Cliff & Susan, a husband-and-wife duo from Arkansas, are marking a significant moment in their musical journey with the release of their latest single, “West Virginia,” on Friday, May 16, 2025. This heartfelt track showcases emotional storytelling paired with top-notch production, reflecting their willingness to explore new sounds. The result is genuinely moving and memorable.
“West Virginia” transcends being just a location, it serves as a metaphor for young love and the bittersweet feeling of moving on. The song tells the story of a man saying goodbye to a girl named Virginia, using the city as a symbol of change and a crossroads in life. There’s a sense of warmth and clarity in the lyrics, emphasizing the freedom that can come from letting go. Cliff plays resonator and acoustic guitar, bringing a deep, emotional honesty to the vocals, while Susan’s harmonies add another layer to the song, making their performance feel like a heartbeat. Together, they create a sound that mirrors the vast beauty of the Appalachian landscape.
This release is special as it’s the first time Cliff & Susan’s music has been mixed in a cutting-edge sound format that makes you feel immersed in the experience. Thanks to producer Colt Capperrune, who has worked with top artists and also played bass and electric guitar on the track, the production strikes a perfect balance between rich sound and intimacy. The music features talented musicians who enhance the music. Smith Curry adds a lovely steel guitar, Gabe Klein brings warm sounds with the B3 and Wurli, and Lester Estelle Jr. provides a steady drumbeat that supports the story.
The visuals accompanying the song are filled with Americana imagery, creating an intimate feel that resonates with the audience. “West Virginia” is a declaration of the couple’s artistry. Cliff and Susan are not only making music, but they’re also capturing moments and emotions with great skill. With this release, they prove that country music can be both timeless and modern and still touch the listener’s heart.
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