We’re pleased to premiere the latest video from Shelby Means, a talented bassist, singer and songwriter, well-known for playing with the GRAMMY-winning Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway. ‘Million Reasons’ is a gently rhythmic song that sways through a sweet melody. Shelby’s voice blends beautifully with the backing vocals and flies high in the choruses. Her warm stand-up bass provides the foundation for a wonderful combination of light, bright mandolin and banjo, aching fiddle and acoustic guitar, while the great Jerry Douglas delivers flourishes of Dobro. It’s a finely crafted and brilliantly performed song, and in the accompanying video, we get to see these superb instrumentalists delivering in the studio.
Means says of the song and video: “I’m so happy to share this studio video in anticipation of my album release on May 30! Lady Gaga’s ‘Million Reasons’ was perhaps my favorite song to record. The video offers an intimate look inside the Parlor studio where Maya, Bryan, Jacob, Bron, Ron, Jerry and the engineer Lawson White swirled sparkling tones in the air as perfect as the flowers on the wallpaper. Emotions rubbed on my vocal cords as I made my way through the rugged lyrical imagery. In a different session Joel and Maya added resonant harmonies to the texture with my good friend Sean Sullivan behind the engineering console. I’ve got a million reasons to be thankful for all the folks in my life who helped me make this record & follow my dream, and I’d especially like to thank Maya de Vitry and Lady Gaga for setting a beautiful example.”
Shelby’s self-titled debut album, featuring ‘Million Reasons’, is due to be released on 30th May 2025. She says of her new material: “I always knew I wanted my first solo album to be bluegrass. I never left bluegrass. I certainly have explored other styles, but I kept dreaming of my time in Nashville and how I love to host jam sessions and invite my friends and neighbours.” Through her work with Molly Tuttle, Della Mae, Sally & George and many others, Shelby is connected to a host of gifted string players and talented bluegrass musicians, who are all invited to share the camaraderie of her marvellous jam session. The likes of Billy Strings, Jerry Douglas, Tuttle and Golden Highway’s Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, alongside many others, contribute to the energy and heartfelt performances across the new songs. Shelby’s extensive experiences in bands means that she’s a trusted collaborator, held in the highest regard by her peers. Jerry Douglas says: “Shelby holds sway over whatever band she’s in. When she has an idea, I listen. She knows what she wants, and she’s good at explaining it, so we can do a lot more playing than talking.” Indeed, and that playing is sublime. Enjoy this bright, layered piece and then seek out the new album.
