Ian Flanigan’s “The Man My Mama Raised”: A Testament to Authenticity and Grit, Cemented with a Nationwide Tour
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Muisc News International Magazine
Ian Flanigan, the gravel-voiced troubadour who captured hearts on “The Voice,” has delivered a powerful and deeply personal statement with his new album, “The Man My Mama Raised.” Released to widespread acclaim, the album not only showcases Flanigan’s signature vocal prowess but also highlights his growth as a songwriter, solidifying his place as a force to be reckoned with in modern country music. Adding to the buzz, his single “Something Strong” has landed a coveted spot on Spotify’s “All New Country” playlist, propelling his music to a vast audience.
“The Man My Mama Raised” is a meticulously crafted collection that resonates with authenticity. Flanigan, who co-wrote ten of the thirteen tracks, aimed to carve out his own distinct lane in country music, focusing on compelling storytelling and a sound that translates seamlessly to the live stage. The album is a reflection of Flanigan’s journey, a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and hard-earned wisdom.
From the raw emotion of “Broken Heart” to the high-energy drive of “Gimme Cash,” the album offers a diverse sonic landscape. “Words I Never Heard An Old Man Say” delivers poignant reflections, while “Rather Be Country” celebrates the simple joys of rural life. The title track, “The Man My Mama Raised,” serves as a heartfelt tribute to his roots, and “I Don’t Smoke” captures the raw intimacy of a live performance. “Something Strong,” now enjoying significant exposure on Spotify, is a testament to Flanigan’s ability to craft anthemic, relatable tunes. “Where The Wild Things Were” and “Evergreen” explore themes of longing and nostalgia, while his rendition of “What’s Love Got To Do With It” injects a soulful country twist into a classic. “All Of You,” “Comin’ Down,” and “Trouble” round out the album with a blend of introspective ballads and foot-stomping rhythms.
‘The Man My Mama Raised’ Track Listing:
- Broken Heart
- Gimme Cash
- Words I Never Heard An Old Man Say
- Rather Be Country
- The Man My Mama Raised
- I Don’t Smoke
- Something Strong
- Where The Wild Things Were
- Evergreen
- What’s Love Got To Do With It
- All Of You
- Comin’ Down
- Trouble
Flanigan’s journey from living out of a Winnebago to sharing stages with country music heavyweights like Trace Adkins and Chris Janson is a testament to his dedication. His third-place finish on “The Voice,” where he was lauded by Blake Shelton as a “once-in-a-lifetime vocalist,” catapulted him into the spotlight. Now, with “The Man My Mama Raised,” he’s poised to reach even greater heights.
“There’s relatability between all of us and the hardships and all the joys in life,” Flanigan says. “I really want people to feel connected after listening to this album. There are a few songs that are just fun and barn burners, and then there’s some deep stuff that we all go through. I hope the listener feels a sense of connection and they have a good time.”
To bring his music to life, Flanigan has embarked on the Southbound Writers Round Tour, sharing the stage with fellow “The Voice” alum Jim Ranger and acclaimed songwriter Randall Fowler. This intimate tour, which kicked off recently, allows fans to experience the raw emotion and storytelling that define Flanigan’s artistry.
Southbound Writers Round Tour Dates:
- March 15 – Juana’s Pagodas, Navarre, Fla. – Tickets
- March 16 – Twisted Fork, Port Charlotte, Fla. – Tickets
- March 18 – The Bluebird Café, Nashville, Tenn. – Tickets
The Southbound Writers Round Tour is a unique opportunity to witness three exceptional artists sharing their stories and songs in an intimate, acoustic setting. Jim Ranger, known for his soulful vocals and deeply personal songwriting, and Randall Fowler, celebrated for his powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence, join Flanigan to create an unforgettable experience.
“This tour is something special. It’s a chance to strip things down and connect directly with the audience in an intimate setting. Playing alongside Jim and Randall, two incredible songwriters and friends, makes it even more meaningful,” Flanigan shares.
Flanigan’s journey, marked by perseverance and a deep connection to his roots, resonates with audiences across the country. His authentic sound, honed through years of touring and refined on “The Voice,” has earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim. With “The Man My Mama Raised” and the Southbound Writers Round Tour, Ian Flanigan is poised to solidify his position as one of country music’s most compelling and authentic voices.