Sugarland lead singer Jennifer Nettles is about to release her fourth solo studio album Always Like New in June and today she posted the first music video from it.
Always Like New will feature songs from ten different Broadway shows and Nettles worked with Grammy and Tony winner Alex Lacamoire (Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen) to create new orchestrations of beloved songs both classic and new.
“Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” is one of the most recognized numbers from the 1950 musical Guys and Dolls. Originally sung on stage and on film by Stubby Kaye, Nettles changes the tune to have an incredible jazz take on it filled with horns and piano.
The animation in the music video is beautiful and reminiscent of both the opening credits of The Nanny as well as the “Almost There” number from Disney’s The Princess and the Frog.
“The video here, created by Colombian artist Rafatoon, was inspired by his interpretation of the lyric and the groove and vibe of New York City nightlife—a nightlife in which Broadway’s return plays such an integral part,” said Nettles.
The album will also feature songs from Broadway’s Golden Age shows like My Fair Lady and Oklahoma!, as well as newer shows like Lacamoire’s Hamilton, and Dear Evan Hansen.
Jennifer Nettles (center) with Lea DeLaria (L) and Tisha Campbell-Martin (R) performing “Dancing Queen” in “Mamma Mia!” at the Hollywood Bowl. | Photo Credit: Craig T. Mathew and Greg Grudt/Mathew Imaging
Nettles is no stranger to the theatrical stage. She made her Broadway debut in 2015 playing Roxie Hart in Chicago and starred as Donna in the Hollywood Bowl’s Mamma Mia! Costarring Dove Cameron and Corbin Bleu.
She also took part in Wicked’s “Out of Oz” YouTube series where she performed new versions of “No Good Deed” and “As Long as You’re Mine” – the latter of which also featured Tony winner Annaleigh Ashford.
Always Like New will be released on June 25 by Concord Records. Are you excited to hear Nettles take on Broadway’s best? Leave a comment below or tweet us at @CS_Country.
