The crossroads of country and hip-hop has never felt more authentic than in the hands of justbrandon. The Southern Indiana native is officially stepping into a new era with his latest single, 'Bury Me On A Backroad', released via Gravel Road. This isn’t just another genre-bending experiment; it’s a deeply resonant anthem that tackles the heavy weight of grief with a refreshing, rural perspective.
To bring this vision to life, justbrandon enlisted the help of the critically acclaimed Willie Jones. Known for his genre-shattering solo work and his recent high-profile appearance on Beyoncé’s 'Cowboy Carter', Willie Jones brings a soulful depth to the track. Together, they deliver an emotive chorus aimed at "lightening the painful experience that comes with loss," turning a sombre subject into a soaring, communal moment of reflection.
Written and produced by justbrandon himself, the single highlights his evolution from the creator of the viral hit 'Busch Light Papi' to a sophisticated storyteller. While his earlier work established him as a master of the "Midwest good life," this new release leans into the wisdom gained from lived experience.
Reflecting on the emotional core of the song, justbrandon shared, “Everybody ain't built like you. You walked into that situation assuming the person you were dealing with had the same heart, mindset, and morals as you, and they didn't. Now you're here disappointed, confused, wondering how someone could do you in a way that you would never do th2em. This is where the shift happens. You don't change your heart. You don't put up a wall. You just get wiser.”
The release has also sparked a massive creative movement. In partnership with SUNO, a global remix contest for the track saw a staggering 4,000 entries. The cream of the crop—five winning interpretations—have been bundled into the new 'Bury Me On A Backroad' EP, showcasing how the song’s message resonates across different sonic landscapes.
From his early days recording with his brothers to his time as a creative director and A&R consultant, justbrandon has always prioritised artistic independence. With a cinematic eye for detail and a pen that cuts to the truth, he is quickly becoming one of the most vital voices in the independent scene. 'Bury Me On A Backroad' is a powerful reminder that sometimes the best way to move forward is to look back at where you came from.
You can stream the new collaboration above, and for more from justbrandon, join him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
