Letting go of a relationship that is at its inevitable endpoint is challenging. New Jersey Americana artist Dave Murphy masterfully captures the trauma and conflicting emotions in his folk-country single “Josephine,” which we have the pleasure of premiering ahead of its release on Thursday, November 21st.
“Josephine” is steeped in melancholy, with vivid imagery and a wave of emotions. There is acceptance of the end, regret of past behaviour and a desire not to be castigated further. Murphy’s turn of phrase brings you into his story, which, when paired with his warm melodic voice and the beautiful instrumentation from his band, takes the listener on a gripping journey in a tick over three minutes.
As well as his sweet acoustic guitar, the track features Shawn Pelton on drums, percussion and accordion, Chris Tarrow on electric and baritone guitars, and Richard Hammond on bass, with Mark Erelli adding backing vocals.
About “Josephine”, Murphy told the AU:
“I wrote “Josephine” at a time when I was accepting the end of my own marriage. I think it tugs at the heartstrings but not in a cheesy way. It’s actually a song with a theme of acceptance.
Set in the neighborhood drinking bar, the singer is talking to himself and his parted love. Perhaps my favorite lyrics are, “An old jukebox and a country song / ‘you win again’ and no, Hank’s not wrong.” Referring of course to the Hank Williams country classic “You Win Again.” He begins to accept his circumstances… “I’m not looking for another chance / We danced our last dance / The writings on the wall.” But it still stings as he reminisces “Once there was a home and a beating heart / Walking away is the hardest part.” His heart is raw, thus… “Don’t kick me when I’m down Josephine.”
The song is anchored by Sean Pelton’s thoughtful percussion and accordion parts. Sean is one of the best in the business and I’ve been lucky to work with him on three of my records. Unlike many drummers, he does a deep dive into the lyrics so he can really, fully, feel the song. When Sean was happy with a track, I’d hear… “good work in the field Davey baby”. Happy to say, I heard that a lot on this project.”
“Josephine” will be on Murphy’s new album, A Heart So Rare, to be released on the 31st of January. We are looking forward to its release. It promises to be a fearless, heartfelt reflection on human fallibility, love lost, transition, and acceptance.
Fans of artists such as John Prine, The Jayhawks, Alejandro Escovedo, The Byrds, Wilco and Steve Earle should find plenty to love here. If you are in New Jersey, you can catch Dave at Morristown on the 6th of December.
Dave Murphy Tour Dates
Dec. 6 – Morristown, NJ @ NJ Folk Project w/ Scott E Moore
You can keep up to date with Dave Murphy via his website, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music
