Tag: track premiere

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Jarrod Walker, Dailey & Vincent, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

Welcome to another edition of our weekly round-up of new roots music! You Gotta Hear This…

To get us started this week, Dailey & Vincent continue to tease tracks from their upcoming album, A Beautiful Life, which will arrive on June 12. In the meantime, they’re sharing a music video for “Moon Shines on the Still,” another delightfully bluegrassy number for the country-and-gospel-and-bluegrass powerhouse duo. The fresh single’s breakneck tempo doesn’t stymie any of the fine pickers who shred throughout the feisty song about moonshine running and that good ol’ mountain dew. For another bluegrass duo, check out fiddlers Deanie Richardson & Kimber Ludiker launching their new track, “Rutland’s Reel.” It’s an acrobatic and challenging tune by Howdy Forrester with several complicated parts, but these two turned it into a stellar twin fiddle number anyway. What, like it’s hard?

From Asheville, North Carolina, Appalachian string band TANASI infuse their songs and tunes with influences from around the world. “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)” is their timely rendition of a George Harrison song, on which Dobroist and multi-instrumentalist Billy Cardine plays a chaturangui, a slide instrument that draws from Indian classical music traditions. Watch a performance video for their cover below. Singer-songwriter Maisy Owen has shared a new music video today, too. “Dark On A Sunny Day” is lush indie folk wrapped in a sonic dreamscape, with a slightly dark and gritty tinge to pair perfecdtly with her evocative lyrics. The beat pulses forward, pushing and pulling the track ahead.

Plus, mandolinist Jarrod Walker – who you may know from Billy Strings’ band – just this week announced an upcoming solo album, Nighthawk, his first release as an artist in his own right. Prior to the album announcement Wednesday, Walker unveiled an upcoming tour in May. Now the lead single/title track from his debut LP is available everywhere, and we’re sharing the lyric video visualizer for the remarkably straight-ahead bluegrass number below. Nighthawk arrives in full on May 8.

Bluegrass, folk, and indie; mandolins, fiddles, and banjos; moonshine, darkness, and emotions – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You Gotta Hear This:

Dailey & Vincent, “Moon Shines on the Still”

Artist: Dailey & Vincent
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Moon Shines on the Still”
Album: A Beautiful Life
Release Date: April 10, 2026 (single); June 12, 2026 (album)
Label: Pillar Stone Records

In Their Words: “‘Moon Shines on the Still’ is a fun, up-tempo song with a lot of personality. It’s the kind of record that makes you want to roll the windows down and enjoy the ride.” – Jamie Dailey

“We had a blast recording this one. ‘Moon Shines on the Still’ has energy, heart, and a sound that feels both fresh and true to who we are.” – Darrin Vincent

Maisy Owen, “Dark On A Sunny Day”

Artist: Maisy Owen
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Dark On A Sunny Day”
Album: Dark On A Sunny Day
Release Date: April 10, 2026 (single); May 1, 2026 (album)
Label: Tompkins Square

In Their Words: “There was a period of time two years ago in the summer when I was writing almost every night. ‘Dark On A Sunny Day’ was one of the first songs I kept. There’s a kind of honesty that comes with someone’s early work, something I always look for when I deep dive into a new musical obsession. Something early is something pure. This is the only song on the album with a full band arrangement. The instrumentation is dark and unceasing. There is no metaphor or veil regarding the lyrics, they are candid.” – Maisy Owen

Deanie Richardson & Kimber Ludiker, “Rutland’s Reel”

Artist: Deanie Richardson & Kimber Ludiker
Song: “Rutland’s Reel”
Release Date: April 10, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “‘Rutland’s Reel’ was written by one of my ultimate fiddle heroes, Howdy Forrester. In typical Howdy fashion, it’s got several parts and is challenging to play. It was a lot to take this one on as a twin fiddle piece and Kimber took on the challenge of learning the harmony part. She nailed it! I’m so proud to have this tune on our record honoring the great Howdy Forrester.” – Deanie Richardson

Track Credits:
Deanie Richardson – Fiddle
Kimber Ludiker – Fiddle
Cody Kilby – Acoustic guitar
Hasee Ciaccio – Upright bass
Tristan Scroggins – Mandolin
Kristin Scott Benson – Banjo

TANASI, “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)”

Artist: TANASI
Hometown: Asheville, North Carolina
Song: “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)”
Album: TANASI
Release Date: April 9, 2026 (single); May 8, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “This song by George Harrison feels especially relevant right now – we need as many songs about peace and love as possible in difficult times. It echoes both backward and forward, carrying layers of meaning that resonate personally and globally. In addition to honoring the song itself, we wanted to pay tribute to Harrison’s influence – particularly his role in bringing classical Indian instruments like the sitar into popular music. Alongside his signature Dobro, Billy Cardine plays the chaturangui, a slide instrument developed by his teacher in India, Debashish Bhattacharya. With its 22 strings, it creates a rich, shimmering tone reminiscent of the textures heard in many of Harrison’s recordings. Mary Lucey and Anya Hinkle share the lead throughout, trading lines and weaving their voices together in sister-like harmony.” – TANASI

Track Credits:
Billy Cardine – Dobro, chaturangui
Mary Lucey – Bass, vocals
Anya Hinkle – Guitar, vocals

Jarrod Walker, “Nighthawk”

Artist: Jarrod Walker
Hometown: Lithia, Florida
Song: Nighthawk
Album: Nighthawk
Release Date: April 8, 2026 (single); May 8, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “A few years back, I stumbled upon the word ‘Nighthawk’ in The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows, a collection of definitions for newly invented words that describe unnamed emotions, feelings, and experiences. Initially, ‘Nighthawk’ began as a moody, vibey track, but Christian Ward and I soon realized it worked better as a straight up bluegrass song. Once we committed to that approach we were able to lock down a couple verses, a chorus, and everything started to take shape. One of the trickest parts of songwriting is revisiting an unfinished song, returning to that headspace to add final touches Eventually we added a third verse which tied it all together with a big ribbon and bow. Now I couldn’t imagine it without it. I find that with trad bluegrass it’s best to keep things close to home or else you risk losing the essence of the song. I say that now, but ask me how I feel next year. The band knocked this one out in a few takes and later Billy [Strings] added a killer tenor harmony. Ultimately, ‘Nighthawk’ wound up being by far one of the grassiest tracks on the record.” – Jarrod Walker

Track Credits:
Jarrod Walker – Vocals, mandolin
Cory Walker – Banjo
Jamie Dick – Drums
Christian Ward – Fiddle
Jake Stargel – Guitar
Royal Masat – Upright bass
Billy Strings – Background vocals

Photo Credit: Jarrod Walker by Jesse Faatz; Dailey & Vincent by Gregg Roth.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From River Shook, Bryan Sutton, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

It’s another edition of our weekly collection of new roots music! You Gotta Hear This…

To get us started, singer-songwriter Jenn Grinels is giving us a preview of her upcoming single, “Always On The Run,” which will arrive next week. The track combines Californian indie twang with straight-ahead country & western and a gothic twist. While Grinels is an accomplished songwriter herself, in this instance she composed the music while the evocative, text-painting lyrics were penned by Alfred Howard, a poet and musician. We’re also very excited for new music from River Shook, who you may know from their prior project, Sarah Shook & the Disarmers. Their new roots-folk single, “Wildlands,” is actually a song begun more than 10 years ago – and in a completely different set of circumstances. Shook completed the song channeling feelings from their recent shift from the Disarmers to this new era, performing and releasing music solo, under their own name. With this track, we’re certainly looking forward to what comes next from Shook.

In bluegrass, Lonesome River Band pull a song seen performed by Stringbean (David Akeman) on The Porter Wagoner Show for their new single. “Pretty Little Widow” is hilarious and first rate, even employing an all-too-rare traditional bluegrass instrument, the Telecaster. Its twangy punctuations are a perfect addition to the single, out today. Acclaimed guitarists Bryan Sutton and Kenny Smith also launch a track today, “Three Star Hornpipe,” from Sutton’s upcoming album of six-string duets. Sutton and Smith’s decades-long friendship is easy to hear on the relaxed and loping modern fiddle tune.

There are a couple of great cover songs included today, too. Nashville-based artist Sweet Megg shares her new video for her most recent single, “Come On Up to the House,” her interpretation of the Tom Waits classic. She was inspired by her own family homeplace, a literal and figurative refuge where she grew up in New York City. Plus, after a lifetime of playing sets of cover songs, Jessie Wilson finally releases a cover – and it’s none other than Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” A failsafe choice for a first cover release, Wilson’s take on the iconic favorite has a deep pocket, head-bobbing feel changes, and bluegrass instruments tucked into every one of the track’s nooks and crannies.

We hope you enjoy these songs as much as we have. You Gotta Hear This!

