Ketch Secor, lead vocalist and fiddle player of Old Crow Medicine Show, has released his solo album, Story the Crow Told Me, which serves as a poignant exploration of his experiences in Nashville. The album, available from July 11, 2023, reflects his journey as a musician and the evolving landscape of the city that has shaped his career.
Secor’s memories of arriving in Nashville in 2000 paint a vivid picture of the struggles and resilience of aspiring artists. He recounts living in a motel room, surrounded by individuals from various walks of life, all striving to find their footing. “We gravitated to that area and lived in a motel room by the week,” he shared in an interview with Billboard. “It’s kind of a sink-or-swim strip,” he added, highlighting the challenges faced by many on Dickerson Road, the album’s first single.
The track “Dickerson Road” pays tribute to the gritty area north of downtown Nashville, filled with small businesses and motels that have long served as a refuge for musicians. This song showcases Secor’s rapid-fire, spoken-word style paired with a driving rhythm and electric guitar from Jaren Johnston of The Cadillac Three. The collaboration reflects a shared history, as Secor and Johnston previously worked together on the song “Hillbilly.”
Throughout the album’s twelve tracks, Secor distills over two decades of experiences within the Nashville music scene. “I started thinking about this unique perspective I have on the country music experience in Nashville,” he explained. The project serves as a cathartic journey, allowing him to unlock memories and emotions associated with his time in the city.
The album was produced by Jody Stevens, known for his work with mainstream country artists like Luke Bryan and Cole Swindell, as well as his contributions to the rap genre. Secor found an unexpected ally in Stevens, who expressed a desire to create music that resonates with Old Crow’s essence. “He saw me at 23 and watched what I did and knew what was compelling about it,” Secor noted.
Secor’s musicianship shines through as he plays nearly a dozen instruments on the album, including bass, organ, and even spoons. The blend of spoken-word performances and traditional instrumentation creates a unique sound that reflects both old-time and modern influences. The track “Junkin’” celebrates the thrill of discovering hidden vinyl treasures, while “Holes in the Wall” pays homage to the small venues that shaped his artistry.
Notable contributions come from Marty Stuart, a Country Music Hall of Fame member and early supporter of Old Crow. Stuart’s presence on tracks like “Highland Rim” and “Ghost Train” adds depth, as he plays mandolin on “Old Man River.” Secor describes Stuart’s mentorship as “a hillbilly anointment,” recognizing the significance of his influence in their shared journey.
The album’s final track, “What Nashville Was,” encapsulates Secor’s complex feelings towards a city undergoing rapid change. The song incorporates harmonies from Molly Tuttle and samples from Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, emphasizing the deep historical connections within Nashville’s music landscape. Secor expressed his commitment to the city, acknowledging both its vibrancy and the challenges it faces.
“I love Nashville for better, for worse, through thick and thin,” Secor stated, reflecting on the city’s evolution. He advocates for a balanced approach to growth, questioning what the future holds. “Do we want condos? Do we want parks?” he pondered, urging a dialogue about the city’s direction.
Aside from his musical endeavors, Secor has actively engaged with the Nashville community. He will take over as host of the PBS travel and entertainment series Tennessee Crossroads in September 2023. His advocacy for social issues is evident in his responses to local tragedies, including a benefit single released after the 2020 tornadoes and a song aimed at promoting gun safety following the tragic shooting at the Covenant School in March 2023.
As a longtime resident of Nashville, Secor’s love for the city is deeply intertwined with his artistic identity. Story the Crow Told Me stands as a testament to his journey, offering listeners a glimpse into the past while navigating the complexities of the present. The album serves not only as a musical project but also as a reflection of the evolving cultural landscape of Nashville, blending tradition and innovation in a way that resonates with audiences old and new.