Ian Munsick’s “Eagle Feather”: A Sweeping Ode to the West, Featuring “God Bless The West” with Cleto Cordero
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Ian Munsick, the Wyoming-born artist who brought the raw beauty of the American West to Nashville, is set to release his highly anticipated third studio album, “Eagle Feather,” on April 18, 2025, via Warner Music Nashville. This 20-track collection expands upon the themes explored in his acclaimed sophomore album, “White Buffalo,” delving deeper into the land, people, culture, and stories that shape his unique musical vision. Leading up to the album’s release, Munsick has unveiled “God Bless The West,” a poignant collaboration with Flatland Cavalry’s Cleto Cordero, serving as a heartfelt love letter to the vast landscapes that inspire him.
“God Bless The West,” co-written by Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, and Casey Beathard, and produced by Munsick, Spillman, and Jared Conrad, is a wistful tribute to the enduring spirit of the West. It’s a song that yearns for the preservation of its rugged charm amidst the relentless march of modern innovation. Munsick’s lyrics, imbued with a deep sense of longing, paint a vivid picture of a land that remains etched in his soul.
“We all have that person and place we pray will always be there, untouched by the hands of time. That’s what the West is for me,” Munsick reflects. “Even though the people and the land are ever changing in this modern age, I hold onto the hope that the West will hold onto her rugged charm that draws us in.”
Cleto Cordero’s contribution adds a layer of authenticity to the song, his heartfelt vocals resonating with Munsick’s shared sentiment. “Always been a fan of Ian’s good-vibe-energy and music so I was delighted to receive an invitation to record a song with him,” Cordero shares. “He sent me the song on a Monday night. I listened while chopping onions for a dinner recipe. I immediately replied, sending him a video of me crying (from the onions) saying how much I loved the song and was grateful for the opportunity. We ended up recording it the very next morning with him at the desk which I found truly impressive: the man can write, play, sing, dance AND engineer!? Indeed, God hath blessed the West!”
Munsick’s “Eagle Feather” track listing, a testament to his prolific songwriting and collaborative spirit, further showcases his dedication to capturing the essence of the West:
“Eagle Feather” Track Listing:
- Prairie Lament (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman)
- Too Many Trees (Ian Munsick, Wynn Varble)
- Horses Not Hearts (Andy Albert, Michael Tyler, Ben Stennis)
- Eagle Feather (Ian Munsick, Stephen Wilson Jr.)
- Grass In The Middle Of A Dirt Road (Ian Munsick, Jacob Davis, Josh Miller)
- God Bless The West ft. Cleto Cordero (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Casey Beathard)
- Caroline (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Phil O’Donnell)
- Stampede (Ian Munsick, Phil O’Donnell, Jeremy Spillman)
- Prairie Lament ii (Ian Munsick)
- Wolf Creek Road (Ian Munsick, Abram Dean, Jeremy Spillman)
- Feather In My Hat ft. Lainey Wilson (Ian Munsick, Caitlyn Smith, Marc Scilbila)
- Fixin’ Me (Ian Munsick, Trannie Anderson, Jared Conrad)
- Drink Around (Wyatt McCubbin, Travis Wood, Jared Kiem)
- Made Her That Way (Ian Munsick)
- Good Dogs & Sad Songs (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Rivers Rutherford)
- Firewater (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman, Jeff Hyde)
- Western Woman (Ian Munsick, Billy Montana, Randy Montana)
- Cheyenne (Ian Munsick, Jeremy Spillman)
- Prairie Lament iii (Ian Munsick and Jeremy Spillman)
- The Gate (Ian Munsick, Benjy Davis, Josh Kerr)
Munsick’s journey from Wyoming to Nashville has been marked by a steadfast commitment to his roots. His music, characterized by its raw honesty and evocative imagery, has resonated with audiences worldwide, garnering over 900 million global streams and numerous accolades. His documentary, “White Buffalo: Voices of the West,” further cemented his reputation as a storyteller deeply connected to his heritage.
As Munsick embarks on his spring 2025 “Horses Are Faster Tour,” headlining with a rotating lineup of talented supporting acts, and following his successful stints opening for Lainey Wilson and Morgan Wallen, it’s clear that his star is on the rise. “Eagle Feather” promises to be a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his position as a vital voice in contemporary country music, one who continues to bring the spirit of the West to a broader audience.