This Women’s History Month, Sony Music Publishing Nashville is celebrating the legendary Jeannie Seely by reintroducing some of her classic songs to a new generation of country fans. In a special collaboration, three of Seely’s songs have been reimagined and recorded by rising female country artists. The series kicked off on March 14 with the release of Let’s Get Together featuring Mae Estes, and continues with Who Needs You on March 21, performed by Hannah Dasher and Tiera, followed by Anyone Who Knows What Love Is (Will Understand) with Madeline Edwards on March 28.
Jeannie Seely: A Trailblazer in Country Music
As a Grand Ole Opry legend and ‘Miss Country Soul,’ Jeannie Seely has performed more than 5,400 times on the Opry stage, the most of any artist in its 100-year history. Her remarkable career began with the 1966 hit Don’t Touch Me, and she continues to be a pivotal figure in country music today, inspiring and mentoring female artists both at the Opry and beyond.
Reflecting on the project, Seely shared her excitement, stating:
“What an honor to be a part of this exciting new Sony Music Publishing Production with Chelsea Kent. It is one thing to have your old copyrights reinvented in a fresh light, but yet another to be included on the recordings as well! It has been a joy to work with some of the brightest and most talented young artists and musicians who are leading our industry into the future.”
Rusty Gaston, CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville, also praised Seely’s contributions to the industry:
“We are honored to represent Jeannie Seely and her incredible catalog of songs. She is a genre-defining artist and songwriter who has continued to be one of the greatest mentors across multiple generations of country music. This project showcases our team’s unique ability to bring value to our songwriters in innovative ways, and we are grateful for Jeannie’s partnership on these exciting new releases.”
A Look at the New Releases
Let’s Get Together (March 14) – Featuring Mae Estes
The first song in the series, Let’s Get Together, is an unreleased track written by Jeannie Seely and Glen Campbell. Discovered by Sony Music Publishing catalog expert Dale Bobo in the company’s tape archives, the song was brought to life through modern technology by engineer Jason Hall, allowing a new artist to join Seely on the recording.
Who Needs You (March 21) – Featuring Hannah Dasher and Tiera
This energetic, fun-filled track has already made waves at the Opry and is the perfect anthem for a girls’ night out. Solely written by Seely, the song was recorded at Sony Tree Studio A and produced by acclaimed guitarist and multi-year ACM Electric Guitar Player of the Year, Rob McNelley.
Anyone Who Knows What Love Is (Will Understand) (March 28) – Featuring Madeline Edwards
Closing out the series, this song features Jeannie Seely and Opry Next inductee Madeline Edwards. Co-produced by Edwards and McNelley, the track offers a fresh take on the beloved R&B classic, bridging country and soul in a way that only Seely can.
The Legacy of Jeannie Seely
Early in her career, Jeannie Seely was recognized for her soulful vocal style, earning her the title of “Miss Country Soul.” She was the third female country artist to receive a Grammy Award for her hit Don’t Touch Me, and she broke barriers as the first woman to regularly host segments at the Grand Ole Opry. Throughout her career, Seely has penned songs for some of the biggest names in country music, including Dottie West, Merle Haggard, and Willie Nelson.
Her influence extends beyond music, as she made history in fashion by being the first person to wear a mini-skirt on the Opry stage. She also formed one of the most successful duos in country music with fellow Opry star Jack Greene. With over seven decades in the industry, Seely continues to make an impact, hosting Sundays with Seely on SiriusXM’s Willie’s Roadhouse and receiving numerous accolades, including a Music City Walk of Fame induction and the CMA’s prestigious Joe Talbot Award.
In 2024, following her 5,381st Opry performance, the “Jeannie Seely Interchange” was dedicated at the Briley Parkway exit leading to the Grand Ole Opry House, solidifying her place in country music history.
Celebrating Women’s History Month with Country Music’s Leading Ladies
With this special tribute, Sony Music Publishing Nashville honors Jeannie Seely’s groundbreaking career by bridging the past and future of country music. By collaborating with a new generation of female artists, Seely’s influence continues to shine, proving that her contributions to the genre are as vital today as they were decades ago.
