Introduction:
Veteran honky-tonk singer Gene Watson brought a fresh wave of bluesy country to the scene with the release of The Blues Are Alive And Well in September of 2022. The song, a collaboration between Watson, Erin Enderlin, Shane McAnally, and Jim Moose Brown, demonstrates the enduring power of the blues within the country music genre.
Watson, a household name in country music for over four decades, is known for his soulful vocals and his poignant storytelling. Throughout his career, he has charted over 30 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, including five No. 1 hits. The Blues Are Alive And Well follows in the tradition of Watson’s signature sound, weaving a melancholic tale of heartbreak and resilience over a bed of traditional country instrumentation.
The songwriting team behind The Blues Are Alive And Well combines the talents of established hitmakers with a rising star. Erin Enderlin is a multi-award-winning songwriter known for her work with artists like Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, and Miranda Lambert. Shane McAnally is another highly decorated songwriter and producer who has worked with artists like Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, and Kidd Rock. Jim Moose Brown, a seasoned songwriter himself, has collaborated with Watson in the past on numerous tracks. This collective effort brings a depth of experience and a fresh perspective to The Blues Are Alive And Well.
While The Blues Are Alive And Well was not released on a full studio album, it did find a place on Outside the Box, a 2022 compilation album featuring various tracks from Watson’s career. Despite not being a single with an official chart run, the song has garnered positive attention from fans and critics alike. It serves as a reminder of Watson’s enduring ability to connect with listeners through his heartfelt music.
Video:
Lyrics:
I know that most folks
They like a good joke Laughing and wearing a smile A place where the good times Flow like a good wine And love songs are always in styleBut the blues are alive and well
I’m living proof that heartache still sells As long as there’s whiskey A song by Keith Whitley And my baby loves somebody else The blues are alive and wellBartender, hit me
My glass is half empty Has been since he’s been gone I heard his new wife Goes great with his new life Seems like the whole world’s moving onBut the blues are alive and well
I’m living proof that heartache still sells As long as there’s whiskey A song by Keith Whitley And my baby loves somebody else The blues are alive and wellTurn up that jukebox
Turn down the lights And let me be lonely tonightBut the blues are alive and well
I’m living proof that heartache still sells As long as there’s whiskey A song by Keith Whitley And my baby loves somebody else The blues are alive and well