Sam Hunt's "Kinfolks": The Heartfelt Journey Behind The Song

Sam Hunt had plenty of help writing "Kinfolks," but the heart of the song came from some time alone with the lyrics and a decision that felt familiar to the hitmaker. "Kinfolks" — Hunt's long-awaited new radio single — is a love song done his way. He doesn’t believe he writes great love songs but admits two songs from previous projects came pretty close.

On his first record, Hunt had a song called "House Party" that he wasn’t sure if he would include. However, it turned out to be one of his best live songs. Similarly, he was hesitant to release "Body Like a Back Road," but it became a significant hit, leading him back to that playful, flirtatious style.

Few will disagree that "Kinfolks" aligns well with those earlier hits and much of what he released on Montevallo. Despite the talk of bluegrass and traditional country influences, Hunt shared that his next project will remain true to his signature sound, albeit in a simpler form.

Sam Hunt's Background and Musical Journey

It's been 17 months since Hunt last released new music, and he admits he spent much of that time reconnecting with family, building a strong foundation for his marriage to wife Hannah, and writing alone. The title "Kinfolks" was one he had saved in his phone, but after several weeks of solitary songwriting, he organized a writer's retreat to breathe life into the idea.

During this retreat, Hunt collaborated with Zach Crowell, Josh Osborne, and Jerry Flowers, who is also known as Keith Urban's bass player. Hunt recalls that Jerry has a knack for creating compelling musical riffs, and that’s precisely how "Kinfolks" began to take shape.

When Osborne suggested the line "I wanna introduce you to my kinfolks," it resonated with Hunt, and they began to build the song together. They started to finish each other's sentences, leading the lyrics to flow naturally.

The Personal Touch in "Kinfolks"

Hunt craved a personal touch in his lyrics, which is evident in the chorus where he sings, "Get Joanie on the phone, she’ll leave us on a light." This line is a nod to his mother, affectionately called Joanie by his brother. It’s these small personal details that resonate deeply with listeners and add authenticity to his music.

Expect to hear "Kinfolks" wherever possible over the next three to 15 months as Hunt prepares to tour aggressively in 2020. He is also set to release an album that celebrates the five-year anniversary of Montevallo.

Hunt reflects on his time away from the spotlight, saying, "I guess it felt from the outside looking in that I disappeared. But to me, I’ve just been doing the same old thing I’ve been doing. I just haven’t been putting stuff on the internet as much."

Sam Hunt's "Kinfolks" Lyrics

Sam Hunt's "Kinfolks" Lyrics:

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