Few artists understand the soul of bluegrass guitar quite like Jim Hurst. His impeccable picking, smooth vocals, and deep connection to the genre have made him a standout musician for decades. With his latest single, “Southbound,” Hurst pays homage to the legendary songwriting duo of Doc Watson and Merle Watson, bringing new life to a timeless road-weary anthem.
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For Hurst, “Southbound” isn’t just another song—it’s a deeply personal reflection of the traveler’s journey, one that he knows all too well. “This song is one of my favorites,” says Hurst. “As a road musician, as well as all the other travels I’ve done, this song represents the perspective of the ‘traveler’. Sometimes while I’m doing exactly what I love – perform and/or teach music, I really miss home even more and want to get back to my family.”
That sentiment is woven into every note of “Southbound,” which pairs Hurst’s warm, expressive vocals with an outstanding instrumental lineup. The track features Christian Ward on fiddle, Kyle Tripplett on banjo, Matt Wingate on mandolin, and Michael Gaisbacher on bass, each player contributing to a rich, dynamic soundscape that feels both classic and fresh. The interplay between instruments is masterful, offering a driving yet melancholic rhythm that mirrors the longing at the song’s core.
Hurst’s signature guitar work is, of course, front and center. His fluid picking and effortless transitions remind us why he’s been recognized as one of the finest bluegrass guitarists of his generation. His two-time win as IBMA’s “Guitar Player of the Year” is well-earned, and “Southbound” is yet another example of why his skills remain unparalleled. Every note he plays feels intentional, every strum and run carrying the weight of years spent honing his craft.
“Southbound” is a fitting addition to Hurst’s already impressive catalog. His career has been nothing short of remarkable, spanning decades of collaboration with top-tier country and bluegrass artists, along with a thriving solo career that began in 2010. With seven albums to his name—including Open Window, Second Son, and Atlantic Crossing—Hurst has continuously demonstrated a knack for blending tradition with innovation. His music is a testament to the power of storytelling, and “Southbound” is no exception.
Fans of Doc Watson’s original recording will appreciate Hurst’s reverence for the song’s roots, while newcomers will find themselves drawn in by its universal themes of longing and homecoming. It’s a song for anyone who has ever felt the pull of the road, the ache of distance, and the joy of returning home.
With Southbound, Jim Hurst reaffirms his place as one of bluegrass music’s most gifted interpreters. The song is both a tribute and a personal statement, performed with a level of skill and sincerity that few can match. Whether you’re a lifelong bluegrass fan or a casual listener, this is a track that deserves a spot on your playlist.
Garth Thomas