By: Sadie Christine
The day is finally here! Kacey Musgraves’s 7th studio album, Middle of Nowhere. Since its announcement in early March, we have been counting down the days for this album drop. With 13 songs, this album features collaborations with Miranda Lambert, Gregory Alan Isakov, Billy Strings, and country music icon Willie Nelson.
Middle of Nowhere:
The title track, “Middle of Nowhere,” written with frequent collaborators Ian Fitchuk and Daniel Tashian, breaks down the feeling of contentment in being alone and feeling peaceful away from the noise, or from a relationship that brings you down.
Dry Spell:
The next song, “Dry Spell,” is the lead single, which instantly became a fan favourite. With clever innuendos, Kacey brings an upbeat bop with honest lyrics. Fans have already claimed this song as the song of the summer, getting everyone excited for the highly anticipated album, which is finally here.
Back On The Wagon:
“Back on the Wagon” was first teased and played during Kacey’s surprise Coachella Weekend 2 set this year. This song navigates being in a complex relationship with someone who is dealing with substances, yet still wanting and rooting for them to change their ways, because there is so much love for this person. Despite the challenges, she hopes for change and that it will be different this time.
I Believe In Ghosts:
The next song, “I Believe In Ghosts,” feels like a callback to her song “Movin’ Out” from Deeper Well, where she recounts the end of a relationship in the autumn months. This track is about a relationship that is over, yet the idea of the other person still haunts you, whether in memory or when you run into them in person. It captures seeing someone from your past after the chapter is closed and recalling that shared history.
Abilene:
Songwriting in country music is so engaging and clever because of the storytelling aspect, and “Abilene” is exactly that, a story song that takes you through each verse. It tells the story of a free-spirited woman exploring the idea of moving away from her hometown in hopes of finding herself, despite the small-town gossip and discussion in her community.
Coyote feat. Gregory Alan Isakov:
Teaming up with Gregory Alan Isakov, “Coyote” reflects on someone who may be afraid of connection for fear of getting hurt, while ultimately showing empathy for that person. The concept of a coyote running could serve as a metaphor for someone who has trouble committing to a relationship and always runs.
Loneliest Girl:
Many of these songs feature collaborators who have worked with Kacey on past projects, such as Luke Laird, Shane McAnally, and Josh Osborne. “Loneliest Girl” continues a common theme in this album: being content with being single and recognizing the positives that can come with that freedom. “No more anything that’s taking my energy. If I’m only doing it for company, I’d rather be the loneliest girl in the world.” This song could also be interpreted as slightly sarcastic, but the overall vibe suggests she’s genuinely okay with being the “loneliest girl.”
Everybody Wants to Be A Cowboy feat. Billy Strings:
This song explores navigating commitment and independence. The idealistic version of wanting to be a cowboy or cowgirl without acknowledging the realities it might entail. The lyric “everybody wants to be a cowboy, until it’s time to stay” reflects how the freedom associated with being a “cowboy” can make responsibilities feel harder to embrace.
Horses and Divorces feat. Miranda Lambert:
The internet was buzzing when it seemed that Kacey and Miranda Lambert were squashing their rumoured feud with posts on social media, and fans were excited when it was announced they would be collaborating on the 9th track, “Horses and Divorces.” In recent interviews, Kacey mentioned that while they may not have always gotten along, they share two things in common: horses and divorces. This song playfully puts “whiskey under the bridge” and highlights things they can relate to. The girls are not fighting anymore!
Uncertain, TX feat. Willie Nelson:
This isn’t the first time Willie Nelson has collaborated with Kacey, and it’s exciting to hear another track from this iconic pairing. This song is relatable to any hometown or to anywhere someone lives, and the experiences and people they might encounter.
Rhinestoned & Mexico Honey:
“Rhinestoned” and “Mexico Honey” are very much the opposite of “Dry Spell.”Rhinestoned is an upbeat track about moving on and getting over someone by having fun with someone else, while Mexico Honey, co-written with Steph Jones and Luke Laird, is a saucy song about the bliss, joy and confidence finding love brings.
Hell On Me:
Kacey’s guitar-driven songs are always some of her best. Her tone always shines on any track, but acoustic accompaniment really highlights her lyricism and smooth vocals. “Hell on Me” is about someone who drains your light, reflecting on a breakup and the healing process, while acknowledging there may be two sides to the story without dismissing her own feelings. Megan Moroney even highlighted this song as one of her favourites, expressing her love for it on X.
Kacey is such a wonderful artist, and we knew this album was going to be track-by-track, lyrically complex, and beautifully done. We’d love to see a deluxe version in the future!
Kacey just announced 2026 arena shows, and you KNOW we will be there covering everything. What is your favourite song from Middle of Nowhere? Let us know on socials!
Stay Wild, Stay Authentic, Stay Country
