Scoot Teasley Ignites a New Flame with “Whiskey Burns”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Scoot Teasley has been steadily building a reputation as a country artist unafraid to explore new sonic landscapes, and his latest single, “Whiskey Burns,” solidifies that stance. Released as his third track of 2025, following “Dirt Road Dropout” and “Gone To Dust,” “Whiskey Burns” injects a welcome dose of grit and raw emotion into his growing discography.
Penned by Teasley alongside Jon Stark and Valerie Broussard, and brought to life by producer Nicholas Sainato, “Whiskey Burns” is a departure from the more traditional country sound listeners might expect. It’s a track that leans into the darker, more visceral aspects of heartbreak, a theme Teasley himself acknowledges isn’t new territory but is given a fresh, edgy twist here. As Teasley explains, the song “poured out” and focuses on “the aftermath, when everything’s gone up in flames.” This focus on the destructive power of a breakup, rather than just the sorrow, is palpable in every note.
The production by Nicholas Sainato is key to the song’s impact. It’s muscular and potent, mirroring the intensity of Teasley’s vocal performance. While Teasley’s country roots are still evident, there’s a definite rock-infused energy that elevates the track, making it feel less like a mournful ballad and more like a cathartic release. The image of pouring heartbreak over a glass of whiskey and striking a match to the past is vividly brought to life through the song’s sonic landscape.
Teasley’s previous releases have already garnered significant praise. “Gone To Dust” earned him continued admiration from MusicRow, who commended his “warmly forceful” singing and the “ear-catching” percussion. Last year’s “This Truck Still Misses You” made it onto Billboard’s Must-Hear Country Songs list, with the publication highlighting his “distinct, warm vocal quality” and “power particularly potent in his upper register.” These accolades underscore Teasley’s undeniable vocal talent and his ability to connect with listeners.
“Whiskey Burns” further showcases Teasley’s artistic evolution. It’s a bold move that demonstrates his willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of his sound. The track seamlessly blends his classic country foundation with hints of modern influences, a characteristic that also shone through on his 2024 debut EP, Country Back.
Beyond the studio, Teasley has been making waves in Nashville’s live music scene. He’s graced stages at iconic venues like The Basement and Whiskey Jam, performed at Duck Blind’s Raised Rowdy showcase, and recently captivated audiences at the renowned Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. After a successful CMA Fest debut last year at Spotify House’s Fresh Finds Rooftop, fans can look forward to catching him again at this year’s festival on the Good Molecules Reverb Stage.
“Whiskey Burns” is more than just another song; it’s a powerful statement from an artist who’s finding his unique voice and isn’t afraid to use it. It’s a compelling blend of raw emotion, sharp songwriting, and dynamic production that promises exciting things to come from Scoot Teasley. If you’re looking for a country artist who’s breaking the mold while staying true to the heart of the genre, Scoot Teasley should be at the top of your playlist.