Sammy Brue pays tribute to his mentor by writing, finishing, or re-imagining never-before-recorded songs found in Earle’s journals, entrusted to Sammy by Justin’s widow. Some of the songs on the album are based on lyric sheets Brue found. Others are co-writes or songs Brue wrote based on compilations of ideas and little paragraphs Earle wrote. Fans of Justin Townes Earle will be grateful to Brue for this lovingly crafted album and will become more familiar again with a singer and songwriter dedicated to bringing the beauty of folk to the world.
The new Sammy Brue album, inspired by the journals of Justin Townes Earle
Watch the first video from The Journals, “Lord, I’m Ready Now”
A 21st-century troubadour who spins layered story songs that deal with the sunlight and shadows of the human condition, Sammy Brue follows in the authentic outlaw songwriter lineage of Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, Rodney Crowell, and Justin Townes Earle. Brue's new album, The Journals, pays tribute to his mentor by writing, finishing, or re-imagining never-before-recorded songs taken directly from Earle’s journals, entrusted to Sammy by Justin’s widow. Some of the songs on the album are based on lyric sheets Brue found. Others are co-writes or songs Brue wrote based on compilations of ideas and little paragraphs Earle wrote. Sammy Brue showcases his lyrical ingenuity, his musical versatility, his innovative songwriting style, and his ringing vocal style on his new album. Like a poet, he commands attention with a vibrant opening chord and a vivid lyric; Brue pulls listeners into his story world, and they’re transfixed by his sometimes playful, always perceptive readings of the human heart. Fans of Justin Towne Earle will be grateful to Brue for this lovingly crafted album and will become more familiar again with a singer and songwriter dedicated to bringing the beauty of folk to the world.
Sammy first came on the radar of Rolling Stone Magazine at the age of 13. Recognized for his songwriting, Sammy started making waves in the Americana scene and was signed to New West Records for 2 studio records "I Am Nice" and "Crash Test Kid" and independently released his latest album "Nocturnal Country" Sammy started touring and making friends with some of the biggest names around. Starting with a full national tour with his friend and mentor Justin Townes Earle, to touring internationally with The Marcus King Band, Sammy graced stages all around the world by the age of 18. Rooted firmly in his folk style of writing, Sammy was named one of six teenagers changing music by the New Yorker Magazine. he has defined himself as being a working musician and songwriter at his core.
Sammy has opened and toured with artists like Billy Strings, Mike Campbell, Lindsey Buckingham, The Marcus King Band, Justin Townes Earle, Steve Earle, Michael Kiwanuka, John Paul White, Lucinda Williams, Rodriguez, Iron and Wine, John Moreland, Margo Price, Hayes Carll, Asleep at the wheel, and many more.
Sammy has played festivals and events such as Newport Folk Festival, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Moab Folk Fest, Twilight Series (Ogden), and Americana Fest.