Hear Luke Grimes’ New Song, ‘Playin’ On The Tracks’

“We were trying to capture the outlaw spirit of a sort of rambler. Once we got going it sort of fell out,” the singer shared.

By

Madeleine O’Connell

| Posted on

June 5, 2023

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2:11 pm

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Photo Courtesy Luke Grimes

Luke Grimes offers a slice of reality as he beckons for a life full of adventure and freedom in his latest release, “Playin’ On The Tracks.” 

The Mercury Nashville / Range Music recording artist paired up with coveted songwriter Brent Cobb to capture the outlaw essence, honing in on the kind of person who chooses to roam the world on an open path with nothing in his way.  

“This song was my first co-write with the very talented Bent Cobb and I realized pretty quickly that he was going to be a big part of my musical journey,” said Grimes shared in a press release. 

Throughout the unhurried tune, the singer/songwriter showcases his Ohio-raised vocals overlayed with light percussion and a soulful message. 

“With ‘Playin’ On The Tracks,’ it started with a mood,” he continued. “We were trying to capture the outlaw spirit of a sort of rambler. Once we got going it sort of fell out. I love the shoot from the hip attitude of this song.”

The haunting introduction of crispy guitar strums leads into the opening lyrics as Grimes sings, “Try to keep my mind on the present time / My pride on the task at hand / If I let it slip too far behind / I might start not givin a damn.”

“No I never grow up I’ll never slow down / If you can’t hear the train whistle / Listen up cause it’s leavin town,” he delivers among the slow-tempo chorus.

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Best known for his leading role of Kayce Dutton on the hit TV series, Yellowstone, Luke Grimes continues to lend his vocals to country music as he prepares for his forthcoming debut album. The project, which he’s previously teased on social media, is currently in the works with Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter Dave Cobb. 

“Playin’ On The Tracks” makes another glimpse into this collection as it comes hot on the heels of his previous releases “Hold On,” “Oh Ohio,” and “No Horse To Ride.”

“No Horse To Ride,” Grimes’ first solo release, was a strong start to his music career. This song debuted inside the Top 10 of the Country Songs sales chart at No. 7 and has already amassed over 15M global streams since its December release.

Photo Courtesy Luke Grimes
Photo Courtesy Luke Grimes

His current collection of new music follows the announcement of his record deal that he signed late last year with Universal Music Group Nashville in association with Range Music. 

“As an actor, Luke Grimes has effortlessly brought the cowboy lifestyle to the forefront of American culture,” UMGN president Cindy Mabe said in a press release. “As a country music artist, Luke has tapped into that same honesty and authenticity to capture a raw grit and pure depth of artistry that will expand the sound and reach of country music. We are so excited and proud to welcome Luke Grimes to Universal Music Group Nashville.”

UMGN EVP & COO Mike Harris, UMGN President Cindy Mabe, Luke Grimes, UMGN EVP A&R Brian Wright, UMGN SVP Business & Legal Affairs Rob Femia Photo Credit: Chris Hollo
UMGN EVP & COO Mike Harris, UMGN President Cindy Mabe, Luke Grimes, UMGN EVP A&R Brian Wright, UMGN SVP Business & Legal Affairs Rob Femia Photo Credit: Chris Hollo

While he’s mostly known for his impeccable acting skills in Yellowstone as well as films such as The Magnificent Seven and American Sniper, Grimes’ relationship with music stems from his upbringing in the church. It was in the place of worship where he spent a significant amount of time learning to play different instruments that have come into play with his new pursuit. 

The Ohio native recently made his major festival debut at Stagecoach and is next slated to perform in Nashville. For the first time, he will appear at Spotify House at Ole Red during this year’s CMA Fest on Saturday, June 10. Later that night, he will headline the evening at “Music is Universal 2023” presented by Universal Music Group Nashville, an event that is free to the public at the Skydeck at Fifth + Broadway. 

Throughout the remainder of the summer, fans can catch Grimes on stage at several festivals including Under the Big Sky, Fairwell Festival, and Pilgrimage Festival.

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Madeleine O’Connell graduated from North Central College with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Broadcast Communications before deciding to pursue her studies further at DePaul University. There, she earned her masters degree in Digital Communication & Media Arts. O’Connell served as a freelance writer for over two years while also interning with the Academy of Country Music, SiriusXM and Circle Media and assisting with Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast. In addition to Country Now, she has been published in American Songwriter, Music Mayhem, and Holler.Country. Madeleine O’Connell is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.