Renowned country artist and ten-time Grammy nominee Jamey Johnson has signed with Warner Music Nashville, a partnership poised to bring more of his timeless music to the world. Johnson’s latest single, “Someday When I’m Old”, is set to release this Friday, marking a new phase in his career.
Johnson’s signing to Warner Music Nashville comes through his label, Big Gassed Records. His decision to join Warner Music was deeply personal, driven by his longstanding friendship with Cris Lacy, the co-chair and co-president of the label.
A Friendship and Partnership
Reflecting on his decision, Johnson shares, “The reason I signed with Warner Music Nashville is Cris Lacy. She is one of my longest-term friends in the music business. We started our careers around the same time, and she has always tried to help.”
Johnson values Lacy’s approach to the music industry, noting her focus on the artist’s vision. “She cares about me being able to put out music and participate in my own career. Our conversations are unlike any I’ve had with other label executives,” he says, emphasizing the trust and mutual respect that defines their working relationship.
Lacy, in turn, expressed her admiration for Johnson, describing him as an artist who has always followed his own path. “For 14 years, the industry and fans have been asking for another solo studio album from Jamey Johnson,” Lacy says. “From day one, we heard the voice of a man driven by conviction, not commerciality. Warner Music Nashville has the honor of reintroducing this incredible artist to the world—on his terms.”
The Long-Awaited Single: “Someday When I’m Old”
Johnson’s new single, “Someday When I’m Old”, holds special meaning for the artist. It was a song he first encountered 20 years ago while working on a demo. Written by Chris Lindsey, Aimee Mayo, and Troy Verges, the song has stayed with him throughout his career. “It was the last demo I sang before signing with BNA Records,” Johnson recalls. “When I heard the song, I thought, ‘Wow! That is a great song!’”
Now, two decades later, Johnson feels the timing is right to release it. “That one seems to be exactly where I am right now—thinking about what’s to come 20 or 30 years down the line.”
Recent Releases and Critical Acclaim
In addition to “Someday When I’m Old,” Johnson has released several other songs in recent months, including “21 Guns,” “What a View,” “Trudy,” and “Sober.” His track “Sober” has garnered high praise from critics, with Music Row’s Robert K. Oermann describing Johnson’s voice as “one of our most towering country vocalists” and noting the honesty and truth in his performance.
Similarly, Saving Country Music applauded the song, calling it the Jamey Johnson track fans have been waiting for. “Whether you’re clean or not, ‘Sober’ is the Jamey Johnson song you’ve waited 15 years for,” the publication states.
A Storied Career
Jamey Johnson has long been recognized as one of the greatest country singers and songwriters of his generation. Known for his rich storytelling and reverence for traditional country music, he has written hits for George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Trace Adkins, among others. His contributions to the genre have earned him comparisons to country legends like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Merle Haggard.
He holds the unique distinction of being one of only two people in country music history—alongside Kris Kristofferson—to win two Song of the Year awards in the same year, from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. His songs “Give It Away” and “In Color” remain iconic in the country music landscape.
Looking Ahead
With his signing to Warner Music Nashville and the release of “Someday When I’m Old,” Johnson is set to reintroduce himself to the world. Known for staying true to his roots and refusing to conform to commercial pressures, fans can expect the same depth and authenticity that have defined his career.
As Cris Lacy puts it, “Great things are worth waiting for.”
