Following the successful launch of the Love Ain’t Pretty Deluxe Edition, multi-talented entertainer Charles Esten today (2/21) delivers a digital song release from the double vinyl. In response to fan demand, Esten’s “Maybe I’m Alright” collaboration with modern Blues legend (and his dear friend) Keb’ Mo’ is now available across all streaming platforms and digital retailers – listen here.
“From the very day I wrote ‘Maybe I’m Alright’ with my friend Leslie Satcher, I felt we had something special. Something else I thought – ‘Keb’ Mo’ would sound amazing on this!’” Esten recalls. “Thanks to my part on NASHVILLE and the many opportunities it brought me in Music City, I became blessed to call him a friend after being a fan for a long time. In 2019, I was lucky enough to co-write a song with him and our wonderful friend Colin Linden. That song (‘Don’t Throw It Away’) ended up on his brilliant album Oklahoma, which garnered him his fifth GRAMMY Award. All of this is to explain how I ever got the nerve to ask him to lend his legendary voice to this song, and in his great kindness, he agreed. The result brings me more joy than I can explain.”
An all-star duet on a transformative standout, the collaboration adds a soulful new dimension to a ballad of fresh beginnings. Written by Esten and Leslie Satcher, and originally appearing as a deep-cut favorite on Esten’s highly acclaimed independent debut album, Love Ain’t Pretty, the tune once again celebrates the dawning of a new day – despite the darkness that lies behind. But now with even more gentle Country Soul.
Produced by Marshall Altman, tender but time-tested vocals from Esten and Keb’ Mo’ combine in a deeply optimistic blend, more powerful than the sum of its parts. Meanwhile, a calming blend of crisp, clean guitars, warm, whirring organ, and laid-back rhythm builds a soundtrack to inner resilience. As the pair trade verses and lay their burdens down, an uplifting, inspirational spirit shines through the shadowed past.
Marking the one-year anniversary of Love Ain’t Pretty, the 23-track Deluxe Edition adds nine new bonus tracks including top-tier collaborations with Keb’ Mo’ and Sara Evans, never-before-heard demos and worktapes, and a live performance recorded from the sold-out NASHVILLE Reunion Tour (with Esten, Clare Bowen, Jonathan Jackson, and Sam Palladio). Now shipping worldwide, fans can purchase the double vinyl here (Esten is also offering a 250-count limited edition batch here).