Jenn Grinels, “Always On The Run”

Artist: Jenn Grinels
Hometown: Originally Cupertino, California; currently working out of New York City
Song: “Always On The Run”
Release Date: April 10, 2026

In Their Words: “This song is a collaboration, with lyrics by Alfred Howard and music by me. I’ve always admired Al’s poetry, spoken word, and lyricism, so when he first reached out about collaborating, I was thrilled. These were the first lyrics he sent me – of many songs we ended up working on together – and when I read them, I was instantly inspired. The songwriting process was so quick, which definitely doesn’t always happen, and that ease ended up inspiring and setting the tone for the rest of the record.

“The imagery in Al’s writing naturally leant itself to this western feel that carries throughout the album – and a lot of that is rooted in the desert landscapes of Southern California that inspire him.

“At its heart, the song is about endless ambition – and the exhaustion that can come with it. We’re always reaching for our dreams, both of us having spent so many years in this business, constantly chasing that setting sun – and to metaphorically walk into it. It’s special to work with someone who’s in a similar place in life. He can write something deeply personal that I immediately connect to, and that sparks something in me musically.” – Jenn Grinels

Track Credits:
Jenn Grinels – Vocals, acoustic guitar, composer
Alfred Howard – Lyricist
Mike Butler – Guitars, lap steel, percussion, producer, engineer
Jason Littlefield – Bass
Jake Najor – Drums

Lonesome River Band, “Pretty Little Widow”

Artist: Lonesome River Band
Hometown: Floyd, Virginia
Song: “Pretty Little Widow”
Release Date: April 3, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “Jesse [Smathers] brought this song to our attention from a video of Stringbean on The Porter Wagoner Show from the 1960s. We all love Stringbean’s music, and it was a song I had not heard before. He was backed by Porter’s country band and the electric guitar had a great part in the song. So it was an obvious choice of tunes for this project. Rod Riley on the Tele captures the vintage sound of that era of country music.” – Sammy Shelor

Track Credits:
Sammy Shelor – Banjo
Jesse Smathers – Acoustic, lead vocal
Mike Hartgrove – Fiddle
Adam Miller – Mandolin, harmony vocal
Kameron Keller – Upright bass
Rod Riley – Electric guitar

Bryan Sutton, “Three Star Hornpipe” with Kenny Smith

Artist: Bryan Sutton with Kenny Smith
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Three Star Hornpipe”
Album: From Roots to Branches
Release Date: April 3, 2026 (single)
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “I met Kenny when I first moved to Nashville. He had been there already a few years and was living down there near Wartrace, Tennessee, doing some work with Gallagher. And I forget exactly where I might have met him, but I was probably around the Station Inn or one of the music stores in Nashville. I went down and hung out with him. I had a guitar that I had some questions about and wanted to show it to him – you know, some structural issues – and he took a look at it and we played a little bit and I’ve just known him ever since. This is the early ’90s, over 30 years ago, and I just maintained a friendship with him all through these years.

“I’ve always loved the way Kenny is reverential towards fiddle tunes when he plays. He really finds that sweet spot of his guitar artistry, but you hear the melodies – he’s playing the tune and presenting the melody. I found this old song, ‘Three Star Hornpipe,’ that I’d heard from a fiddler named Roger Howell here in Western North Carolina. Tommy Hunter had recorded it years and years ago. I found an original recording and sent it to Kenny and went like, ‘What do you think? Here’s a tune that neither of us have ever played.’ Again, I didn’t necessarily want to do an obvious, low-hanging fruit kind of fiddle tune. So here was a newer tune and he was game to do it. That’s how we got into that tune, and I just love what he did with it.” – Bryan Sutton

Track Credits:
Bryan Sutton – Acoustic guitar
Kenny Smith – Acoustic guitar

River Shook, “Wildlands”

Artist: River Shook
Hometown: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Song: “Wildlands”
Release Date: April 3, 2026

In Their Words: “I started writing ‘Wildlands’ when I was seeing a deeply controlling, scary person. One summer day, I snuck out of the house and went to the Haw River to clear my head. I sat writing at the water’s edge, feeling brave for the first time in years, and when I got back home, I hid the piece of paper with the lyrics deep in my closet. Nothing came of the song for almost a decade.

“Last year, when I decided to end my band (Sarah Shook & the Disarmers) and start over under my new name (River Shook), those old feelings came rushing back – fear, bravery, clarity, strength – and I remembered ‘Wildlands.’ I kept the original first verse, reworked the other two, and wrote a new chorus. Releasing this song is such a beautiful full-circle moment in my life. I feel so lucky to share ‘Wildlands’ with you.” – River Shook

Track Credits:
River Shook – Vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, songwriter, producer
Blake Tallent – Drums, bass, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, pedal steel, harmonica, percussion, producer

Video Credits: Samantha Kniskern

Sweet Megg, “Come On Up To the House”

Artist: Sweet Megg
Hometown: New York City; based in Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Come On Up To the House” (Tom Waits cover)
Album: Massive Negroni
Release Date: April 1, 2026 (single); May 1, 2026 (album)

In Their Words:  “When I heard this song, it reminded me of home – not just a place, but a feeling. My family came from Ireland in the 1920s and settled in the house where my mother grew up and where I grew up too. That house holds so many memories of family and friends. It’s a sacred space.

“When the world feels like it’s on fire, I can step inside and enter another dimension of peace and tranquility. That’s what home can be. This song by Tom Waits carries that feeling for me. It’s an invitation, a prayer I offer to others: when the world is getting you down, come on up.” – Sweet Megg

Track Credits:
Sweet Megg – Vocals
Hunter Strasser – Guitar
Norbert McGettigan – Bass
Chris Gelb – Drums

Video Credits: Filmed and edited by Matthew Farrell.

Jessie Wilson, “Jolene”

Artist: Jessie Wilson
Hometown: Phenix City, Alabama
Song: “Jolene”
Album: Rebel & Reverie (EP)
Release Date: April 3, 2026 (EP)

In Their Words: “As a girl who has played hundreds of cover shows in my lifetime, I’ve never actually released a cover song. I play ‘Jolene’ frequently at my live shows and we perform it a bit different. We play the choruses in double time and the verses in a half time, giving it our own spin.

“I recorded this version after jumping in a session with musicians I hadn’t met yet, who all happened to be monster musicians. We recorded at Station West in Nashville with Ilya Toshinskiy (acoustic guitar), Steven Sinatra (drums), Jimmy Nichols (keys), Kris Donegan (electric guitar), and Rob Cureton (bass). It surpassed my expectations and the session felt so natural and easy despite being in a room filled with all musicians that I was meeting for the first time. Sometimes, you just feel so ‘at home’ with a song, it feels like it gives you no choice but to release it.” – Jessie Wilson

Track Credits:
Jessie Wilson – Lead vocal
Nicole Boggs – BGVs
Steve Sinatra – Drums
Ilya Toshinskiy – Acoustic guitar
Jimmy Nichols – Keys
Kris Donegan – Electric guitar
Rob Cureton – Bass
Andy Ellison – Dobro

Photo Credit: River Shook by Jillian Clark; Bryan Sutton courtesy of the artist.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From John R. Miller, Eilen Jewell, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

Welcome to another edition of our weekly roundup of new roots music! You Gotta Hear This…

First up, country singer-songwriter Erin Gibney gives us a preview of a brand new version of “Risk It,” one of the first true love songs she had ever written. In this iteration, it’s stripped back to a more simple and acoustic approach, but still with a pop country sheen and plenty of big, energetic moments. Also in country, Carly King has announced her upcoming album, Loving You Is Easy, with a lovely and tender lead single, “Three Martinis.” King wrote the song about a fated trip to New York City where she fell in love with the man who would become her fiancé. It’s full of memories, nostalgia, and lush with imagery of falling head over heels, all wrapped in a cozy and gauzy folk-country package.

In the bluegrass world, North Carolina’s Unspoken Tradition highlight their working-class bluegrass bent with a new single, “Company Man,” which celebrates and interrogates the reality of blue-collar, hard working folks in this day and age. As they describe it, “The song tells the story of a man who seems to live to work, not work to live. There’s pride in that, but also a sense of stoic sadness.” Also speaking to the social and political climate of today, folk artist and singer-songwriter Eilen Jewell has released her own version of Woody Guthrie’s important and sadly still applicable song, “Deportee.” Jewell’s rendition is twangy, honky-tonking, and plaintive, drawing inspiration from the first time she ever heard the song as a teenager. She tells us that story – and about how the number has “haunted” her since – below.

Roots music fans will also enjoy watching singer-songwriter Adam Klein perform “Burnin’ Love,” an original song, in a brand new music video. Previously released in 2015, Klein returned to the track with collaborator Adam Poulin for a simple duo, acoustic reimagination of the song, which Klein wrote while on a Peace Corps mission in Mali in West Africa. And be sure you don’t miss a brand new single – and live performance video, to boot! – from West Virginian Americana troubadour John R. Miller. “If You Could Only See Me Now” is Miller’s take on a song written by a dear friend and musical compatriot, William Matheny. It’s another two-stepping, honky-tonk ready track perfect for sliding across the shiny floorboards or leaving a tear in your beer. Miller inhabits the lyric intuitively, with languid and laid back phrasing while the lyric, fiddle, and pedal steels pull him along.

