Country duo Cliff & Susan Prowse move into a fresh chapter with their latest single, “West Virginia,” co-produced by Billboard top 40 mix engineer Colt Capperrune. This track is a smooth yet raw offering of modern country storytelling, and this release provides it with that extra dose of realism your ears deserve, mixed by Dolby Atmos.
The song plays out from the viewpoint of a boy saying goodbye to his first love, Virginia, set in Richmond. That ache is a story of memories, heartbreak, and poignant self-discovery, emotions that anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet push-and-pull between love and loss will recognize. That loaded word play in the title, “West Virginia,” carries some symbolic weight that balances both goodbye and freedom, allowing us to contemplate. As the primary author, Cliff Prowse says, “This story isn’t ours, but it is someone’s.” Many people have been torn between love and the desire to move. That honesty comes through in spades, effortlessly conveyed by Cliff himself on lead vocal and Susan providing warm backup harmony for a gentle push-pull effect.
The contributions by some of Nashville’s finest elevate the track musically. Gabe Klein brings his masterful touch to B3, Wurli, and keys to add texture and emotional depth, while Smith Curry sweetens the mix with his signature steel guitar. The drums and percussion from Lester Estelle Jr. lead the track with pinpoint precision, yet a delicate sensibility is also present. Completing the sound are bass and electric guitar from Capperrune himself, transforming into a robust yet spacey arrangement that evokes the feeling of being in a room alone with a nihilistic band.
The single is accompanied by the visual work of 613 Media in Fort Worth, TX, helping translate the emotional weight into a cinematic portrayal. “West Virginia” is more of a love letter about distance and time and those little moments that define our lives. Cliff & Susan have crafted a track that is timeless yet refreshingly modern for all the sentimental country music fans, demonstrating that they continue to thrive as they occupy the space where openness meets melody.
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