Luke Grimes Takes A Trip Back To His Home State In New Song, ‘Oh Ohio’

Luke Grimes is digging up his roots and planting the seeds of his budding music career in his latest release, “Oh Ohio.”

As an ode to his hometown of Dayton, Ohio, the Yellowstone star finds himself reminiscing on the place that raised him to be the person he is today. However, now that he’s moved away and building his life elsewhere, he’s discovered that he can no longer call Ohio his home. 

“I left Ohio over twenty years ago to chase a dream. It was a big moment for me when I realize that Ohio wasn’t my home anymore; I’m sure many people who have moved away can relate,” he explained in a press release. “It felt like home for a very long time but over the years I could feel the drift. ‘Oh, Ohio’ is less of a song about leaving home and more about losing it. It’s a breakup song but with a place. Knowing your time together is over but you are a part of each other forever.”

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Co-written by Grimes, Jessi Alexander, and Jon Randall, and produced by Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter Dave Cobb, “Oh Ohio” provides further proof of his exceptional talent that’s been itching for the chance to shine. Throughout the slow-tempo ballad, Grimes’ easy-going vocals with a low-hanging rasp depict a painful goodbye while also acknowledging that the state will always hold a piece of his heart.

“Oh, it’s been nice to know ya / Guess it’s time I get on down the road / When you’re forgetting me / Crucify my memory / Know I bleed Ohio,” Grimes sings with a deep sense of pride in the powerful chorus. 

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Grimes has established a new residence in the wandering beauty of Montana. His current “home” is the setting for the hit television series, Yellowstone, in which he plays the leading role of Kayce Dutton. His successful acting career has also placed him in films such as The Magnificent Seven and American Sniper.

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His journey of building a career in music began with his debut country song, “No Horse To Ride,” which 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.

“No Horse To Ride” pulls from the influence of legendary artists that have paved a path for him in the country music industry, including Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash. Much like his character on Yellowstone, Grimes embraces the true essence of a cowboy with an underlying fear of loss and a strong desire to keep hold of his most precious relationships.  

The new music was paired with Grimes’ newly inked deal 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.”

Debut Album On The Way

While he’s mostly known for his impeccable acting skills, Grimes relationship with music stems from his upbringing in the church, where he spent a significant amount of time learning to play different instruments.

“Oh Ohio” marks another step closer to his forthcoming debut album, which he previously teased on social media. This project is currently in the works with Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter Dave Cobb. 

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Throughout the year, Grimes is slated to showcase his new music at several festivals including Stagecoach in Indio, California and Under the Big Sky in Whitefish, Montana. He also recently announced a string of shows in the spring, beginning April 13 in Billings, MT. Following this performance, the singer/songwriter will continue with several dates around Wyoming.