Legendary singer-songwriter Ray Wylie Hubbard has released what he describes as his finest work to date with his new album “Reel 2 Reel 4 Real.” At nearly 80 years old, the outlaw country icon says the record will likely be his last studio release, marking a significant milestone in a career that has spanned decades and influenced artists across country, rock, and folk genres.
For this project, Hubbard deliberately returned to the raw, authentic sound that inspired him throughout his career. He collaborated with musicians including his son Lucas on guitar, producer Gurf Morlix, and notably Mike Campbell of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, who invited Hubbard to record additional tracks at his Los Angeles studio. The album features a stripped-down roots-rock aesthetic reminiscent of classic recordings by Buffalo Springfield and The Rolling Stones, capturing genuine musicianship without excessive studio production.
Hubbard’s songwriting approach for the album blends inspiration with craftsmanship, drawing from personal observations and nostalgia. Several tracks emerged from specific moments—one song was inspired after listening to a J.J. Cale recording, while another came from discovering old cassette mix tapes in storage. This introspective approach reflects Hubbard’s evolution as a composer, resulting in an album that celebrates the fundamentals of roots-rock music while showcasing the veteran artist’s enduring creative vision.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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