There’s plenty to listen to and love. You Gotta Hear This!

Erin Gibney, “Risk It (Stripped)”

Artist: Erin Gibney
Hometown: Southington, Connecticut and Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Risk It (Stripped)”
Release Date: April 3, 2026
Label: Rock Ridge Music

In Their Words: “I wrote this song after meeting my now-fiancé and it is one of the first true love songs I have ever written. ‘Risk It’ really describes the feeling of falling in love knowing that it could either end in marriage or the greatest heartbreak of your life. During the beginning of the relationship, I felt all the fears and excitement that come in the early stages of love. I brought this experience to Kipp Williams when we began working together and this became the first song we created. It was so much fun to not only try something new with my sound, but explore new themes in my music. This song is so close to my heart and I can’t wait for the world to hear this reimagined version of it!” – Erin Gibney

Track Credits:
Kipp Williams – Producer, songwriter, all instruments
Erin Gibney – Vocals, songwriter

Eilen Jewell, “Deportee”

Artist: Eilen Jewell
Hometown: Boise, Idaho
Song: “Deportee”
Release Date: March 24, 2026
Label: Signature Sounds

In Their Words: “I first heard ‘Deportee’ when I was a teenager. I can’t recall which version it was, but I remember I was babysitting a little girl who was about six years old. She put it in the CD player, cranked it up, and started singing along loudly in a sweet and mournful tone. I could tell it really resonated with her so I listened closely and realized it resonated with me too – the grief in the sudden separation of friends, the ripping away of a shared humanity – it’s haunted me ever since. I’ve heard just about every version of it there is, searching for one as anguished as the one in my memory of that night with the little girl howling along.

“My search never yielded one that quite fit so I altered the song a bit by putting it in a minor key and choosing only the verses that felt closest to the bone. It’s disheartening to think that Woody Guthrie wrote ‘Deportee’ nearly 80 years ago and it still rings true. What can I do but join him in fighting fascism the only way I know how? With my conscience, with my guitar, with my voice.” – Eilen Jewell

Track Credits:
Eilen Jewell – Acoustic guitar, vocals
Jason Beek – Drums, vocals
Jerry Miller – Electric guitar
Matt Murphy – Upright bass

Carly King, “Three Martinis”

Artist: Carly King
Hometown: New Jersey and Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Three Martinis”
Album: Loving You Is Easy
Release Date: March 25, 2026 (single); May 15, 2026 (album)
Label: First City Artists

In Their Words: “I wrote this song about the first time I went to New York with my fiancé, who at the time was my boyfriend of one month and my brother’s best friend of 15 years. We stayed in a tiny hotel room and spent the whole day wandering Manhattan, falling in love, and ducking into dive-y music shops. I found a guitar I fell in love with and bought it and we carried it around the city all day – well, mostly he did. I remember feeling how simple and lucky everything was. Later, over martinis at the Carlyle Hotel (my namesake), guitar beside us, we talked deeply about our past, our families, and our future, and I knew I wanted to build a life with him around music. This song is the first date – it’s the taxi cab that takes you into the album.” – Carly King

Adam Klein, “Burnin’ Love”

Artist: Adam Klein
Hometown: Tucker, Georgia
Song: “Burnin’ Love”
Album: Live at Leesta Vall Sound Recordings
Release Date: April 3, 2026
Label: Cowboy Angel Music

In Their Words: “This album is a mix of previously released and unreleased songs. ‘Burnin’ Love’ was originally released on my 2015 album, Archer’s Arrow, with a full band presentation. Here, like all the songs on this new record, it’s stripped back to just acoustic guitar, vocals, and violin. But it still feels like it packs a punch. It randomly occurred to me to play it on tour in this duo format a couple nights before the session at Leesta Vall, so it’s fresh and a bit off the cuff. If the Archer’s Arrow version gave a nod to Neil Young & Crazy Horse in the sound of the electric guitar, somehow Adam Poulin’s fiddle playing here achieves something similar in its abandon.

“The song itself was written on my first full day in the village I lived in for two years during my Peace Corps service in rural Mali in West Africa. I was listening to the metal roof of my two-room mud house crackle from the blistering sunlight and questioning all my decisions – did I really want to spend two years here on my own in this curious land? It all loomed before me like a joke. I remember thinking of the feeling of solitude and emptiness that accompanies the end of love, and channeled it into this two-chord song.” – Adam Klein

Track Credits:
Adam Klein – Acoustic guitar, vocals
Adam Poulin – Violin, vocals

Video Credits: Filmed and edited by Jeff Shipman.

John R. Miller, “If You Could Only See Me Now”

Artist: John R. Miller
Hometown: West Virginia
Song: “If You Could Only See Me Now”
Release Date: March 27, 2026
Label: Rounder Records

In Their Words: “I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with William Matheny for a majority of my musical life at this point. Probably 15 years or so now, definitely in the widest variety of musical situations. The first time I saw him play at 123 Pleasant Street in Morgantown, West Virginia, in 2004 I passed out on a bench and somehow remembered his set that night. I’d get to meet him a few years later and we’ve been playing shows together ever since.

“William’s been playing in bands since he was in the single digits, and his body of work as a songwriter is huge and detailed, with recurring motifs and great riffs. His way of zooming in on the minutiae of viscerally familiar settings in his writing is something I have always admired, and his songs are imbued with literary and philosophical references that reward repeated listening.

“This is my take on a country song of his, one that we recorded some years back for his album That Grand, Old Feeling. I’ve always loved this song, feels like some unearthed forgotten classic country gem every time I hear it. It’s an evocative, tongue-in-cheek ode to the gutter that reads like a drunk postcard to a lost loved one back home.” – John R. Miller

“I’ve played a lot of music with John R. Miller over the years. Sometimes it was my band, sometimes it was his, and sometimes it was something else entirely. When the subject comes up, I usually tell people that we’ve been giving each other the same hundred dollars back and forth for 15 years. I say that completely in jest, of course. We’ve only recently started making that kind of money. When John played [the song] for me, I was incredibly flattered. I mean, it’s certainly not as if he’s hurting for material. On a completely selfish level, I got a huge kick out of hearing such a great singer interpret it and the Tulsa players putting their own spin on it.

“I love songs that bury the lede on the listener a little bit. Stuff like Tom Waits’ ‘Christmas Card From a Hooker in Minneapolis,’ Tom T. Hall’s ‘The Homecoming’ or ‘The Green, Green Grass of Home’ by Tom Jones. I didn’t want to let guys named Tom have all the fun, so I wrote this.” – William Matheny

Unspoken Tradition, “Company Man”

Artist: Unspoken Tradition
Hometown: Western North Carolina
Song: “Company Man”
Release Date: March 27, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “When Unspoken Tradition first started trying to find our niche, we branded ourselves as ‘working class bluegrass.’ Though we’ve grown and evolved, that is still very much who we are. ‘Company Man’ perfectly exemplifies this slogan. Our nation was built by folks just like the man portrayed in this song. I’ve known and was even raised by a few of them. I’d like to think that the men and women this song was written about would appreciate our music.

“The song tells the story of a man who seems to live to work, not work to live. There’s pride in that, but also a sense of stoic sadness. The lines, ‘Only thing waiting is a watch and chain’ and, ‘Old men are really what the company makes’ hit so hard, and could have only been written by Tim Stafford and Mark Bumgarner. These guys are two incredibly talented songwriters and we’re honored they shared this song with us. Evoking images of the hard-working people we all know and love, this song is a bittersweet reminder to work hard but not make work your master.” – Audie McGinnis

Track Credits:
Audie McGinnis – Acoustic guitar, lead vocal
Sav Sankaran – Upright bass, harmony vocal
Tim Gardner – Fiddle, harmony vocal
Ty Gilpin – Mandolin
Zane McGinnis – Banjo

Photo Credit: John R. Miller by Larry Nieuhes; Eilen Jewell by Damu Malik.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Dirk Powell, Daniel Grindstaff, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

Need some new music in your life? You Gotta Hear This!

This time, our weekly roundup is kicked off – pun intended – by mandolinist and singer-songwriter Ashby Frank, who has just released “Stokes County Buck Dancing Man.” Written with Mason Via, the track pays tribute to the tradition of flatfooting and buck dancing at fiddlers conventions, old-time jams, and bluegrass festivals – especially giving homage to Todd “The Bod” Inman of Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention fame. It’s modern bluegrass with plenty of fun, down-home, mountain music infusions. Also in bluegrass, Daniel Grindstaff & the Uptown Troubadours have a brand new self-titled album out today. To celebrate, we’re sharing their cover of “Denver,” a song written by the legendary Larry Gatlin. Whatever the genre, whomever the artist, the song certainly shines; Grindstaff and company do it justice.

