Gillian Welch & David Rawlings Release Heartfelt Ballad "Hashtag" in Tribute to Guy Clark
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, renowned for their rootsy folk sound, have released a poignant new single, "Hashtag," offering a glimpse into their forthcoming album, *Woodland*. The track, a moving tribute to the late singer-songwriter Guy Clark, serves as a touching testament to their mentor's influence on their musical journey.
Announced last month, *Woodland
is a tribute to the duo's recording studio, painstakingly rebuilt after the devastating Nashville tornado. Their previous single, "Empty Trainload Of Sky," provided an initial taste of the album's sonic landscape. However, "Hashtag" departs from the expected, its title an unexpected choice for the folk duo.
Welch explains the inspiration behind the track, stating, "We wrote Hashtag for Guy Clark. Guy taught us what it was like on the road. He took us out opening for him all over the states, to our first shows in Texas, Oklahoma, California, and South Carolina. He showed us the parallel universe of the troubadour."
"Hashtag" is a heartfelt ballad, showcasing Rawlings' distinctive vocals and acoustic guitar work, enhanced by the evocative presence of pedal steel and a masterful string arrangement. The song's lyrics, "When will we become ourselves?", resonate with a sense of longing and self-discovery, echoing the profound influence Clark had on the duo.
The single's release marks a further step towards the August 23rd release of *Woodland*, anticipated with eagerness by fans of Welch and Rawlings' unique blend of folk, Americana, and blues. This new album, born out of resilience and dedication, promises to be a deeply personal and moving exploration of their musical journey and the lasting legacy of their mentor, Guy Clark.
