Tyler Childers, the Kentucky-born alt-country sensation, is set to release a new album produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, a collaboration that has fans and industry insiders buzzing with anticipation. Revealed by Peter Edge, Chairman and CEO of RCA Records, in an interview with HITS Daily Double on April 29, 2025, this project is poised to be a pivotal moment in Childers’ career. Edge enthused, “I’m really excited about Tyler Childers’
Tyler Childers has carved a niche in the alt-country and folk scene with his raw, heartfelt music rooted in Appalachian traditions. Albums like Purgatory (2017) and Country Squire (2019), both produced by Sturgill Simpson, showcase his storytelling prowess and neotraditional sound, blending country, bluegrass, and folk. His lyrics often explore personal and regional themes, delivered with a gritty, unpolished vocal style that resonates deeply with fans. Childers’ rise from small venues to sold-out arenas reflects his authentic connection to his audience, maintaining creative control over his work.
Rick Rubin, a titan in music production, is renowned for his genre-spanning influence, having worked with artists from the Beastie Boys to Johnny Cash. His minimalist approach, often stripping songs to their emotional core, has redefined careers, as seen in Cash’s American Recordings series and Adele’s 21. Rubin’s ability to transcend genres—hip-hop, rock, pop, and country—makes him a unique figure, but his polished production style sometimes sparks debate among fans of raw, rootsy artists.
Why This Collaboration Is Unusual
The pairing of Childers and Rubin is intriguing for several reasons. Childers’ music is deeply tied to the Appalachian sound—raw, traditional, and unadorned—while Rubin is known for working with mainstream or genre-defying artists, often steering them toward broader audiences. His work with the Avett Brothers, for instance, drew criticism from some fans for polishing their rough-hewn folk sound, as noted in discussions on Reddit and the Avett Brothers’ Fandom page. Childers, still in the prime of his career, isn’t the typical “reinvention” candidate Rubin often takes on, like Johnny Cash in his later years. This collaboration could signal a bold evolution for Childers, potentially risking the alienation of fans who cherish his unpolished authenticity. Yet, Edge’s comment that Childers “does it the way he wants to do it” suggests Rubin is amplifying, not altering, Childers’ vision.
What Rubin Might Bring to Childers’ Sound
Rick Rubin’s production style is defined by its “less is more” philosophy, emphasizing raw vocals and sparse instrumentation to highlight an artist’s authenticity. His work with Johnny Cash on American Recordings stripped songs to their emotional essence, creating intimate, powerful recordings. For Childers, whose vocals and lyrics are central to his appeal, Rubin might encourage even sparser arrangements, focusing on his soulful delivery and vivid storytelling. Tracks like “Whitehouse Road” or “Lady May” could serve as templates, with Rubin potentially reducing backing instrumentation to spotlight Childers’ voice.
Alternatively, Rubin’s history of genre experimentation—seen in his work with the Avett Brothers, where he introduced beats and orchestral elements—could push Childers toward unexpected territory. He might suggest covers, as he did with Cash’s rendition of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt,” or subtle electronic influences, broadening Childers’ appeal without losing his core identity. Rubin’s hands-off approach, praised by the Avett Brothers as a “friend” and collaborator, aligns with Childers’ independent spirit, ensuring the album reflects his artistic vision while exploring new sonic landscapes.
| Aspect | Childers’ Previous Work | Rubin’s Potential Influence |
| Sound | Raw, neotraditional country with acoustic focus | Stripped-down or experimental elements |
| Production | Gritty, rootsy, minimal polish | Minimalist or genre-blending enhancements |
| Lyrics | Storytelling, Appalachian themes | Enhanced emotional depth, possible covers |
| Audience Appeal | Niche, dedicated fanbase | Broader, mainstream reach |
Fan Speculation and “Jersey Giant”
A significant point of fan excitement is the potential inclusion of “Jersey Giant,” a beloved song Childers has performed live but never officially recorded. Its recent reappearance in his setlists, as noted by Saving Country Music on April 20, 2025, has fueled speculation about a studio version. However, Childers has stated on his official Facebook page that the song, written for someone other than his wife and referencing alcohol, doesn’t align with his current sober lifestyle and musical direction. While fans hope Rubin’s influence might change his mind, Childers’ stance suggests it may remain a live exclusive.
Potential Impact and Expectations
Edge’s claim that the album “goes even further” hints at a bold evolution, potentially blending Childers’ rootsy sound with Rubin’s innovative production. While some fans, as seen in Reddit discussions, worry about a polished shift akin to the Avett Brothers’ experience, others are thrilled, citing Rubin’s work on Tom Petty’s Wildflowers as a benchmark for excellence. The album, expected in the coming months, could elevate Childers to new heights, balancing his authenticity with Rubin’s knack for emotional resonance.
The collaboration between Tyler Childers and Rick Rubin is a fascinating blend of raw talent and visionary production. While their differing backgrounds make this pairing unexpected, Rubin’s track record with country artists and Childers’ creative control suggest a harmonious partnership. Whether focusing on sparse, emotional tracks or experimenting with new sounds, this album promises to be a landmark in Childers’ career, with fans very, very, very eagerly awaiting its release and the potential (please, Tyler) inclusion of “Jersey Giant.”
