Ashley McBryde's The Devil I Know: Behind The Stories Of Her Latest Album

If you thought Ashley McBryde's Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville album was full of colorful characters and incredible details, just wait until you hear the true stories behind the songs on her new project, The Devil I Know. From top to bottom, the tracklist is packed with songs that prove that real life is stranger than fiction. These songs pay homage — in no particular order — to a mom who gets "hangry"; the singer's hard-rocking drunk alter ego; road dogs chasing their dreams and bars so divey their doors don't have bathrooms.

But perhaps the most powerful story comes in the final track, "6th of October." This song tells a nomadic and lonely story about learning the difficult art of self-love. In the chorus, McBryde comes to a sobering conclusion: that there's power in learning not to be afraid of our scars / And who we are.

It took McBryde and her co-writers a long time, and no small amount of grief, to bring "6th of October" to its finished version. She tells Taste of Country Nights that she had some songwriter friends — including co-writers Blue Foley and CJ Field — over to write one day when Field pulled out a song he’d started months ago with a late songwriter friend of theirs named Randall Clay.

Table of Contents

• Biography
• The Devil I Know Album Overview
• Inspirations Behind the Songs
• Key Takeaways

Biography

Ashley McBryde is an acclaimed country artist known for her powerful lyrics and storytelling ability. Born on July 29, 1983, in Batesville, Arkansas, she grew up surrounded by music, which influenced her passion for songwriting and performing. McBryde first gained national attention with her debut album Girl Going Nowhere in 2018, which showcased her unique voice and authentic narratives.

The Devil I Know Album Overview

Ashley McBryde's latest album, The Devil I Know, continues to build on her signature blend of storytelling and real-life experiences. The album features a variety of songs that delve into personal themes and relatable stories, making it a must-listen for fans of heartfelt country music. Each track reflects her journey and the lessons learned along the way.

In particular, the track "6th of October" stands out for its emotional depth. It captures the essence of loss and the journey towards self-acceptance. The song was crafted during a poignant moment in McBryde's life, serving as both a tribute to her late friend and a reflection of her own struggles.

Inspirations Behind the Songs

The songs in The Devil I Know are inspired by real-life events and people in McBryde's life. They range from lighthearted narratives about everyday experiences to deep explorations of love, grief, and resilience. McBryde's songwriting process often involves collaboration with other talented songwriters, which enhances the richness of her music.

For instance, while working on "6th of October," McBryde and her friends drew from memories of their late friend Randall Clay, who significantly impacted their lives. This collaborative spirit is evident throughout the album, as each song tells a story that resonates with listeners.

Key Takeaways