stringband for square dances and concerts. We’ve got our seventh and eighth gigs together this summer!

There’s a kind of exploratory madness in these recordings and we all chose tunes we couldn’t get to hang quite right in our duos. There’s a raging version of Rhys Jones’ “I’ll Reap What I’ve Sown,” a version of “Josie-O,” and this, Ruth’s prog-y old-time wig-out “Pterodactyl.”

“Benton’s Dream” – High Strung Trio

From Cork, Ireland, this is one of our favorite old-time records of the last few years. From ex-members of the Grits & Gravy Stringband comes a new trio record of uncompromising ragers. Fiddle player (and luthier) Ian is an absolute machine on this record, laying down danceable bangers like it’s nothing. A great record to pick up new tunes or to power a long car journey, we can’t stop listening.

 “Two Little Sisters” – Sugarwell Hill

Sugarwell Hill is a trio from Leeds in Yorkshire. This is a new record from them that the scene has been anticipating for a while. Recorded confidently and simply, it’s a great snapshot of what is so magical about this laid-back band. “Two Little Sisters” features Simon’s relaxed vocal delivery and groovy banjo playing set against Mick’s gritty fiddle playing. We’re so lucky to have these three in the scene over here, and can’t think of a bad time to stick this beautiful new record on.

“Walk Me Round” – Rhona Dalling

Rhona is another Bristol-based fiddler, singer, and banjo player. This record is, so far, her only recorded output, but like so many of the best trad musicians, her best music happens in sessions and muddy fields. She has an incredible fiddle style, full of poise and effortless technique, and a beautiful voice. This quietly beloved record features a great waltz and her tune “Balfour Road,” which is played in trad sessions up and down the country and has really transcended the old-time scene, thanks to a recording by bal folk band Topette!. Perfect for a rainy day.

“Bear Creek” – Lankum

Whilst most of their repertoire is drawn from Irish folk, experimental trad behemoths Lankum often close their sets with this old-time tune. We couldn’t not include it after watching 20,000 people bouncing up and down to it at Glastonbury!

“Bowling Green” – Joe Mansfield & The Temperance Two

Bristol-based Joe Mansfield is another person you love to see walk through the door at a jam. He’s got an amazing repertoire and is a great hang. He’s got a new duo called The Low Line (watch that space), but he gigs out all the time with the Temperance Two. This is a great version of “Bowling Green.”

“The Roustabout Song” – Old Spot

We heard “The Roustabout Song” sung at a Morris Dance festival singing session. The song sounded distinctly American – a bit of digging led us to English folklorist Sandy Paton and, in turn, the songwriter Dillon Bustin. The song was written at Pinewoods Camp and according to Paton presented both a cappella and with a “lazy river” banjo accompaniment. We’ve done a new joyful fiddle-singing version, bringing out the song’s subtle political undertones. Unfortunately the parasols are twirling faster than ever.

“June Apple” – The Firecrackers

The Firecrackers are five of the UK old-time scene’s stalwarts, and they whip up a frenzy wherever they go. This album of field recordings is a good snapshot of them doing their thing and Benton Flippen’s “June Apple” is their signature tune.

One of the band’s fiddle players, Dave Proctor, edits Old Time News, the quarterly old-time magazine published by FOAOTMAD (Friends of American Old Time Music and Dance), a grassroots organization that has supported the growth of old-time in the UK so much over many years.

Photo courtesy of the artist.