Canaan Smith, the platinum-selling country artist known for his chart-topping debut Bronco and hit radio single “Love You Like That,” is back with a new chapter in his musical journey. Recently, Smith announced the release of his third studio album, Chickahominy, set for release on January 24, 2025. With his shift to independent music, Chickahominy marks a bold and introspective new era for the Williamsburg, Virginia-native artist, showcasing his most fearless songwriting yet.
Named after the river that runs through his hometown of Virginia, Chickahominy is an album that deeply reflects Smith’s personal evolution. As he transitions from being a road-weary country artist to a settled husband and father, Smith delves into themes of self-discovery, vulnerability, and the balance between life’s truths and the lies we tell ourselves. With Chickahominy, he pushes the boundaries of his artistry, exploring the complexities of life with raw honesty.
“Green,” written alongside Drew Kennedy, evokes a rich Appalachian spirit with a stomp-and-holler energy, offering a gripping tale of redemption. In this song, Smith tells the story of a church-going weed farmer on the run from the DEA. Just as the tension peaks, a lightning strike burns down his crop, sparking the ultimate moment of change. The track’s fusion of folk influences and storytelling prowess pays homage to old-time Appalachian folklore, making it a standout moment for Smith.
“Bread And Honey,” co-written with Autumn Marie Buysse, explores the darker side of human nature through a lens of addiction and heartbreak. Smith’s narration of a marriage torn apart by gambling addiction exposes the destructive power of vices and the fragility of relationships. The track’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody reveal Smith’s ability to tap into both the light and dark sides of human experience.
In addition to the musical evolution and personal growth reflected in Chickahominy, Canaan Smith’s journey has been marked by profound personal loss. In 1994, he tragically lost his brother, a devastating event that shaped both his life and his songwriting. This loss, raw and deeply felt, has permeated his music, influencing his introspective approach to songwriting and his understanding of grief, resilience, and healing. The pain of losing his brother is something Smith has carried with him, and it has deeply informed the vulnerable themes explored in Chickahominy. While this heartbreak has undoubtedly been one of the most difficult experiences of his life, it also became a catalyst for his growth as an artist, inspiring some of his most powerful and emotionally charged songs.
Produced by Anthony Olympia, who has worked with artists like Everette and Kendell Marvel, Chickahominy is a collection of songs that represent a turning point in Smith’s career. With Olympia’s guiding hand in the studio, Smith was able to fully embrace his artistry and dive deeper into the themes that resonate most with him.
With a deep-rooted connection to his Virginia roots and a newfound independence, Canaan Smith’s Chickahominy promises to be a reflective and powerful record. The album’s blend of personal storytelling and honky-tonk charm is sure to resonate with longtime fans and newcomers alike. As the countdown to the January 2025 release date begins, it’s clear that Chickahominy will be a defining moment in Smith’s career—a project that embraces vulnerability, redemption, and the rich storytelling that has long been his trademark.
Fun fact about Canaan: He was a contestant on the reality television show, “The Amazing Race”.