Old-time, Cajun, and Americana musician Dirk Powell shares a new lyric video with us today, as well. “Down The Line” captures the musical itinerant lifestyle and career Powell has made for himself, reflecting on the journeys he’s taken from his home in Louisiana to points all over the map – but especially Powell’s beloved Southwest. From West Virginia, singer-songwriter Brad Goodall draws from the river town vibes of his native Huntington for “River Water.” Found at the confluence of clean, manicured soft rock and gritty Americana folk rock, Goodall plays with themes well-placed in roots music: home, belonging, leaving, staying, and – eventually – coming to terms with all of it.

Texan artist, songwriter, and cowgirl Candace Hastings has brought us her new song, “Loving Cowboys,” today as well. It’s a song about being left behind by the person you love, watching the dust kick up from their truck tires as they head off to make their living. Jazzy and swinging, it’s country steeped in the “& western” most of the genre has long since dropped, but Texas keeps well alive for all of us to enjoy. To wrap us up, SUSTO’s acoustic iteration, Susto Stringband, team up with Morgan Wade for “Hard Drugs,” off an upcoming second volume of Susto Stringband. The group wasn’t originally planning to include this song on the project, but were convinced by Wade – to the benefit of each of us.

There’s so much to check out and enjoy below! You Gotta Hear This…

Ashby Frank, “Stokes County Buck Dancing Man”

Artist: Ashby Frank
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Stokes County Buck Dancing Man”
Release Date: March 20, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “I wrote this song with my buddy Mason Via. We both attended fiddlers conventions and bluegrass festivals in North Carolina and Virginia when we were kids and, of course, flatfoot buck dancing and clogging are a big part of these events. There were always so many great musicians and dancers there, as well as some larger-than-life personalities, but Todd ‘The Bod’ Inman from Stokes County, North Carolina, might have been the biggest and brightest character of them all.

“We wrote this song as a tribute to Todd and we were able to send him a work tape version of it before he passed away from cancer in 2024. He loved being the life of the party and the star of the show and he seemed to really get a kick out of our song about him. Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention will never be the same without his iconic dance moves and sense of humor. I was so pleased that Mason agreed to sing harmony with me on this track and I’m so very proud of how it turned out. This one’s for The Bodman!” – Ashby Frank

Track Credits:
Ashby Frank – Mandolin, lead vocal
Seth Taylor – Acoustic guitar
Travis Anderson – Bass
Matt Menefee – Banjo
Tony Creasman – Drums
Mason Via – Harmony vocal
Jim VanCleve – Fiddle

Daniel Grindstaff, “Denver”

Artist: Daniel Grindstaff
Hometown: Elizabethton, Tennessee
Song: “Denver”
Album: Daniel Grindstaff & The Uptown Troubadours
Release Date: March 20, 2026 (album)
Label: Bonfire Music Group

In Their Words: “‘Denver’ lyrically paints a picture and tells a story of heartbreak set against the backdrop of the Rockies. Written more than 40 years ago by legendary songwriter Larry Gatlin, I felt it was the perfect time to introduce ‘Denver’ to a new bluegrass audience. There’s so much about the song that I loved when I first heard it – the melody, the storyline, and the vocal lift in the chorus all grabbed me. Being a huge fan of Larry Gatlin’s songwriting and the music of the the Gatlin Brothers, it’s an honor to put our spin on this great song and show how incredible lyrics and melodies can move through genres and generations and stand the test of time.” – Daniel Grindstaff

Brad Goodall, “River Water”

Artist: Brad Goodall
Hometown: Huntington, West Virginia
Song: “River Water”
Album: Hometown
Release Date: March 20, 2026 (single); May 1, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “Biographical in nature, this song pulled from me a lot of the bittersweet feelings I have regarding my surroundings. ‘You can leave it, it’ll be there when you need it,’ in the hook. West Virginia isn’t going anywhere, and it’s home, but finding my own brand of happiness here took a lot of maturing, because I spent much of my twenties confused, frustrated, and wanting out. As my values changed, my outlook on it brightened.

“This song became more than I imagined in the initial demos. The record version scratches my soft rock itch and even leaves room for a hypothetical live jam in the instrumental bridge section – both of those qualities are pure to me. I was also lucky to have found a defining riff song, which has blossomed again in trending indie and folk songs of today’s landscape. ‘River Water’ is a personal favorite of mine for another reason, it’s malleable. On the road last year and now, I’ve played it as a solo piano ballad, which has brought me close to the tune in inspiring new ways.” – Brad Goodall

Track Credits:
Brad Goodall – Vocals, piano, songwriter, producer
Jason Boesel – Producer
Zack Owens – Guitar, vocals
Griff Goldsmith – Drums, vocals
Macey Taylor – Bass
Jack Tellmann – Engineer

Candace Hastings, “Loving Cowboys”

Artist: Candace Hastings
Hometown: San Marcos, Texas
Song: “Loving Cowboys”
Release Date: March 26, 2026

In Their Words: “I’ve loved a lot of leavers in my life. ‘Loving Cowboys’ is for all of us who stay home and watch the truck kick up dust on the way out of the gate at sunrise or the ship pull away from the dock for yet another six-month tour. It’s about loving someone with a divided heart, a touchstone for those of us who are left behind – how much are we willing to give up of ourselves to make someone else’s dreams come true? ‘Loving Cowboys’ is a song that gets folks to push back the tables in a crowded bar and dance in the dark. It’s a late-night, jazz-tinted country ballad you can’t help but sway to, a dive bar classic jukebox tune that closes out the night for every lonely heart in the joint. So close the blinds and turn down the lights – it’s time to dance.” – Candace Hastings

Track Credits:
Candace Hastings – Vocals, guitar
Lloyd Maines – Guitar
Glen Fukunaga – Upright bass
Chris Gage – Piano
Pat Manske – Drums

Dirk Powell, “Down The Line”

Artist: Dirk Powell
Hometown: Lafayette, Louisiana (Born in Oberlin, Ohio into a family with deep Kentucky roots.)
Song: “Down The Line”
Album: Wake
Release Date: April 17, 2026 (album)
Label: The Last Music Company

In Their Words: “Softly rolling banjos, stark guitars, and distant fiddles paint pictures of journeys from my home in Louisiana through places that have inspired me to lay everything on the line – and given me settings in which to do so. West. South. I’ll take either one, but both at once makes the blood rise in my chest. To feel the moisture of the Gulf give way to chaparral, then to scrubby plains, and finally to the bright desert. Danger and its opposite.” – Dirk Powell

Susto Stringband, “Hard Drugs” Featuring Morgan Wade

Artist: Susto Stringband
Hometown: Asheville, North Carolina
Song: “Hard Drugs” featuring Morgan Wade
Album: Susto Stringband (Volume Two)
Release Date: May 29, 2026 (album)
Label: Missing Piece Records

In Their Words: “‘Hard Drugs’ was written in the early days of SUSTO, shortly after the release of our self-titled debut. It’s a song about loss, and performing it for years has always taken me back to the moment when it was written. It’s one of the songs from our catalog that people have really latched on to over the years and I’m glad to have been able to revisit it for Susto Stringband (Volume Two). I wasn’t originally planning on including this track for the record, but after chatting with Morgan [Wade] about doing a feature for the album, she requested this one in particular and I’m really glad she did. Morgan’s vocals, along with the string band reimagining of the song, have really breathed new life into it for me and reminded me that songs written from the heart can continue to transcend when presented in new light. I’m so grateful for Morgan adding her voice to this song and the stories it represents, and I’m extra glad to finally share it with the world!” – Justin Osborne

Photo Credit: Dirk Powell by Karen Cox; Daniel Grindstaff courtesy of Bonfire Music Group.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Brit Taylor, Trey Hensley, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

Happy Friday! We have new music for you to enjoy and, as always, You Gotta Hear This.

To start us off, Chicago Farmer (singer-songwriter Cody Diekhoff), shares a nostalgic and stripped-down country song, “The Twenty Dollar Bill,” that pays tribute to his grandparents and the “family roots” that he takes with him wherever he goes. The track is from his brand new album, Homeaid, which is out today. Kentuckian country singer, songwriter, and artist Brit Taylor has a new album today as well, Land of the Forgotten. To celebrate, we’re sharing “Done Pretending,” a song from the project co-written by Taylor, Adam Wright, and Jon Decious that decries relationships that are all “take” and no “give.”

There’s plenty of excellent guitar picking included here, too. Bryan Sutton returns to the roundup, this time with blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa in tow. The pair duet on Bill Monroe’s “Blue Night,” acoustic and electric guitars in shred-tastic dialogue on the classic number. The track comes from Sutton’s upcoming duets album, From Roots to Branches. Then, bluegrass and Americana flatpicker Trey Hensley calls on his friend and fellow guitarist Molly Tuttle for his new single, “Going and Gone.” Hensley penned the song with Bobby Starnes and features the bluesy, breakneck picking for which he has become known.

