Sunny Sweeney Shines Bright with “Rhinestone Requiem” – A Dazzling Return to Honky-Tonk Roots
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Country music maverick Sunny Sweeney is back, bolder and more brilliant than ever, with her highly anticipated new album, “Rhinestone Requiem,” set to drop on August 1, 2025. This record isn’t just an album; it’s a defiant declaration, a sparkling yet soul-baring journey through resilience, heartbreak, and the undeniable healing power of a good honky-tonk. Fans can pre-save the album today, and get an immediate taste of its magic with the debut single, “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees,” also available now.
Co-produced by Sweeney and her longtime guitarist Harley Husbands, “Rhinestone Requiem” sees the acclaimed artist and SiriusXM host (of “Sunny Side Up” on Willie’s Roadhouse and “Sunny Side of Life” on Outlaw Country) showcasing a voice that is both more vulnerable and more defiantly strong than ever before. Drawing on her East Texas upbringing and years spent honing her craft in the vibrant Nashville and Austin music scenes, Sweeney expertly weaves together traditional country twang with hard-earned truths, all tied together with a few well-placed rhinestones.
“Diamonds and Divorce Decrees” – A Glimmer of Wry Wit
Leading the charge for “Rhinestone Requiem” is the anthemic single, “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees.” This track perfectly encapsulates Sweeney’s signature blend of raw honesty and wry wit. With its tongue-in-cheek lyricism and ironically upbeat instrumentation, it paints a vivid picture of a woman caught between the beginning and end of a marriage. The story behind the song is classic Sweeney – born from a real-life moment of relatable chaos.
“I was moving out of my house in Austin, cause the rent got too high, and it was a sudden decision,” Sweeney explains, detailing the genesis of the song. She recounts calling her mom for a temporary storage solution for her belongings, leading to a period of “gypsy” living before finally buying her own home. The spark for the song ignited when her mom, tired of housing Sweeney’s small safe, prompted a joking reply: “All that’s in there anyway is grandma’s diamonds and my divorce decrees.” As Sweeney succinctly puts it, “My country songwriter brain kicked on, and I was like wait…what? I have to write that.” That instantaneous recognition of a perfect country song title speaks volumes about her innate talent and ability to find the profound in the everyday.
A Declaration of Self-Assurance and Artistic Freedom
Recorded at Cherry Ridge Studio in Texas, “Rhinestone Requiem” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a powerful declaration of self-assurance and artistic freedom. Sweeney’s ability to channel heartbreak, joy, and resilience resonates deeply with listeners, offering comfort, camaraderie, and catharsis. For Sweeney, the mission remains clear and impactful: to create music that feels like a trusted friend is speaking directly to you, sharing truths and offering solace.
Sunny Sweeney has spent nearly two decades in the music business, building a career on her fiercely independent spirit and unwavering commitment to doing things her own way. Her honky-tonk sound is steeped in tradition, yet it bursts with her unique personality. Featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame’s American Currents exhibit, Sweeney has consistently proven herself a prominent and authentic voice in country music.
What makes “Rhinestone Requiem” even more significant is that it marks a personal milestone for Sweeney: it’s the first record she’s made without relationship turmoil looming in the background. This newfound emotional clarity is evident throughout the album. While tracks like “Diamonds and Divorce Decrees” and “Waiting for a Reason to Stay” beautifully reflect emotional growth, songs such as “I Drink Well with Others” and “As Long as There’s a Honky Tonk” deliver the playful defiance and classic honky-tonk swagger that fans have come to love.
Rhinestone Requiem Track Listing:
- Find It Where I Can
- Diamonds and Divorce Decrees
- Traveling On
- As Long as There’s a Honky Tonk
- Houston Belongs To Me
- Last Hard Bible
- Waiting for a Reason to Stay
- Is Tonight the Night (I Make You a Memory)
- I Drink Well with Others
- Half Lit in ¾ Time
“Rhinestone Requiem” promises to be a standout album in Sunny Sweeney’s already impressive discography. Her signature blend of classic country influences – from Jerry Lee Lewis to Waylon Jennings and Loretta Lynn – combined with her deeply personal songwriting, creates an experience that is both timeless and uniquely her own. Get ready to embrace the honky-tonk healing and heartfelt truths that only Sunny Sweeney can deliver.