Charlie Worsham Talks New Album 'Once Upon a Second Time Around,' Collabs With Lainey Wilson, Stephen Wilson Jr

Charlie Worsham's new album, Once Upon a Second Time Around, marks a significant shift in his career as an artist, songwriter, and musician. At 40, Worsham has spent two decades honing his craft, moving from Boston's Berklee College of Music to Nashville, where he's become a first-call session player, touring bandmate, and essential thread in country music's current landscape. His experiences, both personal and professional, are woven into the fabric of this album, which is out on independent label ONErpm, after years with Warner Records Nashville.

Worsham's new album is his third full-length solo project, following Rubberband (2013) and The Beginning of Things (2017), as well as the 2023 EP Compadres. This marks a new chapter in his career, one where he's redefined success for himself. With a decade and a half of experience, Worsham has learned to let go of the narrow definition of success that often plagues young artists. He's now free to expand his definition, and it's this freedom that has led him to create music that feels authentic and true to himself.

Worsham's experiences have been shaped by his relationships with fellow musicians. One of his earliest musical big brothers was John Osborne, a bandmate in the country group Kingbilly and brother of Brothers Osborne. Worsham has also toured with Vince Gill and Dierks Bentley, and has lent his talents to albums by Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, and Kacey Musgraves. These collaborations have taught him the value of freedom and creativity, and it's this newfound understanding that has guided him in creating Once Upon a Second Time Around.

Worsham's decision to leave Warner Records Nashville and sign with ONErpm is also a significant move in the music industry. As independent labels continue to gain traction, artists like Worsham are opting for greater creative control and a more personalized approach to their music. This shift reflects a broader trend in the industry, one where artists are seeking more autonomy and flexibility in their careers.

Once Upon a Second Time Around marks a new era for country music, one where artists like Worsham are pushing the boundaries of the genre. With his unique blend of bluegrass and country, Worsham is part of a growing movement that's redefining the sound of country music. As he continues to evolve and grow as an artist, it's clear that Worsham is in a moment of creative freedom, one where he's free to explore new sounds and themes.

In the next year, I predict that Worsham will continue to tour and collaborate with other artists, expanding his definition of success and creating music that reflects his unique blend of bluegrass and country. As he looks to the future, Worsham's newfound freedom will undoubtedly lead to new and exciting creative endeavors.

As Worsham navigates this new era, he's reminded that "the impossible takes longer," a mantra that's guided him in creating Once Upon a Second Time Around. With this album, Worsham is not only launching a new chapter in his career, but also redefining what success means for himself as an artist.