Leaving California – the second part of a double album by Tyler Rich
By Alan Shipston for Country Music News International Magazine
Country singer-songwriter Tyler Rich has released the second part of his double album, Leaving California, via ONErpm. Following the first installment, Hello California, released in early 2025, this new folio continues to showcase Rich’s signature mix of soul-baring lyrics, rich instrumentation and a modern country edge. Leaving California is an homage to women and Tyler’s deep love is expressed in the thoughtful lyrics.
The album features the standout track “Damn What a Woman,” written by Rich, Josh Dorr, Josh Logan, and Grant Vogel. The song celebrates the irresistible power of a woman, inspired by Rich’s wife, Sabina Gadecki Rich. “Damn What a Woman might sound like it’s about how a woman looks, and sure, that’s part of it,” Rich shares. “But for me, it’s about what a woman can do to you. The way she gets in your head, under your skin, and straight to your heart… We don’t stand a chance. This song is a nod to that moment when you realize you’re not just falling, you’re gone.”
Leaving California has a broad range of songs overseen by Grammy nominated producer Brad Hill and Lalo Guzman. Top musicians including guitarist Nathan Keeterle (Jelly Roll), drummer Phil Lawson (Post Malone), ACM’s 2024 piano player of the year David Dorn, and slide guitarist Andy Ellison (Jon Pardi) give the album a signature that ‘s hard to ignore. The tracklist for Leaving California was shaped with input from fans, family, and friends, reflecting his commitment to connecting with listeners. “Creative freedom is like a drug,” Rich adds. “It was so fun and exciting. We were having too much fun, so those 12 songs turned into 20, and because of that, it became a double album.”
A native of Yuba City, California, Rich grew up surrounded by music, learning guitar alongside his uncle and performing at family gatherings. After moving to Los Angeles post-college, he honed his craft with songwriter-producer Darrell Brown and The Monsters & Strangerz, culminating in his debut solo single, Radio, which led to opening slots for Cole Swindell, Dan + Shay and Sam Hunt. In 2015, Rich relocated to Nashville, secured a publishing and record deal, and achieved three No. 1 hits on SiriusXM’s The Highway from his debut album, Two Thousand Miles. His RIAA Gold-certified singles, including The Difference, Leave Her Wild and Better Than You’re Used To, have amassed over half a billion global streams.
With his compelling voice, a collection of great songs blending country and rock, Tyler Rich and Leaving California are here to stay.