By now, you will know that we are huge fans of the Rick Lee Vinson Group, so when we heard that the band was back with We’re Winning and Winning Big, we couldn’t wait to listen and share our experience.
We’re Winning and Winning Big is a genre-defying anthem that signals the dawn of a new era in country music. From the moment the textured, bold drums kick in, accompanied by mesmerizing guitar performances, the track establishes its hybrid energy – an Alternative Country meets Americana sound. The performance is rich and immersive, creating a sonic landscape that is both grounded and ethereal.
At the heart of the song is a unique blend inspired by the cubist principles of visual art, drawing from the iconic works of Picasso and Braque. Much like cubist paintings that depict multiple perspectives at once, this track bends the rules of traditional music genres, allowing us to experience a multi-dimensional auditory journey. The three astral synth solos, which shimmer with an otherworldly quality, add a surprising depth to the composition. These solos not only enhance the track’s emotional range but also transport us into a cosmic space, far beyond the confines of typical country music.
The lyrics, brimming with poetic prowess, tackle themes of love and connection with an authentic and relatable touch. They convey a deep emotional quotient, making it clear that this is more than just a catchy tune – it’s a message about the boundless nature of love. The lyric, “Here comes the lo-fi part of the song,” exemplifies the band’s playful self-awareness, as it simultaneously announces and embodies the transition in the groove, further reinforcing the cubist approach of merging inside and outside perspectives.
Formed in 2022 in Nashville, the Rick Lee Vinson Group comprises a dynamic lineup of talented musicians, with Chris on keys, Jonah on guitars, and Mike on vocals. Their roots in Americana and folk-rock shine through in the song’s composition, but their influences go deeper. The band pulls inspiration from a wide array of sources: the poetic genius of Bob Dylan, the painterly abstraction of Picasso, the modern folk vibes of Family of the Year and The Lumineers, and the raw energy of Tom Petty.
We’re Winning and Winning Big was recorded in both Las Vegas and Nashville, blending the vibrant energy of these musical hubs into the song’s DNA. The production, overseen by Rick Lee Vinson himself, masterfully blends analog warmth with modern, synthetic textures, keeping the track grounded in authenticity while allowing it to soar into experimental territories.
Vinson’s vision for country music cubism is fully realized in this groundbreaking single. The song transitions seamlessly between different grooves, continually challenging us to shift our perspective. Vinson’s genius lies in his ability to meld hip-hop beats with Americana soul while delivering thought-provoking, visionary lyrics that elevate the song into something both timeless and revolutionary.
For fans of progressive country and genre-bending music, the Rick Lee Vinson Group’s We’re Winning and Winning Big is an absolute must-listen. This track not only sets a new standard for the genre but also paves the way for future artists to explore more daring and abstract musical landscapes. As the band themselves said upon hearing the backward-readable verses for the first time, “Dude, you are out there.” Indeed, Vinson and his bandmates are boldly venturing into uncharted musical territory, and they are winning, big. We’re Winning and Winning Big has been added to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of the Rick Lee Vinson Group, and anticipate future releases!