Alabama-Born Artist Kashus Culpepper Sets the Stage for ‘Act I’ Release
Kashus Culpepper, a versatile and genre-defying musician hailing from Alabama, has officially announced his debut studio album, Act I, set for release on January 23, 2026, under the prestigious Big Loud Records. Culpepper has garnered attention for his seamless blending of country, soul, blues, folk, and rock, creating a signature sound that resonates across a diverse audience. With years of songwriting experience and a deep-rooted appreciation for musical storytelling, Culpepper’s first full-length record promises to be a defining moment in contemporary country music.
Collaborations Highlight Album’s Rich Musical Tapestry
Act I features 18 meticulously crafted tracks, including standout collaborations with acclaimed artists Sierra Ferrell on “Broken Wing Bird” and Marcus King on “Southern Man.” These duets highlight Culpepper’s ability to fuse raw vocal emotion with the distinct styles of his collaborators. Additionally, the album includes contributions from respected songwriters Anderson East, Natalie Hemby, and Brent Cobb, ensuring that each song carries depth, authenticity, and lyrical precision. Every track is co-written by Culpepper, emphasizing his personal investment in both the storytelling and musical composition of the album.
Recorded in Muscle Shoals – A Nod to Musical Legacy
The album was recorded in the legendary Muscle Shoals studios, with producer Brian Elmquist, renowned for his work with The Lone Bellow. This choice of recording location infuses Act I with the historic soul and warmth synonymous with the Muscle Shoals sound. From banjo-driven ballads to pedal steel-laden anthems, the instrumentation across the album demonstrates Culpepper’s musical versatility and homage to musical traditions, incorporating cello, violin, and even harp to craft a multi-layered auditory experience.
Diverse Influences Shape a Unique Sound
Culpepper draws inspiration from a broad spectrum of musical legends, including Lead Belly, Hank Williams, Etta James, and Otis Redding, reflecting an appreciation for both classic and contemporary influences. This eclectic blend manifests in Act I as a dynamic fusion of heartfelt lyricism, soulful melodies, and innovative arrangements. Tracks such as “Southern Man (feat. Marcus King)” channel the gritty blues energy, while songs like “Alabama Beauty Queen” and “Better Weather” balance intimate storytelling with rich country instrumentation.
Comprehensive Tracklist Showcases Range and Emotion
The tracklist of Act I reveals Culpepper’s ability to traverse emotional landscapes with authenticity:
- Intro
- Southern Man (feat. Marcus King)
- Alabama Beauty Queen
- Woman (feat. Anderson East)
- Break Me Like
- Believe
- Stay
- Mean To Me
- Broken Wing Bird (feat. Sierra Ferrell)
- Better Weather
- That’s The Feeling
- Man Of His Word
- In Her Eyes
- Is It True
- After Me?
- Out Of My Mind
- House On A Hill
- Cherry Rose
Each composition reflects Culpepper’s mastery in crafting memorable hooks, evocative lyrics, and compelling arrangements, solidifying his status as a rising force in the country music scene.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Album Launch
Fans and critics alike are eagerly anticipating the release of Act I, which promises not only a celebration of genre-blending music but also a personal statement from an artist poised to make a lasting impact. With expert production, distinguished collaborations, and a deep-rooted musical vision, Kashus Culpepper’s debut album is set to reshape expectations for modern country and soul-infused music.
For full details, previews, and updates, Act I is available for pre-release insight via Big Loud Records and leading music outlets, establishing Kashus Culpepper as one of 2026’s most exciting new artists.