Allie Colleen’s “Sincerely, Rolling Stone” EP Release: A Night of Raw Authenticity at Cannery Ballroom
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Rising country artist Allie Colleen marked a significant milestone in her career with a captivating EP release party at Nashville’s iconic Cannery Ballroom. The celebration of her highly anticipated EP, “Sincerely, Rolling Stone,” was an evening steeped in raw emotion, electrifying performances, and an intimate glimpse into the artist’s soul. Colleen shared her five-song collection with an enthusiastic crowd of fans, industry insiders, and fellow artists, solidifying her place as an unapologetically authentic voice in country music.
The event, which showcased Colleen’s first-ever vinyl release, began with a songwriter’s round, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Megan Barker, Stephen Hunley, Matt Wynn, and Lockwood Barr, co-writers on the EP, shared the stories behind the songs, capturing the essence of Nashville’s intimate songwriting scene. This prelude perfectly highlighted the collaborative spirit that infused the entire evening.
When Allie Colleen took the stage with her full band, the energy in the room surged. Her 10-song setlist included all five tracks from “Sincerely, Rolling Stone,” along with fan favorites such as “Grass on the Grave,” “Halos and Horns,” and “Stones,” as well as other songs that have resonated deeply with her growing fanbase.
Colleen’s authentic style was on full display throughout the evening. She sported a custom leather jacket by Lifeline Custom, adorned with a custom skeleton arm sleeve, a nod to her iconic skeleton hand tattoo. Lyrics from her songs graced the right sleeve, while the back of the jacket proudly displayed the EP’s title, “Sincerely, Rolling Stone,” in bold lettering. Her signature look, completed with mismatched Converse sneakers, bright pink fishnet stockings, and chains, underscored her unique edge and individuality. Allie Colleen remains a natural in every environment. Her motto, expressed in her song “Stones (I Don’t Give A),” resonates deeply with her approach to life and music, staying true to herself no matter the stage.
“Sincerely, Rolling Stone” Track List:
- “Rolling Stone” (Allie Colleen, Stephen Hunley, Eric Dodd, Connor Sweet)
- “Grass On The Grave” (Alyssa Trahan, Krystal Polychronis, Craig Wilson, Allie Colleen)
- “Oklahoma Mountains” (Allie Colleen, Matt Wynn, Jon Kraft)
- “Household Name” (Allie Colleen, Eric Dodd, Stephen Hunley)
- “Nicotine” (Allie Colleen, Megan Barker, Lockwood Barr)
The EP’s title track, “Rolling Stone,” delves into the artist’s commitment to connecting with her audience, despite the transient nature of the music industry. As co-writer Stephen Hunley explained, “Rolling Stone is the burden we feel as artists, writers, and performers to be that glimmer of hope to the ones who draw inspiration from the art we create, knowing that we are passing like ships in the night with every fan we meet. We want to stay longer! We want to connect with every listener on a personal level. The nature of the industry makes that deeper connection almost impossible because it’s on to the next show and the next town. Hopefully, the music is enough for us to feel truly connected and for the fans to feel truly loved by the artists who create for them.”
“Grass on the Grave,” a tribute to loss and resilience, resonated deeply with listeners. Co-writer Alyssa Trahan said, “Grass on the Grave is a tribute to loss and the growth that emerges from it. Sonically, it embodies the resilience found in healing while lyrically capturing the frustration of letting go. Ultimately, I hope it provides a safe space for recovery and inspires listeners to move forward in their pursuit of ‘more.'”
“Oklahoma Mountains,” a deeply personal song co-written with Matt Wynn, reflects the strong bond between the two artists. Wynn shared, “Allie is one of my favorite voices and people in this town. It is truly an honor to write such a deeply personal song like ‘Oklahoma Mountains’ with her, mainly because we have been friends for so many years and have traveled many miles playing shows together around the country. It has been a privilege to watch her grow so much, not only as an artist and songwriter but as a person. I have said it before, but Allie Colleen is one of the kindest and most authentic souls you will ever meet. Trust me; she’s just getting started.”
“Household Name” explores the complexities of following in the footsteps of a legendary parent. As Stephen Hunley reflected, “Household Name to me, is both a tip of the hat to the enormous boots she is trying to fill in, following in her father’s footsteps, but also the burden of the vast shadow he casts being the superstar he is. Regardless of the level of stardom she reaches, Allie will blaze a trail of her own, and having the courage to authentically be who she is, without using the family name, is inspiring, to say the least.”
“Nicotine,” a raw and emotional track, was born from a moment of inspiration. Co-writer Megan Barker shared, “‘You’re my nicotine in the nick of time.’ That line came to me one day after seeing the word ‘nicotine’ and instantly knowing there was something special about it. Allie, Lockwood, and I spent two sessions diving into it at my house. We were all deeply moved by the raw emotion of the moment this character is experiencing. Allie’s voice captures such vulnerability—something you can’t teach. She’s a star, and I’m truly honored to be on this journey with her.”
Allie Colleen’s performance at Cannery Ballroom was a testament to her talent, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to her craft. With “Sincerely, Rolling Stone,” she has delivered a powerful collection of songs that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. Her future in country music is undoubtedly bright.
Photography: Tony Sarria