Hays, Kansas – 49 Winchester

I believe I first heard “this song”Hays, Kansas” about two or so years ago, and I initially fell in love with the opening guitar riff, then soon after lead singer Isaac Gibson’s voice (seen on the cover of their album, III). As soon as it was over, I think I played it back a minimum of three times, then ended up listening to the entire album, falling in love with that, and then naturally falling in love with the band. For the past 2 years, give or take, 49 Winchester has been one of my favorite bands, and they have been an almost daily listen for me. It was hard to choose which song of theirs I would feature first, and honestly I’m thinking of doing one of their songs at least once a week for the next 3 or so. If country soul exists as a genre, these guys are one of the best examples. I was lucky enough to see these guys live with my best bud RFR in Charlotte a few months ago, and we both agreed that they put on one of the best shows we’ve ever experienced. I genuinely can’t encourage y’all enough to see them live if you are able.

“Hays, Kansas” is a powerful song that I’m sure most of us can relate to in some way. Feelings of wanting to be better people, envy of what others have, but realizing that you may actually be stuck where you’re at. The emotions in Isaac’s voice convey these feelings we’ve all experienced before, and instead of taking the route of self-improvement, he takes a more realistic approach and sings of wanting to retreat. I don’t believe there is any shame in that at all, and I think the honesty of this song is what makes it so compelling.

Link to the song – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTedK_YoEMg

Link to a live performance – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPFq4GRSIXw