To wrap up, we have a new music video featuring lush and groovin’ Americana from YARN, a genre blurring-and-blending outfit that has been performing and recording for more than 20 years. For a song considering existence, fate, and the rat race at large, “Might as Well Be King” has an exquisite, gritty vibe – an excellent harbinger for the group’s new album, Saturday Night Sermon, arriving in April.

Whether your tastes lean towards bluegrass, blues, country, or Americana – You Gotta Hear This!

Chicago Farmer, “The Twenty Dollar Bill”

Artist: Chicago Farmer
Hometown: Delavan, Illinois
Song: “The Twenty Dollar Bill”
Album: Homeaid
Release Date: March 6, 2026
Label: LoHi Records

In Their Words: “When I was in high school my grandma started giving me a $5 bill to keep in my shoe for emergencies. When I told her I was going to be a musician she upped it to a $10. When I told her I was moving to Chicago she said, ‘You’re going to need a $20.’

“My grandfather lived pretty much his whole life in the same farmhouse that he grew up in. He was a storyteller from a small town and sharp as a tack. Grandma was a city girl, she grew in Peoria, Illinois. The home of Richard Pryor. She rode the city bus and had street smarts. Together, there wasn’t much they didn’t know or couldn’t fix or remedy. Grandpa passed away a few years ago just shy of 102. Grandma will be 98 this summer. They’re farmers, they’re veterans, and they’re my family roots that I take with me wherever I go. In song and in my heart. This song is for them.” – Cody Diekhoff, Chicago Farmer

Trey Hensley, “Going and Gone” Featuring Molly Tuttle

Artist: Trey Hensley
Hometown: Jonesborough, Tennessee
Song: “Going and Gone” featuring Molly Tuttle
Album: Can’t Outrun The Blues
Release Date: March 6, 2026 (album)
Label: Pinecastle Records

In Their Words: “I wrote ‘Going and Gone’ with Bobby Starnes the same day that he and I wrote ‘Can’t Outrun the Blues.’ And I immediately loved both of those songs. It’s one of those story songs that just falls together and paints a picture without spelling out every detail. ‘Going and Gone’ was the first song we recorded for the project – and I was thrilled to get my friend and one of my favorite guitar players and singer-songwriters, Molly Tuttle, to join in on guitar and vocals. We had a blast getting to work together in the studio and I think that comes through in the final recording!” – Trey Hensley

Bryan Sutton, “Blue Night” with Joe Bonamassa

Artist: Bryan Sutton
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Blue Night” with Joe Bonamassa
Album: From Roots to Branches
Release Date: March 6, 2026 (single)
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to have Joe Bonamassa on this duets project. I’ve been a fan of his for a long time. I wasn’t sure what he would play when we cut this song, because all of this was acoustic. I love that he played electric guitar. I love the fact that it’s a different kind of song for this record and being able to interpret an old Bill Monroe song like this was just really, really fun.” – Bryan Sutton

Track Credits:
Bryan Sutton – Acoustic guitar, vocal
Joe Bonamassa – Electric guitar

Brit Taylor, “Done Pretending”

Artist: Brit Taylor
Hometown: Hindman, Kentucky
Song: “Done Pretending”
Album: Land of the Forgotten
Release Date: March 6, 2026
Label: RidgeTone Records, distributed by Thirty Tigers

In Their Words: “I wrote this tune with Adam Wright and Jon Decious – two of the most clever humans I know.

“I don’t know if other women have ever felt this way, but I have been in more than a few relationships that were a whole lot of take and basically no give. Then I realized that once you’ve given all you can give and done all you can do, you reach a point where there’s nothing left. No sadness, no anger, no regret – you are just done. That’s where the character is at in this song. She’s basically emotionless about it. She’s just done and she’s at peace with it.” – Brit Taylor

YARN, “Might As Well Be King”

Artist: YARN
Hometown: New York City, New York
Song: “Might As Well Be King”
Album: Saturday Night Sermon
Release Date: March 6, 2026 (single); April 24, 2026 (album)
Label: 333 Entertainment

In Their Words: “Let the good times roll. We don’t know why we’re here or how any of this existence even works. Is it all fated? Is it all free will? So many folks in competition with each other fighting over some made up ‘green god,’ because they’re taught that is the way. But, it’s entirely up to us as individuals to define our own way. Nothing is law, there are no rules, this is whatever we make it. So the point of this song is nothing more than, don’t put too much stock in these ridiculous systems we’ve created. Have fun being human, embrace your human form and being able to do whatever you want with it; it doesn’t last long.” – Blake Christiana

Track Credits:
Blake Christiana – Lead vocals, guitar
Andy Thomas – Lead guitar, backing vocals
Rick Bugel – Bass
Robert Bonhomme – Drums
Damian Calcagne – Hammond B3

Photo Credit: Brit Taylor by Sammy Hearn; Trey Hensley by Cora Wagoner.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Tenille Townes, Mac Cornish, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

It’s Friday and it’s new music time! We’ve got a few things on the slate that you simply gotta hear.

Starting us off, quickly rising bluegrass up-and-comer 16-year-old Asher Brinson gives us a sneak preview of his upcoming single, “Midnight Hurricane,” the title track for an album the young songwriter and picker has set for release in early April. “Midnight Hurricane” features Sierra Hull on mandolin and Lindsay Lou on vocals – and Brinson more than holds his own among the talented roster on the track.

Also in bluegrass sounds, Jesse Smathers turns the clock and calendar back to the primordial musical ooze before bluegrass with his rendition of “Take A Drink On Me.” The track was inspired by Charlie Poole and the North Carolina Ramblers, with whom Smathers shares a hometown. As the artist and mandolinist puts it, “This tune is a prime example of early popular dance music” – the kinda stuff that inspired the earliest bluegrass artists like Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, and many others. In the hands of Smathers and his band, it’s a bluegrass song fit for any era.

There’s Good Country to enjoy below, as well. Mac Cornish unveils a new track, her cover of Ian & Sylvia’s “Trucker’s Cafe.” You can almost catch the glint of bright sunshine off a chromed truck stop diner listening to the tune, lush with pedal steel and honky-tonkin’ guitar. The boot scootin’ track was recorded in Nashville and produced by Andrija Tokic.

To round us out, Tenille Townes returns to the site with “The Acrobat,” a contemplative and resonant song featuring another of our favs, Lori McKenna. “When you’re barely hanging on it’s easy to let go,” Townes sings, her voice rich with emotion and conviction. The song is the title track for Townes’ upcoming album, set for release in April, and is a fitting nexus point for the LP. “After losing my way for a while,” Townes shares with BGS, “this song felt like such an important anchor for this album.” You can watch the brand new music video for “The Acrobat” below.

Take a scroll and enjoy your listen – You Gotta Hear This!

Asher Brinson, “Midnight Hurricane”

Artist: Asher Brinson
Hometown: Newport, North Carolina
Song: “Midnight Hurricane”
Album: Midnight Hurricane
Release Date: March 6, 2026 (single); April 3, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “When Chris Henry and I got together to write, I told him I was having an ‘off’ day and he said to let it flow – say whatever was on my mind. Those thoughts became the first line of ‘Midnight Hurricane.’ Growing up on the North Carolina coast, hurricanes have always just been a part of my life. And it seemed like they always hit at night! Midnight is quiet, but your thoughts aren’t, and hurricanes are like that — all of your feelings hitting at once. It’s a love story wrapped in chaos and after the storm, there’s a calm that makes you appreciate what’s steady and real. With Sierra Hull on mandolin and Lindsay Lou on vocals, this song instantly became one of my favorites. I feel like they both added just the right touch. While hurricanes unfortunately bring destruction, they also have a way of bringing people and communities together… to uplift each other, support, and rebuild.” – Asher Brinson

Track Credits:
Asher Brinson – Guitar, lead vocal
Cory Walker – Banjo
Jason Carter – Fiddle
Christopher Henry – Bass, baritone vocal
Sierra Hull – Mandolin
Lindsay Lou – Tenor vocal

Mac Cornish, “Trucker’s Cafe”

Artist: Mac Cornish
Hometown: Currently Nashville, Tennessee, but grew up in the Bay Area, California
Song: “Trucker’s Cafe”
Release Date: February 27, 2026

