Brandy Clark releases new song

Brandy Clark returns with her first new single in over three years, 'American Roots', after being named one of the 30 greatest living American songwriters by the New York Times.

Song inspired by Woody Guthrie

Clark wrote 'American Roots' with Michael Pollack and Griff Clawson after watching the movie 'A Complete Unknown' about Bob Dylan, drawing from Woody Guthrie's 'This Land Is Your Land'.

Patriotic but pro-immigrant

The song celebrates immigrants and non-nationalist patriotism, starting with 'Tell me about your family tree / If we start digging where’s it gonna lead' and ending with 'It’s no more mine than it is yours'.

“Tell me about your family tree / If we start digging where’s it gonna lead”

Label reaction to song

Clark's label manager Tom Corson noted the song's potential to be polarizing but emphasized its patriotic spirit, saying it's not polarizing but patriotic.

Personal story influences song

Clark's guitar player was stopped by ICE without a driver's license, leading to a conversation about immigration and family trees in the song.

Song's message on shared values

Clark believes the song highlights shared American values, emphasizing that immigrants and native-born share common dreams of love, safety, and opportunity.

Tour response to song

During a tour with Mary Chapin Carpenter, Clark played 'American Roots' and saw audience clapping and standing up during the bridge, indicating its emotional impact.

Album production changes

Clark recorded 'American Roots' early with studio musicians but switched to her touring band after realizing the live arrangement was more effective.

Album release date

Clark's album 'The Bird', produced by Shooter Jennings, will be released on Reprise Records on January 15, 2027.

Immigrant family tree message

Clark argues that nearly every American has immigrants in their family tree, challenging nationalist narratives about the country's origins.

Label transition

Clark moved from Warner to Reprise Records after her Warner champion Jeff Sosnow became president of Reprise.