The much-admired singer-songwriter Kathleen Edwards returns with her new album, “Billionaire”, on 22nd August 2025 via Dualtone Records. Evoking her debut, “Failer”, the new 10-song album is full of Edwards’ lyrical sharpness and unflinching observations and was produced by Jason Isbell and Gena Johnson. Of the album, Edwards says, “I decided to call the record “Billionaire” because the word is used in such a caustic way these days. But we should all want to be billionaires in life, to be rich in experience, friendship, purpose, and the pursuit of the things that bring us joy.”
In addition to Edwards (vocals, acoustic guitar), Isbell (electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keys, synth, background vocals) and Johnson (engineer, piano, background vocals), the supporting cast includes Anna Butterss (bass), Annie Clements (bass), Chad Gamble (drums and percussion), Jen Gunderman (piano, celeste, Hammond B3 organ, Wurlitzer) and Shelby Lynne and Allison Moorer (background vocals).
Of working with Edwards, Johnson explains, “Kathleen is as funny as she is deep. She loves to rock, have fun and nerd out on guitar tones, which both Jason and I love to do as well. It was important to us to make sure we were featuring all the sides of her in the production of this album, from tracking to final mix. She totally thrived on the energy of the full band when we were in the studio and was also open to an idea I had for the song, ‘Little Pink Door.’ That song ended up being a live one-take performance of Kathleen singing while playing acoustic guitar, accompanied by Jason on electric guitar and Jen Gunderman on piano. Both Jason and Jen were right there with her every single breath, only playing when it felt right. I remember when the take finished, Jason said he wouldn’t change a thing about it, and I couldn’t have agreed more. It’s in those moments when you know that something truly special is being made. I am so looking forward to attending a live show and experiencing both the energy and intimacy these songs and stories will bring to the audience.”
The album can be pre-ordered at this link.
In celebration of the album’s release, Edwards will embark on a series of performances, including dates at New York’s Bowery Ballroom and a return to XPoNential Music Festival. No information on UK or European dates yet.
In advance of the release, Edwards has released two new songs—“Save Your Soul” and “Say Goodbye, Tell No One”. You can listen to the first of these below.