In Their Words: “This single is a cover of the Ian & Sylvia song, ‘Trucker’s Cafe.’ The song is from their 1969 record, Great Speckled Bird, which they also used as the name of their newly formed band, including the likes of Buddy Cage and David Briggs. Ian and Sylvia are a huge influence on me because of their blending of folk, rock ‘n’ roll, and country – especially on this album and this song. The song is a subversive take on the trucking country fad of the 1960s and ’70s, taking the perspective of a heartbroken truck stop diner waitress. The vocals are distinctly folk with their vibrato and falsetto, but the instrumentation is all rockin’ country goodness with walking bass and ripping pedal steel. I’ve always said that the best year in music was 1969. This is one of the many songs I absolutely love from that year in music and it only felt right to record a cover and honor my influences. My cover was recorded in October of 2025 at the Bomb Shelter in Nashville, TN and was produced by Andrija Tokic.” – Mac Cornish

Track Credits:
Mac Cornish – Vocals, acoustic guitar
Charlie Fuerstch – Electric guitar
Jeff Taylor – Piano
Cooper Dickerson – Pedal steel
Jack Lawrence – Bass
Dave Racine – Drums

Jesse Smathers, “Take A Drink On Me”

Artist: Jesse Smathers
Hometown: Floyd, Virginia
Song: “Take A Drink On Me”
Release Date: February 27, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “Though my familial roots are deeply planted in Western North Carolina, I was raised in Eden, NC – the home of Charlie Poole. I spent my youth picking and competing at the Charlie Poole Festival there. The festival was held at Morehead Park, on the same grounds where the cotton mill Poole used to work at once stood. I heard the music of Charlie Poole and the North Carolina Ramblers ringing throughout my childhood. He, along with his bandmates, were some of the most prominent precursors to bluegrass stylings that came nearly 20 years later. Tales of Poole, Posey Rorer, and Norman Woodlief are still being told today, as you would expect, with larger-than-life personalities and musicians.

“I often imagine this scene: walking down Morgan Road in Spray (one of three small communities that made up Eden) in 1926 as a bystander and hearing the centric bounce of Piedmont Mill music in the distance. As I approach, I witness the North Carolina Ramblers sitting on a stoop sharing tunes and a jug of the best white liquor that the area along the NC/VA line is so notorious for. That sight is exactly what came to mind when recording this tune and what comes to mind when I hear it back. This tune is a prime example of early popular dance music. Hunter Berry on fiddle masterfully captured the necessary musical essences all while integrating his own spontaneous and playful liveliness. The same can be said of Corbin Hayslett who mixed in popping Charlie Poole banjo techniques. Whether it’s a Coke, glass of tea, a beer, or a jar of Shooting Creek’s finest, all you rounders get ready to party and ‘Take A Drink On Me’!” – Jesse Smathers

Track Credits:
Jesse Smathers – Guitar, lead vocal
Hunter Berry – Fiddle
Corbin Hayslett – Banjo
Nick Goad – Mandolin, harmony vocal
Joe Hannabach – Upright bass
Patrick Robertson – Harmony vocal

Tenille Townes, “The Acrobat” featuring Lori McKenna

Artist: Tenille Townes
Hometown: Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada
Song: “The Acrobat” featuring Lori McKenna
Album: The Acrobat
Release Date: February 27, 2026 (single); April 10, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “There’s an underlying whisper in this song saying you don’t have to make yourself smaller anymore, and it is my greatest hope that someone hearing this could believe it’s true. I have been navigating a return to self season in my life and reclaiming the belief that I don’t have to contort myself to fit what anyone else needs. After losing my way for a while, this song felt like such an important anchor for this album. Writing this song through the lens of a character helped me to hold enough distance from myself to be able to write the truth, and name the quiet damage that comes from performing, instead of just being.

“Lori McKenna has been a compass influence for me and it’s an honor to have her singing on this song we wrote together. I love how she enters the recording on the line about the fortune teller with all her knowledge, because Lori has been that voice of wisdom for me for years through her songs. The honesty in her lyrics and the way her voice holds emotional tension has given me permission to explore that kind of vulnerability in my own writing. I’m grateful for our friendship, and for the opportunity to share a love for the craft of a song with someone I am still so inspired by.” – Tenille Townes

Photo Credit: Tenille Townes by Madison Rensing; Mac Cornish by Mandi Fountain.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Tony Trischka, Maoli, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

So much new roots music to enjoy this week! From bluegrass to the Pacific Islands and back again.

Starting us off, artist and songwriter Ryan Dart debuts a new song, “Dirt Road Woman,” combining folk, country, and troubadour styles in a musical tribute to strong, empowered women. Below, Dart explains how the song arrived quickly, “like it downloaded straight from the muse.” For a more tropical, seaside country flair, Maoli – who was born and raised in Hawaii – offers a brand new single today, too. “Some Are Just Better” is a track we’ll be returning to plenty this spring and summer, as it celebrates those good, dreamy days that are almost too perfect to believe.

In bluegrass, Lonesome River Band lean into their moniker with a new track, “There Where the River Rolls Around,” written by their longtime friend and songwriting collaborator Billy Smith. Mild and old-timey with lush low-tuned banjo and a laid-back groove, it’s a song about home, homesickness, and place – all perfect topics for ‘grassy explorations. Banjo great Tony Trischka is on his way to a new album, Earl Jam 2, so he’s dropping off a new music video released earlier this week. “Red River Valley” features Molly Tuttle on lead vocal and guitar with Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Sam Bush, and Mark Schatz filling out the band. We can’t wait for more from the second round of Earl Jam. And young mandolinist phenom Wyatt Ellis launched a new video this week featuring a bunch of all stars, too. “West Dakota Rose” is a cinematic instrumental tune centered on Ellis’s virtuosic playing and featuring Christopher Henry joining on guitar. In the official music video, Ellis strolls around a cabin porch while picking through the tune with an excellent slate of pickers – and a tasty twin fiddle break.

Meanwhile, the Montvales offer an old-timey track of their own, “Carolina,” out today in anticipation of their upcoming March album, Path of Totality. While it certainly sounds old-timey, this is a song rooted in the present, heels dug in against late stage capitalism and the rampant woes of our current day-to-day. Also, singer-songwriter Jack McKeon gives us a sneak listen at his new song, “Kid Like Me,” a sort of sonic bridge from his last album, Talking to Strangers, to his next – which is set for release in July. Written with Theo MacMillan and inspired partially by Tim O’Brien, the track began much more bluegrassy than it ended up after reaching the studio.

Finally, Minneapolis, Minnesota’s Roe Family Singers speak truth to power and bring each of us into their communities and neighborhoods with a chilling new folk song, “Blacked-Out Ford.” Living in Minneapolis in 2025 and 2026 means living on the frontlines of fascism, kidnappings, and government overreach, with the Roes and their friends watching chilling federal SUVs surveil their streets and neighborhoods, tearing families apart and violating human rights. The Roe Family Singers highlight ICE’s murders and unlawful actions in song, calling us all to join them in action and solidarity.

We always love sharing new music with you all every Friday, but this one is especially high quality. Enjoy! ‘Cause You Gotta Hear This…

Ryan Dart, “Dirt Road Woman”

Artist: Ryan Dart
Hometown: Boulder, Colorado
Song: “Dirt Road Woman”
Album: If Love Don’t Break You
Release Date: February 20, 2026 (single); May 1, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “I wrote this song about falling in love with a powerful woman and the ‘love bubble’ phase of a relationship – how the outside world just fades away. I know some men may not be comfortable with powerful women, but I think there are plenty of us who are attracted to an empowered, strong woman who also embodies the sacred feminine. It’s incredibly compelling and I wouldn’t want anything else.

“You’ve got to ride the bad horses before you recognize the good ones. I set out to write a love song that felt like a cousin to Jason Isbell’s ‘Cover Me Up’ – something that balances raw, real emotion without ever feeling cheesy. This one came fast, like it downloaded straight from the muse, born of pure feeling. I hope it resonates with listeners the way it does with me.” – Ryan Dart

Wyatt Ellis, “West Dakota Rose”

Artist: Wyatt Ellis
Hometown: Maryville, Tennessee
Song: “West Dakota Rose”
Release Date: February 6, 2026 (single); February 19, 2026 (video)
Label: Knee High Records

In Their Words: “Getting to shoot the music video for ‘West Dakota Rose’ was just one of those days you don’t really forget. The tune already feels like it tells a story without words, so being able to stand in a place that matched that feeling made it even more real. Joseph Cash has directed and filmed all of my music videos so far, and he always makes it an adventure. It’s like showing up not totally sure what kind of wild idea he’s going to have, but somehow it always comes together even better than I could’ve imagined.” – Wyatt Ellis

Performer Credits:
Wyatt Ellis – Mandolin
Christopher Henry – Guitar
Julia Claire Eversole – Bass
Kyle Tuttle – Banjo
Noah Goebel – Fiddle
Christian Ward – Fiddle

Video Credits: Joseph Cash, director, director of photography, editor. Kitt Fresa, gaffer. 

