Jakeb Reel takes us on a journey back in time with “(Ballad Of The) Free Bird,” a track that exudes a classic country rock vibe delivered with style and authenticity. Right from the outset, this song pays homage to its roots and inspirations, fearlessly embracing the classic country rock genre.
The standout feature of “(Ballad Of The) Free Bird” is its charismatic vocals. Jakeb Reel delivers the lyrics with an unmistakable country charm that harkens back to the golden era of this musical style. The song encapsulates the essence of classic artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackfoot, and Molly Hatchet while infusing a modern honky-tonk twang and swagger. It seamlessly combines elements of the timeless laid-back Tulsa sound, bright country pedal steel, and hard-hitting guitar solos.
This song was meticulously crafted, recorded over the last months of 2022, and produced by Russ T. Nutz, a figure deeply entrenched in the underground country music scene. Russ T. Nutz, also known as Russell Anders, brings his own brand of “raunchy tonk” to the table and has worked as an engineer on several notable albums. His influence adds an extra layer of authenticity to “(Ballad Of The) Free Bird.”
The origins of the song hold a personal touch, as it was co-written by Jakeb Reel and a childhood friend with whom he shared a musical journey. In a poignant twist, Jakeb’s decision to include this track on his debut record came after his dear co-writer was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma. This emotional connection infuses the song with even more depth and resonance.
Jakeb Reel’s musical journey has its roots in the backwoods of Old Fort, NC, where he was steeped in a rich legacy of country, bluegrass, southern gospel, and rock ‘n’ roll traditions. His move to Nashville in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in his career, where he primarily took on the role of a drummer for Chelsea Lovitt. Since then, he has been involved in numerous recording sessions and live performances with various Nashville artists.
“(Ballad Of The) Free Bird” serves as the lead single from Jakeb Reel’s debut EP, released back in July, and produced by Russ T. Nutz. With this track, Jakeb Reel not only pays homage to the classic country rock sound but also brings it into the modern era with a swagger and style all his own. This song is a testament to his deep-rooted musical heritage and his promising future in the world of country rock.