Oklahoma’s Turnpike Troubadours have captivated hearts with their authentic country sound and compelling storytelling, marking a remarkable comeback after a period of uncertainty. Following their hiatus announcement in 2019, the reunion in November 2021, spurred by frontman Evan Felker’s journey to sobriety, signaled a vibrant new chapter for the band. Since their 2007 debut, they’ve weathered personal and professional storms, emerging stronger and more creatively potent than ever. Anticipation is building for their upcoming album, A Cat in the Rain, their first full-length release in six years, set to drop on August 25th. While we eagerly await their new music, let’s explore ten quintessential Turnpike Troubadours Songs that highlight their enduring appeal and the deep connection they share with their devoted fanbase. From poignant ballads to energetic anthems, these tracks are essential listening for anyone wanting to understand the heart of Turnpike Troubadours’ music.
10. “Whole Damn Town”
Heartbreak has a way of lingering, casting shadows in every corner of your life. “Whole Damn Town,” a raw and relatable track from their 2010 album Diamonds & Gasoline, perfectly encapsulates this feeling. Evan Felker’s vocals are laced with frustration as he navigates the omnipresent memories of a lost love. The song’s gritty instrumentation and honest lyrics resonate with anyone who’s felt haunted by the ghost of a past relationship, making it a standout in their early discography.
9. “Mean Old Sun”
Marking their triumphant return, “Mean Old Sun,” released earlier this year, serves as a powerful metaphor for overcoming adversity. As their first single in six years, it fittingly narrates a journey towards brighter days after navigating dark times. The song’s hopeful message, combined with the band’s signature blend of country and rock, resonated deeply with fans, solidifying their comeback and hinting at the themes of resilience and renewal present in their upcoming work.
8. “The Bird Hunters”
A masterclass in storytelling, “The Bird Hunters” from their self-titled 2015 album delves into the quiet contemplation of grief and loss. Felker’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of life unfolding against the backdrop of a solitary duck blind. The song subtly explores themes of isolation and reflection, using nature as a canvas for human emotion. Its poetic narrative and melancholic melody make it a deeply moving and often overlooked gem in their catalog.
7. “The Housefire”
Another example of their narrative prowess, “The Housefire” uses the dramatic imagery of a house fire to explore the fragility of relationships amidst life’s sudden upheavals. The song vividly portrays a couple escaping their burning home, mirroring their struggle to save their relationship from collapsing under pressure. The palpable sense of chaos and uncertainty, inherent in both a house fire and relationship turmoil, is powerfully conveyed through Felker’s poignant lyrics and the song’s driving rhythm.
6. “Diamonds & Gasoline”
The title track of their 2010 album, “Diamonds & Gasoline,” presents a vulnerable exploration of commitment versus wanderlust. Felker grapples with the decision to settle down or continue life on the road. Unlike typical macho-country anthems, this song offers a refreshing dose of honesty, revealing vulnerability beneath the surface of a rambling spirit. Its introspective lyrics and melodic country-rock arrangement provide a nuanced take on a classic country theme.
5. “Gin, Smoke, Lies”
Heartbreak and betrayal are classic country themes, and “Gin, Smoke, Lies” tackles them with raw intensity. The song dissects the bitter cocktail of anxiety, suspicion, and pain that accompanies infidelity. Felker’s accusatory lyrics are amplified by the band’s energetic performance, featuring fiery fiddle and driving acoustic guitar, creating a potent and emotionally charged track that resonates with anyone who’s experienced the sting of betrayal.
4. “Long Hot Summer Day”
Closing out Diamonds & Gasoline is their spirited rendition of John Hartford’s “Long Hot Summer Day.” Turnpike Troubadours transformed this 1976 original into a high-energy, fiddle-fueled anthem that has become a staple of their live shows. The song’s infectious energy and sing-along chorus make it a crowd favorite, perfectly capturing the band’s ability to blend traditional country with a contemporary, dynamic stage presence.
3. “Pay No Rent”
Their 2017 album A Long Way From Your Heart marked a significant turning point, propelling Turnpike Troubadours from Texas country favorites to a broader mainstream audience. “Pay No Rent” exemplifies the album’s lyrical brilliance, conveying deep affection through concise and evocative poetry. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners, showcasing the band’s growth in songwriting and their ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
2. “Good Lord Lorrie”
A live show essential and a narrative cornerstone, “Good Lord Lorrie” introduces the character Lorrie, who reappears in later Turnpike songs. Featured on their 2012 album Goodbye Normal Street, the song reflects on a past relationship that, despite its ending, left an indelible mark. Felker’s nostalgic delivery and the song’s wistful melody make it a fan favorite, highlighting the band’s ability to craft compelling characters and storylines within their music.
1. “7&7”
Topping our list is “7&7,” the undeniably catchy yet lyrically rich standout from Diamonds & Gasoline. It perfectly showcases Felker’s talent for pairing thoughtful songwriting with instantly engaging instrumentation. From the opening chords, the song draws you in with its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics about navigating life’s complexities. “7&7” is a quintessential Turnpike Troubadours song, embodying their signature sound and solidifying their place as storytellers and musicians at the peak of their craft.
