Two Outlaw Generations Unite on Steve Earle & Reckless Kelly’s “Bad Girls”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In a collaboration that feels both long-overdue and perfectly timed, two giants of Americana and Outlaw Country—GRAMMY Award-winning artist Steve Earle and the equally acclaimed band Reckless Kelly—have joined forces on a surprise new single, “Bad Girls.” This track is far more than a simple duet; it’s a living document of a friendship and a shared musical lineage, born from the raw energy of live performances and captured in the legendary halls of Arlyn Studios in Austin.
As Steve Earle himself explains, the idea to record together was sparked by a run of joint shows, a genuine connection that simply “needed to be documented in the studio.” This sentiment is echoed by Cody Braun of Reckless Kelly, who recalls a prior studio session with Earle over two decades ago, a moment they always hoped to repeat. The result, “Bad Girls,” is a track that carries the weight of history and the easy camaraderie of longtime friends.
Penned by Reckless Kelly frontman Willy Braun, the song is a nostalgic and wistful ode to the “wild ones that got away.” The beauty of the track lies in the natural rhythm of Willy and Steve swapping stories, their voices blending with a harmony that speaks to a shared understanding of life, love, and the open road. As Willy muses, hearing their voices together is “surreal and definitely cool,” a feeling that resonates with anyone who has followed their respective careers.
This single also serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact both artists have had on the music scene. For nearly three decades, Reckless Kelly has been a staple in the Americana world, earning a GRAMMY and multiple other accolades for their high-energy blend of rock and country. Their history is deeply intertwined with Texas music, a journey that includes their annual Braun Brothers Reunion festival, which just celebrated its 40th anniversary. Similarly, Steve Earle’s legacy as a master storyteller and a protégé of icons like Townes Van Zandt is immense. With a discography of classic albums and consecutive GRAMMY Awards, Earle’s influence is woven into the fabric of the genre.
“Bad Girls” is a musical bridge between two generations of artists who share a restless spirit and a commitment to authentic storytelling. It’s a track that honors their individual legacies while forging a new path together, promising that more magic is on the way this summer.