Grammy Nominated artist Charley Crockett brings us the new tales of The Lonesome Drifter

Almost two decades into his career, multi-genre singer-songwriter and guitarist Charley Crockett continues to prove that hard work and musical consistency can carve out a lasting path in the music industry.

Following the release of the Grammy-nominated $10 Cowboy and its sequel Visions of Dallas, Crockett now brings us The Lonesome Drifter. Unlike his 14 previous studio albums, this record shifts away from telling the story of his past and instead looks ahead. This is Charley Crockett showing us where he is going.

The album opens with the title track, setting the tone with a slow, honest tune that’s classic Charley. Short and to the point, it feels like the first step of a new journey for the 10 Dollar Cowboy. One of the standout tracks is the second single, Game I Can’t Win. It takes things back to his roots, reminding listeners that Crockett’s first professional deal wasn’t the result of industry manufacturing but rather years of betting on himself.

A particularly interesting moment on the album comes with Jamestown Ferry, a Tanya Tucker hit that Crockett has recorded once before. This new version is closer to what fans heard on 2023’s Live at the Ryman, with a fuller sound and a welcome brass section that gives the track new life. Another notable cover is George Strait’s Amarillo by Morning. Though not as widely talked about, Crockett adds his own touch to the eighties classic, making it feel like it belongs on this album.

Originals like One Trick Pony and Night Rider dig into the truth of his lived experience. Pulling from the title track of $10 Cowboy, Crockett sums it up plainly: “Cowboys and cowboy singers, both highly hazardous occupations.” This new album captures that feeling. Tracks like This Crazy Life and Life of a Country Singer highlight not only his songwriting ability but also the often unseen hardship of life on the road. They remind us that the life of a musician is rarely as glamorous as it looks. It takes grit, sacrifice, and a whole lot of heart.

Starting out in the streets of New Orleans’ French Quarter more than twenty years ago, Charley Crockett has built a career brick by brick. In just one year, he has released three studio albums, toured nonstop, and played legendary stages like Farm Aid, the Houston Rodeo, and Austin City Limits. He has turned the hustle of busking into something much bigger. It’s not a brand. It’s a way of life.

Stream The Lonesome Drifter now, and catch Crockett on tour with Leon Bridges when he rides through your town.