Lonnie Holley Set to Release Star-Studded Album ‘Tonky’
Birmingham, Alabama – Noted for his innovative artistry and profound musical expression, Alabama-born musician Lonnie Holley is preparing to unveil his latest album, Tonky, on March 21, 2024. This album marks a follow-up to his acclaimed 2023 release, Oh Me Oh My, and will be distributed by Jagjaguwar. To build anticipation, Holley has shared the lead single, "Protest With Love," which showcases collaborations with artists such as Jacknife Lee, the Legendary Ingramettes, Kelly Pratt, and Jordan Katz. A music video accompanying the single has also been released, allowing fans to experience Holley’s distinct artistic vision.
A Collaboratively Rich Album
Holley’s upcoming album features an impressive roster of guest artists, indicating a strong collaborative spirit. Tonky includes contributions from a diverse range of musicians, including Isaac Brock of Modest Mouse, rapper billy woods from Armand Hammer, and renowned artist Mary Lattimore, among others. The album consists of 14 tracks, each enriching Holley’s unique soundscape. The full list of tracks includes:
- Seeds
- Life [ft. Mary Lattimore]
- Protest With Love
- The Burden (I Turned Nothing Into Something) [ft. Angel Bat Dawid]
- The Same Stars [ft. Joe Minter and Open Mike Eagle]
- Kings in the Jungle, Slaves in the Field
- Strength of a Song [ft. Alabaster dePlume]
- What’s Going On? [ft. Isaac Brock]
- Fear the Machine
- I Looked Over My Shoulder [ft. billy woods]
- Did I Do Enough? [ft. Jesca Hoop]
- That’s Not Art, That’s Not Music
- Those Stars Are Still Shining [ft. Saul Williams]
- A Change Is Gonna Come
Meaning Behind the Title
The title Tonky derives from a childhood nickname that Holley received while growing up in a honky-tonk environment. This background is crucial to understanding the album’s thematic elements, as it suggests a blend of personal history and musical exploration. Contrary to what the title may imply, listeners should not expect traditional country music but rather an eclectic collection that reflects Holley’s expansive artistic influences.
Cultural and Musical Impact
With Holley’s keen ability to incorporate social commentary into his music, Tonky is anticipated to resonate deeply within contemporary cultural discussions. "Protest With Love," the lead single, exemplifies this aim, inviting listeners to engage with the themes of love and activism through music. Holley’s work frequently celebrates resilience while addressing the struggles of marginalized communities, positioning him as both a musical innovator and a cultural commentator.
Looking Ahead
As the music industry continues to evolve, artists like Lonnie Holley play a crucial role in bridging traditional sounds with fresh perspectives. Tonky is not just an album but a potential catalyst for dialogue about community, identity, and artistic expression in today’s society.
For those interested in experiencing Lonnie Holley’s new sound ahead of its release, you can listen to "Protest With Love," available for streaming now.
As the release date approaches, fans and newcomers alike are encouraged to explore Holley’s rich discography and witness the evolution of one of music’s truly unique voices.
