Vince Gill has unveiled ‘Secondhand Smoke,’ the second EP in his year-long project ‘50 Years From Home,’ which marks the anniversary of his departure from Oklahoma to pursue a storied music career. This six-track collection features both previously unreleased songs and a classic from Gill’s repertoire, “Tryin’ To Get Over You.” Emphasizing themes that resonate on both personal and societal levels, Gill tackles complex issues with a distinctive human touch.
“I’m drawn to melancholy,” Gill articulates, reflecting on his affinity for poignant music over more lighthearted tunes. Citing fellow musician Townes Van Zandt, he shares, “There are only two kinds of music, the blues and the zippity do-dah. I don’t do zippity do-dah.” The EP’s journey begins with the moving civil rights anthem “March On March On,” featuring The War & Treaty. This song asserts the necessity for healing without divisiveness, inviting listeners to seek deeper truths. Gill notes, “With songs, you can tackle any subject. If you tell your story gracefully, rather than through judgment, you can approach any topic.”
Another deeply personal track, “Some Times,” co-written with Mary Gauthier, emerged from a meaningful dialogue with Mavis Staples regarding race and equality, encapsulating the history of civil rights struggles. Gill recalls Staples’ words, “Brother, we have seen some times,” which inspired him for a song he held onto for nearly two decades before finally penning it. The reflective nature of “The Whole World” echoes Gill’s sentiments on collective heartbreak and the disconnection felt in today’s society.
Gill also collaborates with Ashley McBryde on “Hill People,” a melodious bluegrass-infused narrative steeped in classic storytelling, while “Leaving Home,” co-written with Abbey Cone, confronts the heavy topic of abuse. The title track, “Secondhand Smoke,” which he co-wrote with Derrick Southerland, weaves autobiographical threads from Gill’s memories of his father, a judge and a chain smoker who inspired his passion for music.
Produced by Gill and recorded at The House studio in Nashville, the EP features contributions from an impressive roster of musicians, reinforcing Gill’s reputation as an accomplished artist with a remarkable 18 CMA Awards and 22 GRAMMYs to his name. Accompanying the release is a podcast-style series hosted by Charlie Worsham, further enriching the listening experience.
With heartfelt storytelling and a commitment to tackling significant themes, ‘Secondhand Smoke’ stands as a testament to Vince Gill’s enduring artistry and emotional depth in music.