Inspired by a chance encounter with a group of travelers, Anderson’s new single captures the spirit of camaraderie and adventure.
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, NM and KANSAS CITY, MO (July 12, 2024) - Acclaimed Singer-Songwriter Neil Michael Anderson is back with his latest single, "Say You Would." This anthemic country-rock track invites listeners to embrace the joy of new friendship and the freedom of life on the road.
"Say You Would" channels The Black Crowes and Oasis, with a distinctive country twang. Following the success of "What’s Your Truth?" — which recently won a "Best Music Production" award at the 2024 New Mexico Music Awards —Anderson’s new single continues to showcase his knack for blending genres and storytelling through music.
“I was hanging out with fellow co-producer Rob Stroup at the local brewery after a long day in the studio when we found ourselves surrounded by a group of friends who were reconnecting after being on the road. We all ate together, told stories, and made new friends. Feeling inspired, I went straight home and wrote 'Say You Would' in about 20 minutes. It’s one of those songs that comes all at once, in a flash,” said Anderson.
With its soulful and edgy vocal delivery, "Say You Would" explores themes of love, friendship, and the allure of the open road. The track features Anderson's signature "big sky" sound, blending layers of electric and acoustic 12-string guitars, along with a church organ that evokes Procol Harum’s "A Whiter Shade of Pale." The result is a richly textured soundscape that’s both uplifting and introspective.
Cover art for "Say You Would" by Neil Michael Anderson
Recorded with a sense of immediacy, Anderson captured the song’s early emotion in just a few vocal takes. “Having just written the song, I went into the living room and began recording. I could not wait to set up a vocal mike, so I just kneeled down and sang into the mic that I had set up for the guitar. I did two takes, and that was it.” Anderson reflects.
The single features lead guitarist Chris Gennari, who adds a dynamic edge to the track, while Anderson added the large wall of rhythm guitars.
"When we finished the guitars, I told Chris it sounds like, 'If Skynyrd went to Nashville, and then Nashville went to England while flying 8 miles high," Anderson said.
The track was produced and written by Neil Michael Anderson with co-production by Rob Stroup. The master was provided by Ed Brooks (Pearl Jam, Death Cab for Cutie, Fleet Foxes).
Praise for Neil Michael Anderson:
The previous single… "What’s Your Truth?" not only captivates with its catchy melodies but also challenges listeners to engage in introspection, making it a compelling piece that encourages a deeper understanding of self and the world around us."
– Natalie Patrick, EARMILK
– Natalie Patrick, EARMILK
"The addictive hooks and layered instrumentation offer something new with each play, while the introspective lyrics invite reflection."
– Darryl Sterdan, TINNITIST
– Darryl Sterdan, TINNITIST
"With a vibe that channels the easy-going spirit of The Eagles’ “Take It Easy” and the camaraderie of the Traveling Wilburys’ “End of the Line,” Anderson delivers an optimistic message that cuts straight to the heart."
– KINDLINE MAGAZINE
– KINDLINE MAGAZINE
"Neil’s lead vocals soar over a rich tapestry of 12-string guitars and Hammond organs, punctuated by poignant lead guitar riffs."
– Zohaib Chishti, VENTS MAGAZINE
– Zohaib Chishti, VENTS MAGAZINE
About Neil Michael Anderson:
Neil Michael Anderson is a singer-songwriter, with a 12-string guitar and a suitcase in hand. From country-rock anthems to big sky power ballads, Neil covers a lot of ground.
A poet by nature, Neil’s music is known for its deep and enigmatic lyrics, set to verse-chorus anthems, epic power ballads, and poetic art songs that tell a story. Sonically, Neil’s music is a melting pot of genres, blending folk-rock, country-rock, power ballads, psychedelic rock, ambient, and shoegaze, with the occasional accent of medieval troubadours, and Indian ragas.
Neil has collaborated with various artists, including The Sunwrecks, and occasional sit-ins with The Consequences. He won a “Best Music Production Award” at the 2024 New Mexico Music Awards, and will soon release a debut album. Stay tuned!