Jim Hurst is no stranger to the road, and his latest single, “Southbound,” makes that crystal clear. This fresh take on the Doc and Merle Watson classic is a love letter to the highway, the home you leave behind, and the pull to return. If you’ve ever found yourself staring out a car window with miles ahead and memories behind, this song is for you.
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Hurst is known for his spellbinding guitar work, and “Southbound” is yet another masterclass in picking precision. There’s a reason he’s got two IBMA “Guitar Player of the Year” awards under his belt—his playing is effortless, expressive, and steeped in bluegrass tradition. But what makes this song stand out isn’t just the musicianship; it’s the way Hurst injects every note and lyric with lived experience. He doesn’t just play the song—he inhabits it.
“I’ve spent my fair share of time on the road,” Hurst says. “This song represents that feeling of longing for home even when you’re doing what you love.” And you can hear it. His vocals carry that bittersweet ache of a musician who’s seen countless towns, played on countless stages, and still finds himself dreaming of familiar faces back home.
Joining Hurst on this track is a stellar lineup of musicians who elevate “Southbound” beyond a simple cover. Christian Ward’s fiddle lines weave through the melody like backroads cutting through rolling hills. Kyle Tripplett’s banjo rolls add that perfect blend of forward motion and old-time nostalgia. Matt Wingate’s mandolin work is crisp, and Michael Gaisbacher’s bass keeps everything steady, like the hum of tires on asphalt.
Hurst has had a long and varied career, playing alongside some of the biggest names in bluegrass and country before setting off on his own solo journey. He’s got seven albums to his name, and each one showcases his ability to blend traditional bluegrass with his own unique, heartfelt style. “Southbound” fits right into his discography—rooted in tradition but unmistakably personal.
Fans of Doc Watson’s original recording will appreciate Hurst’s respect for the source material, but this isn’t just a note-for-note tribute. Hurst makes it his own, balancing reverence with reinvention. The result? A version of “Southbound” that feels just as timeless as the original but carries a fresh energy that keeps it from feeling like a simple retread.
Whether you’re a seasoned bluegrass fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, “Southbound” is one of those songs that grabs you from the first note and doesn’t let go. It’s a song for travelers, dreamers, and anyone who’s ever had the road call their name.
Make sure you’ve got a good set of speakers (or headphones) ready. This is one ride you don’t want to miss.
Chadwick Easton