Lonesome River Band, “There Where the River Rolls Around”

Artist: Lonesome River Band
Hometown: Floyd, Virginia
Song: “There Where The River Rolls Around”
Release Date: February 20, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “We got this song for our long time songwriting friend Billy Smith (‘Hobo Blues,’ ‘Tears In My Tracks,’ ‘Crazy Heart,’ among others). As we listened to the song one late night going down the road in the bus, the arrangement just fell into place and we began working on it. A haunting song about leaving home searching for more and longing to be back. Thanks, Billy!” – Sammy Shelor

“The River [in the song] is Haw River in Rockingham County, North Carolina. I always believed that I would make it big playing music and writing songs in Nashville and go back there. I moved here with my brother Terry (the Grascals) and cousin Alan O’Byrant of the Nashville Bluegrass Band. 52 years later, I’m still here, with three kids from two marriages. But I always wanted to return ‘There Where The River Rolls Around’ and it always touches my heart when I hear it sung. Bless Sammy Shelor and the Lonesome River Band for recording that one and 8 other of my songs, including ‘Crazy Heart’ and ‘Hobo Blues.'” – Billy Smith, songwriter

Track Credits:
Sammy Shelor – Banjo
Jesse Smathers – Acoustic guitar, harmony vocal
Mike Hartgrove – Fiddle
Adam Miller – Mandolin, lead vocal
Kameron Keller – Upright bass
Rod Riley – Electric guitar

Maoli, “Some Are Just Better”

Artist: Maoli
Hometown: Haiku, Maui, Hawaii
Song: “Some Are Just Better”
Album: Maoli Music Overload – MMO 3
Release Date: February 20, 2026 (single)
Label: ONErpm

In Their Words: “I’ve been waiting to release this since the day we wrote it. It was my first time writing in Nashville and I was so excited to collaborate with Mikey Reeves and Rob Snyder. I love the horns, the feel, and the lyrics – I’m so proud of how it all came to life.

“We all have days that stand out – not just good days, but the kind where everything falls into place and just feels right. The kind of day you know you’ll look back on and smile about for years. It’s about capturing that feeling. You can’t relive a day once it’s gone, but music has a way of taking you back – even if it’s just for a few minutes.” – Maoli

Jack McKeon, “Kid Like Me”

Artist: Jack McKeon
Hometown: Chatham, New York
Song: “Kid Like Me”
Album: Every Once in a While
Release Date: February 27, 2026 (single); July 3, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “‘Kid Like Me’ began its life as the ‘most bluegrass’ sounding song in the bunch before I went into the studio. Written with Theo MacMillan, we talked a lot about parenting, being an older sibling, and trying to make sense of a world that’s always in flux. Theo’s son was about to be born and I was reflecting on watching my younger sister begin to reach adulthood and face real and more challenging problems. Musically, we spent most of the writing session talking about Tim O’Brien and wrote ‘Kid Like Me’ at a faster tempo that we thought would fit with Tim’s Odd Man In era. Once we were in the studio, it was Casey Campbell and Seth Taylor who turned the recording in a more ambient direction, hinging on Casey’s extended mandolin intro that sets the tone for the rest of the song. I wanted to lead my new project off with ‘Kid Like Me’ as it is reminiscent of the sounds and themes of my debut album Talking to Strangers, but breaks new ground for my production as it features Mellotron, drums, and electric guitar as well.” – Jack McKeon

Track Credits:
Jack McKeon – Acoustic guitar, vocal, songwriter, producer
Seth Taylor – Acoustic guitar, electric guitar
Casey Campbell – Mandolin
Vickie Vaughn – Bass
Josh Hunt – Drums
Phillippe Bronchtein – Keys
Melissa Erin – BGVs

The Montvales, “Carolina”

Artist: The Montvales
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Song: “Carolina”
Album: Path of Totality
Release Date: February 18, 2026 (single); March 20, 2026 (album)
Label: Free Dirt Records

In Their Words: “‘Carolina’ is an old timey song that is firmly situated in late stage capitalism. I called upon the steadfast, rooted sounds of home when I was writing this one. It brings those old sounds forth into this uncertain era and makes a vow: even when there seems to be no path forward, we’ll find a way.” – Sally Buice

Roe Family Singers, “Blacked-Out Ford”

Artist: Roe Family Singers
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Song: “Blacked-Out Ford”
Album: Light & Hope & Roses
Release Date: February 2, 2026 (single)

In Their Words: “We wrote ‘Blacked-Out Ford’ about two weeks after Renee Good was murdered by ICE in our Minneapolis streets. Good’s murder, combined with the discovery that ICE is housed about six blocks from our house and has been seen circling our neighborhood, looking for people to abduct… that’s where this song came from. Our area has a large Muslim population, neighbors primarily from India and Pakistan, also Somalia and Ethiopia, so pretty soon every blacked-out SUV started to look like ICE sharks circling, and every parked truck looked like a prelude to a kidnapping. We debuted the song live at a mutual-aid benefit, and the benefit raised a ton of money; the next morning we woke up feeling proud of ourselves and empowered by the fact that we felt like we were using our art to fight the fascists. Then we got the news that Alex Pretti had just been murdered by ICE in our Minneapolis streets.” – Quillan Roe

Track Credits:
Kim Roe – Washboard, vocals
Quillan Roe – Guitar, vocals

Tony Trischka, “Red River Valley” Featuring Molly Tuttle

Artist: Tony Trischka
Hometown: Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Song: “Red River Valley” featuring Molly Tuttle
Album: Earl Jam 2
Release Date: February 18, 2026 (video); March 13, 2026 (album)
Label: Down The Road Records

In Their Words: “I grew up listening to ‘Red River Valley’ and once I found Earl Scruggs and John Hartford playing it in one of their jams, I knew I had to put it on Earl Jam 2. Who better to sing it than Molly Tuttle? I’ve known Molly since she was a teen (when I thought she was just a solid Scruggs-style banjo player) and it’s been a joy seeing her career take off. She has the perfect voice for this tune and with the estimable talents of Bronwyn Keith-Hynes on fiddle, Sam Bush on mandolin, and Mark Schatz on bass, I knew we had something special. When we’d finished recording and I went back to listen to it the next day, I felt it needed just a little bit more of something. So I got in touch with Bronwyn (talk about careers taking off!) and she added beautiful harmony vocals. The very last vocal chorus melts my heart!” – Tony Trischka

Track Credits:
Tony Trischka – Banjo
Molly Tuttle – Guitar, vocals
Bronwyn Keith-Hynes – Fiddle, harmony vocals
Sam Bush – Mandolin
Mark Schatz – Bass

Photo Credit: Tony Trischka by Ali Hasbach; Maoli by Sean McGee.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Thomm Jutz, Frank Evans, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

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.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Foy Vance, Rissi Palmer, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

We have new music for you, as always, to herald the end of the week and beginning of the weekend. You Gotta Hear This!

From just outside of Washington, D.C., singer-songwriter Connor Daly releases a new single today, “Echoes of Midnight.” An Americana “fast waltz” with a melancholy tinge, the track is clean but gritty. Daly thinks it’s the best song in his catalog to crank through a loudspeaker, and we agree. A longtime friend of BGS and Good Country now, Rissi Palmer releases her brand new EP Perspectives today, so we’re celebrating by sharing a new song from that collection, “Good to Me.” Written with Shannon Sanders and Hilton Wright II, the song finds Palmer much more assured in what she wants and needs from a life partner than she was in her 20s. (Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with Palmer about the EP, coming next week right here on BGS.)

Also in a country space, roots music renaissance man Jim Lauderdale announced a new upcoming album today, Country Super Hits Volume 2. He certainly has plenty of “super hits” to celebrate; we’re kicking off the countdown to the new LP by sharing “Everybody’s Got A Problem.” There’s a kernel of truth in that hook somewhere, isn’t there? Relatable, charming, and effortlessly traditional country, it’s another Lauderdale banger. Then, from across the Atlantic, Foy Vance launched a brand new, homemade music video earlier this week for “Hi, I’m The Preacher’s Son.” With sonics gleaned from the intersection of folk and outlaw, the song is well matched by the trippy and fun video that combines animation, stop motion, and many other forms and styles into a unique visual journey. His dad was a preacher and fond of a parable; the track and video suit their inspiration perfectly.

Don’t miss Bryan Sutton unveiling another tune from his upcoming duets album, as well. This time he’s partnered with fellow guitar picker Jake Stargel on an acrobatic and oftentimes jaw-dropping rendition of the popular fiddle tune-guitar instrumental “Crazy Creek.” These are two of the most personality-rich players and stylist on six strings, doing what they do best. Each single from the album, From Roots to Branches, has been stellar – this latest outing continues that trend.

