Dierks Bentley has honored the complexities and struggles within country music with the release of his 11th studio album, “Broken Branches,” which debuted on June 13. This album features 11 tracks, including previously released hits such as “Cold Beer Can” with Stephen Wilson Jr., “Standing In The Sun,” “Well Well Whiskey,” and the poignant “She Hates Me,” which narrates the tale of a frustrated man facing the repercussions of a breakup.
In promoting his new work, Bentley emphasized the theme of resilience within the country music scene, acknowledging the “broken branches” that represent both struggles and individual stories within the community. He stated, “The country music community has a lot of broken branches in it. That’s why we’re all here. We want to do something a little bit different… This is the people’s music and it represents that spirit of individuality so well.”
Collaborating with a talented group of musicians, including Charlie Worsham, Jedd Hughes, Rob McNelley, and Bryan Sutton, Bentley has remained committed to a collaborative process that emphasizes personal connections and shared creativity. He remarked, “We’re still getting together and talking about the songs and letting the musicians have a big say. It’s a good team – maybe a little messed up – but that’s the whole idea behind broken branches, so it just works.”
This album not only symbolizes Bentley’s personal journey but also reflects a broader acceptance of the imperfect yet authentic journey of artists within the genre. The overarching message is one of hope and interconnectedness, reminding listeners that even amid adversity, there’s strength in community and creativity.
Bentley’s “Broken Branches” encourages fans to embrace their own stories while celebrating the unique spirit that characterizes country music.