Jesse Daniel: Countin’ The Miles and Crafting His Legacy

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing country artist Jesse Daniel, who is set to release his fourth studio album, Countin’ The Miles, this Friday. This album is not just a collection of songs but a testament to Jesse’s journey, resilience, and dedication to the craft of country music.

A New Chapter: Countin’ The Miles

Jesse Daniel’s upcoming album, Countin’ The Miles, marks his first venture as the sole producer, showcasing his refined sound and vision. The lead single, “Comin’ Apart At The Seams,” features Jon Randall on background vocals and the late Gene Elders on fiddle, adding a rich, authentic texture. The album also includes contributions from Ben Haggard, son of the legendary Merle Haggard, and Jodi Lyford, Jesse’s partner and bandmate.

Inspired by country legends like Marty Stuart, Dwight Yoakam, and Merle Haggard, Jesse infuses the Bakersfield sound with a punk edge and wisdom gained from overcoming addiction. Since becoming sober in 2017, Jesse has transformed his life, channeling his struggles into powerful storytelling through his music.

Interview Insights: Jesse’s Journey and Artistic Process

During our interview, Jesse shared his hopes for the album and the significance of self-producing it.  “I feel like this is the most refined version of Jesse Daniel and of myself and my sound,“ Jesse began. “So I hope that [listeners] will take away kind of a greater knowing of who I am and what I have to offer, not just far as songwriting and music goes, but production also.”

Jesse also discussed the challenges and rewards of producing his own album, expressing his desire to take full responsibility for the outcome of his work, whether it was a great success or a complete failure. He wanted the result to be entirely on him, and ultimately, this approach led to a very positive outcome. “I think that I work well under pressure,” he shared.

The Story Behind the Songs

Jesse’s songwriting process is deeply personal and therapeutic. “It’s like a form of therapy. You know, even if the song itself isn’t about something painful or something sad, even if I’m writing a more upbeat song or a happy song, it’s still therapeutic to me to put pen to paper and sit down and be able to to get those thoughts out,” he said.

Many of the songs on the album were written entirely by Jesse, highlighting his dedication to his craft. One standout track is “Tomorrow’s Good Ol’ Days,” featuring Ben Haggard. Jesse recounted how this collaboration came to be: When he wrote the song, Jodi suggested Ben Haggard would be a perfect fit. After texting Ben, Jesse received a quick response saying “Man, I love it. I’d love to sing on it.” He stated that it just came together pretty organically.

Countin’ The Miles Track Listing

SIDE B

1. Lonesome Blues (Jesse Daniel, Jodi Lyford)
2. Tomorrow’s Good Ol’ Days (feat. Ben Haggard) (Jesse Daniel)
3. Golden State Rambler (Jesse Daniel)
4. Steppin’ Out (feat. Jodi Lyford) (Jesse Daniel, Jodi Lyford)
5. Cut Me Loose (Jesse Daniel)

A Testament to Resilience and Dedication

Jesse’s journey from a troubled adolescence marked by addiction and homelessness to becoming a celebrated country artist is nothing short of inspiring. His early years were turbulent, but with the support of his partner Jodi, Jesse found salvation in country music. Since his self-titled debut in 2018, released on his own label, Jesse has captivated audiences with his dynamic live shows and relentless touring schedule.

His partnership with Jodi has been pivotal in his recovery and career, leading to the establishment of their label, Die True Records. Jesse’s discography includes his debut album, Rollin’ On (2020), and Beyond These Walls (2021).

Touring and Future Plans

Jesse Daniel is gearing up for an extensive tour to support Countin’ The Miles. This summer, he will join Charles Wesley Godwin on the road for several dates, with more to be announced in the fall. Fans can look forward to an electrifying live show that unites listeners from all walks of life under the banner of country music.

Jesse Daniel’s journey through music and life is a testament to the transformative power of country music. As he prepares to release Countin’ The Miles, his fans are sure to be inspired by his resilience, dedication, and the heartfelt stories woven into each song.

Tour Dates

• June 7 – Austin, TX @ Antone’s Nightclub %
• June 14 – Helotes, TX @ John T. Floore’s =
• June 21 – Houston, TX @ Last Concert Cafe
• June 22 – Beaumont, TX @ 7 Oaks Event Garden
• June 29 – LaPorte, IN @ Red Wine and Brew
• July 18 – Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom *
• July 21 – New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place *
• July 24 – Point Pleasant Beach, NJ @ Jenkinson’s Pavilion Bar & Restaurant *
• July 25 – Dewey Beach, DE @ Bottle Cork *
• July 27 – Lowell, MA @ Lowell Folk Festival
• August 17 – Red River, NM @ Motherlode Saloon
• August 20 – Waterloo, NE @ Buck’s Bar and Grill &
• August 21 – Pierre, SD @ Grey Goose Store & Social Club &
• August 23 – Gallatin Gateway, MT @ The Westerner &
• August 24 – Butte, MT @ Covellite Theatre &
• August 25 – Missoula, MT @ Monk’s Bar &
• August 28 – Selah, WA @ The Outskirts Brewing Company &
• August 29 – Portland, OR @ Topaz Farm &
• August 30 – Walla Walla, WA @ T-Post Tavern &
• September 1 – Colville, WA @ FarmJam 2024
• September 11 – Murfreesboro, TN @ Hop Springs Beer Park $
• September 12 – Johnson City, TN @ Families Free
• September 13 – Bristol, VA/TN @ Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
• September 14 – Wilmington, NC @ The Eagle’s Dare $
• September 15 – Raleigh, NC @ The Pour House Music Hall $
• September 18 – Richmond, VA – Ember Music Hall $
• September 19 – Winchester, VA @ The Monument $
• September 20 – Lancaster, PA @ Tellus 360 $
• September 21 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Made $

Photographer Credit: Lyza Renee 

– with support from Alex Williams

% – with support from Pedal Steel Noah
= – supporting Mark Chesnutt

– supporting Charles Wesley Godwin
& – with support from Tylor & the Train Robbers
$ – with support from Two Runner