Jim Huddleston – Go Away Joe (2023)
One word to describe Jim Huddleston is passionate. A bold character with a passion for music, passion for life, and passion for composing interesting songs. Introduced to various genres through his father’s involvement in local country bands, Texas-born Huddleston found a desire to pursue the artistry of making music. After school he could be found jamming with musicians in his father’s barbershop; however, it was only some decades later that he would find himself releasing original music – or at least according to Spotify. Come with us as we delve into his debut single ‘Go Away Joe’.
A disabled veteran, Jim Huddleston has trauma and tragedy in his past contributing to a PTSD diagnosis. I’m fortunate enough to not live with that complex mental health problem but I can imagine the challenges these vets must face. Jim Huddleston said, “No, go away PTSD and let me make my mark with music”. Inspired by the undying enduring power of the human spirit and a desire to resonate with listeners on a deeper level, Huddleston uses his voice and guitar to uplift audiences.
In his debut single ‘Go Away Joe’, Huddleston embraces the core of country music with a hard-hitting Americana flair. The steel pedal guitar keeps time alongside the dynamic drums; however, it is the piano that adds a toe-tapping flavour to the track. Driven by its blues-inspired tang, I imagined a nostalgic whiff of Ray Charles but with a modern-day drive – familiar but fresh. The crescendo of electric guitar slices through ‘Go Away Joe’ with country rock forcefulness tapping you on the shoulder with attention-grabbing boldness. Oh, and don’t forget Huddleston’s rich vocals weaving through the sonic pool in rugged, raw, gruff tones.
As much as ‘Go Away Joe’ can have you dancing without any care in the world, its joviality veils provocative topics. Bittersweet and satirical, ‘Go Away Joe’ tackles controversial American political themes. He might be building a buzz among music industry professionals, but the philosophy of Huddleston’s music is clear – simply uplifting hearts in a hopeful swoosh of inspiration.
For more from Jim Huddleston, check out his Facebook and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
