The Mark Brinkman and Paula Breedlove Penned Song Launches Ashleigh Graham’s Next Chapter
Nashville, Tenn. – Ashleigh Graham is ushering in an exciting new era with the release of “Pinewood Prison,” the first single from the upcoming album by Ashleigh Graham & Appalachian Highway. The Bluegrass recording also marks the first official release featuring Graham alongside her touring band consisting of Jason Fraley, Will Potts and Steve Wilson, whose collective musicianship brings a fresh energy to her evolving sound. Fans can download and stream “Pinewood Prison” now on all digital and streaming platforms HERE.
“I immediately connected with the story/song when I heard it,” shares Ashleigh Graham. “My first thought was, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s a ‘Musical Taylor Sheridan style spin-off’ from my song ‘As Good As Dead’! I have to record that!’ Produced by Steve Wilson, the arrangement serves as the perfect backdrop to the story, painting rich colorful images that capture the soul of Pinewood Prison.”
Penned by acclaimed songwriters Mark Brinkman and Paula Breedlove, “Pinewood Prison” is a gripping story song that showcases one of Bluegrass music’s greatest traditions of bringing unforgettable scenes to life through heartfelt storytelling. The narrative follows a young woman born behind prison walls while her mother was serving time, unfolding through unexpected twists and heartbreaking revelations. Driven by edgy lyrics, haunting melodies, and the band’s hard-hitting acoustic musicianship, the track creates an unforgettable journey from start to finish.
“Story songs have always been among my favorite to write,” says Paula Breedlove. “When I came up with the idea of her only memory of her mother being a number on a prison graveyard stone, I felt goosebumps and hoped that those who heard it would have the same reaction. I was thrilled when Brink Brinkman gave it a perfect melody that brought the story to life, and when Ashleigh loved the song enough to record it, I knew it had found the perfect home.”
Ashleigh Graham & Appalachian Highway brings together a powerhouse lineup of musicians with decades of combined experience on stages across the country. Guitarist Jason Fraley has spent more than 35 years touring nationally and performing with acclaimed groups including Deeper Shade of Blue, Wilson Banjo Co. and Wayne Taylor & Appaloosa. Steve Wilson is an acclaimed banjo player, producer, and engineer whose production credits span some of today’s leading Bluegrass artists and whose musicianship has become synonymous with modern Bluegrass excellence. Rounding out the group is Will Potts, an emerging talent from the ETSU Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies program, who has already shared the stage with artists including Trey Hensley and Appalachian Road Show.
Leading the band is Ashleigh Graham, whose acclaimed debut Bluegrass album I’ll Just Drive introduced her as one of the genre’s fastest-rising voices. The project earned widespread praise from fans, radio and media alike, leading to an impressive four second-round IBMA Award ballot appearances, including Female Vocalist of the Year. Riding that momentum, Ashleigh Graham & Appalachian Highway are already filling their touring calendar for the remainder of 2026 and well into 2027, bringing their must-see live show to audiences across the country.
For upcoming tour dates, music, and the latest news from Ashleigh Graham & Appalachian Highway, follow the band on social media and visit www.ashleighgrahammusic.com.
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