There’s plenty to enjoy below! Scroll to listen, ’cause You Gotta Hear This…

Connor Daly, “Echoes of Midnight”

Artist: Connor Daly
Hometown: Ashburn, Virginia
Song: “Echoes of Midnight”
Release Date: February 6, 2026

In Their Words: “As soon as I started writing the first pieces of ‘Echoes of Midnight,’ I knew exactly what kind of production I wanted for the song. Going into the studio with David Dorn at Farmland Studios in Nashville, it didn’t take long for him to understand the vision. Big drums, wide acoustic guitar arrangements, and energy pushing through every line. It’s one of those songs that was clearly meant to be played live and I knew I needed to hear it fully take shape in the studio. Lyrically, ‘Echoes of Midnight’ captures a very now-or-never feeling of young love that has always stood out in my catalog. If I could choose any of my songs to play through a loudspeaker, this would be it.” – Connor Daly

Track Credits:
David Dorn – Keys
Shaun Richardson – Acoustic guitar
Tim Denbo – Electric bass
Dave Racine – Drums
Justin Ostrander – Electric guitar
Connor Daly Steggerda – Songwriter, vocals

Jim Lauderdale, “Everybody’s Got A Problem”

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Artist: Jim Lauderdale
Hometown: Troutman, North Carolina
Song: “Everybody’s Got A Problem”
Album: Country Super Hits Volume 2
Release Date: February 6, 2026 (single); March 27, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “This song relates to the common experience of going through difficult times and that very few of us are immune to that; it’s one thing we all have in common.” – Jim Lauderdale

Rissi Palmer, “Good to Me”

Artist: Rissi Palmer
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Song: “Good to Me”
Album: Perspectives (EP)
Release Date: February 6, 2026

In Their Words: “I started this song with Hilton Wright II and completed it with Shannon Sanders (producer of the project). I sat on this chorus for three years, in the midst of a divorce, not sure what I wanted to say. On this side of things, I’m a bit more clear about what I want from a partner. The things that 29-year-old Rissi wanted are very different from what 44-year-old Rissi wants. We had a really good time writing this…” – Rissi Palmer

Bryan Sutton, “Crazy Creek” featuring Jake Stargel

Artist: Bryan Sutton
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Crazy Creek” featuring Jake Stargel
Album: From Roots to Branches
Release Date: February 6, 2026 (single)
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “Ever since Jake Stargel came on the scene, I’ve been fascinated and inspired. I think his playing is continually creative and powerful. He was the one that actually suggested ‘Crazy Creek’ and part of my goal with this duets project was just to try to capture musical conversations with my friends. We definitely do that here with ‘Crazy Creek.'” – Bryan Sutton

Foy Vance, “Hi, I’m The Preacher’s Son”

Artist: Foy Vance
Hometown: Bangor, Northern Ireland
Song: “Hi, I’m The Preacher’s Son”
Album: The Wake
Release Date: February 4, 2026 (video); March 13, 2026 (album)
Label: Rounder Records

In Their Words: “Being a preacher, my Dad was fond of a fable. Parables and philosophies poured out of him on a good day. I couldn’t fully appreciate them at the time, but I would learn to cling to the little wisdoms he shared. So much of him has influenced what I do. Seeking ways to say something concisely.

“I’m glad of that influence. I am also glad to be free of any certainty that gives someone the desire to be a preacher. Even if I felt certain about whatever God might be, I reckon the desire to become a preacher should never allow you to become one!” – Foy Vance

Photo Credit: Foy Vance by Gregg Houston; Rissi Palmer by Dire Image.

You Gotta Hear This: New Music From Dailey & Vincent, Lily Meola, and More

Posted on by Justin Hiltner

For a week of wintry weather over much of the U.S., here’s some brand new music to keep you warm.

To kick us off, singer-songwriter Karen Dahlstrom calls on the Milk Carton Kids’ Kenneth Pattengale for a new single, “The Last of My Line.” Finger-picked acoustic guitar scores a contemplative and devastating “hobo song” about lineage, family, and circumstance – and the existential feelings surrounding being the last in your family line. Ohioan alt-Americana trio Oliver Hazard have a new song out today, as well. “Hold On” is infused with folk-rock sounds of the ’70s and built around a catchy guitar riff brought to the band by picker Devin East. It’s one of those songs that just “poured out.”

In bluegrass, country-grass superstars Dailey & Vincent return to their roots as only they could, with a rip-roaring and stratospheric rendition of a classic, “Ruby.” With an all-star cast of players behind them, the duo blazes through the iconic old-time song made popular in bluegrass by the Osborne Brothers. The D&V rendition is spotless; we hope it’s a harbinger of more bluegrass to come from their camp. Plus, Ashby Frank gives the bluegrass treatment to Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters with “The Pretender.” Out today, it combines style points from both bluegrass and grunge in a deep and lush sonic swirl. Whatever your opinion about what is or is not “no part a nothin’,” the energies of both rock and string band are surprisingly well-matched.

You won’t want to miss Lily Meola’s new song, e8ther. Born in Hawaii, Meola makes modern, crisp country music that’s still rich in rootsy tradition and outlaw textures. “Never Kissed a Cowboy” celebrates that, as she puts it, “chivalry ain’t dead, I guess,” and the fun that can be found when doing a romantic dance with a gentleman instead of, well, a loser. It’s a dreamy country waltz that, while contemporary, seems like it could’ve been plucked from just about any decade in the genre’s history.

There’s certainly plenty to love and enjoy this week! You Gotta Hear This…

Karen Dahlstrom, “The Last of My Line” (featuring Kenneth Pattengale)

Artist: Karen Dahlstrom
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Song: “The Last of My Line” featuring Kenneth Pattengale
Album: Love These Days
Release Date: January 29, 2026 (single); March 27, 2026 (album)

In Their Words: “I’d never really thought about having children – I just assumed I would have them someday. But as the years went on, biology and circumstance made the decision for me. In working through my feelings about being – literally – the last of my family line (my dad was an only child, neither I nor my sisters have biological children), this song started to form. In the back of my mind, I held this idea of a simple, Woody Guthrie-style hobo song with a dash of Lyle Lovett’s ‘Family Reserve.’ I wrote the song I needed when I needed it, without any idea of whether it would resonate with anyone else. To my surprise, it’s one of the songs people say they connect with most.” – Karen Dahlstrom

Dailey & Vincent, “Ruby”

Artist: Dailey & Vincent
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Ruby”
Release Date: January 30, 2026

In Their Words: “We’ve never believed bluegrass had to live in a box, but with ‘Ruby,’ we felt a strong pull to strip things back. It’s a reminder that even as you grow and experiment, you never forget your roots. This song reconnects us with that energy and joy that made us want to do this in the first place.” – Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent

Track Credits:
Bryan Sutton – Acoustic guitar
Darrin Vincent – Bass
Russell Carson – Banjo
Andy Leftwich – Fiddle
Dominick Leslie – Mandolin
Jamie Dailey – Vocals

Ashby Frank, “The Pretender”

Artist: Ashby Frank
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “The Pretender”
Release Date: January 30, 2026
Label: Mountain Home Music Company

In Their Words: “Bluegrass and hard rock often have a similar feeling of ‘drive’ to them; I guess it’s no surprise that many pickers that grew up listening to the shredding instrumentals of bluegrass also have a deep appreciation for great rock musicians. I’ve been a fan of Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters since I was a teenager. I decided to take a giant leap that I’m not sure anyone’s ever made before and cover one of their most iconic songs with a bluegrass-meets-grunge treatment. I really had no idea what the final product would be when I made the decision to record ‘The Pretender,’ but I couldn’t be more proud of what we came up with.” – Ashby Frank

Track Credits:
Ashby Frank – Mandolin, lead vocal, harmony vocal
Seth Taylor – Acoustic guitar
Travis Anderson – Bass
Matt Menefee – Banjo
Tony Creasman – Drums

Oliver Hazard, “Hold On”

Artist: Oliver Hazard
Hometown: Waterville, Ohio
Song: “Hold On”
Release Date: January 30, 2026
Label: Nettwerk Music Group

In Their Words: “‘Hold On’ sounds like home to us. Devin came over one afternoon with a guitar riff he’d just written, and we sat down at the piano and the song just kind of poured out. It felt like the old ’70s records we loved listening to. It felt like growing up where we did – feeling the change of seasons, spending time in the local dives, that urge to leave town, but not wanting to let it go.” – Oliver Hazard

Lily Meola, “Never Kissed a Cowboy”

Artist: Lily Meola
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Song: “Never Kissed A Cowboy”
Release Date: January 30, 2026
Label: Nettwerk Music Group

In Their Words: “My picker really did me dirty for a while, so when I experienced good ol’ fashioned gentleman behavior for the first time, it honestly threw me for a loop. I didn’t know how to receive it. I was like, ‘I can open my own door!?’ Then I started to see it from another perspective: having someone treat you like that is honestly really sweet. It might not be the most logical or efficient way of doing things, but damn, being treated like a princess is kinda fun, and being a gentleman is hot. So this is a love song honoring the men who go the extra mile.” – Lily Meola

Photo Credit: Dailey & Vincent by Greg Roth; Lily Meola by Jo Anna Edmison.