Fans of Jamey Johnson have long awaited new music from the acclaimed country songwriter, whose last original album, *The Guitar Song*, was released in 2010. After a nearly 15-year hiatus, Johnson is finally starting to break his silence with new material in 2024. The reasons for his extended creative break range from publishing disputes to personal challenges, but it’s clear that a mix of factors put Johnson in a creative funk. In the meantime, he’s focused on live performances and occasional collaborations.
In May 2024, Johnson released “21 Guns,” a patriotic anthem he’d been playing live for a while. This track resonated with fans, especially given Johnson’s background as a former Marine. The song, while specific in theme, felt authentic to Johnson’s identity.
On July 26th, Johnson dropped two singles: the original track “What A View” and a cover of Charlie Daniels’ “Trudy.” “What A View,” co-written with Dallas Davidson, Randy Houser, and Rob Hatch, is a classic love song with a laid-back, island vibe. While the harmonica and steel guitar create a pleasant atmosphere, the song may not live up to the high expectations set after such a long wait. It’s a solid track but not a standout in Johnson’s career.
Ultimately, while “What A View” might not be the next “In Color” or “High Cost of Living,” it’s reassuring to see Johnson back in creative form. Fans will be hoping there’s more to come from this country icon.
