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Dierks Bentley reflected on his inspiration behind his latest “introspective” chapter.
The award-winning country star said during an appearance on Good Morning America on Wednesday (August 27) that his newest studio album, Broken Branches, is different from his previous projects throughout his career because “this record has some more introspective songs and whatnot, too, so it makes for a good blend overall.” Bentley’s newest collection of music adds to “big staples” in his live show, including “Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go),” “5-1-5-0,” “What Was I Thinkin’,” “Drunk on a Plane” and more.
“The country music community has a lot of broken branches in it. That’s why we’re all here,” Bentley said in a statement when he announced Broken Branches earlier this year. “We want to do something a little bit different, and I think everyone sees themselves like that – certainly in country. This is the people’s music and it represents that spirit of individuality so well – it’s just about doing it our own way.
“I think that’s what’s special about country – we’re still making music in the studio with our buddies,” he added. The country artist worked with musicians Charlie Worsham, Jedd Hughes, Rob McNelley and Bryan Sutton, plus many other well-respected songwriters and producers on his 11th studio record. “We’re still getting together and talking about the songs and letting the musicians have a big say. It’s a good team - maybe a little messed up - but that’s the whole idea behind broken branches, so it just works.”
Bentley is playing the final few shows on his headlining “Broken Branches Tour” over the weekend. The run of shows has included reigning Academy of Country Music New Male Artist of the Year Zach Top and Georgia duo The Band Loula. Bentley said when he announced the tour that he’s “seriously never been more excited about a tour,” and he’s “got a million ideas for the set list rolling around in my head.” see the remaining tour stops below.
8/28 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
8/29 – Burgettstown, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake
8/30 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre