On January 13, 2017, country queen jeannie seely released her newest country studio album, "Written in Song." Her CD was released independently on the record label Cheyenne Records. Seely has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1967. This marks her first album in six years, as well as her sixteenth career full-length record. It is comprised of 14 songs, all of which are written or co-written by Seely.
Songs on the CD
Seely's album begins with "Sometimes I Do," which is mid-tempo, and it was previously recorded by country crooner Ernest Tubb. It continues with the ballad "He's All I Need," which Seely wrote with her late friend, country songstress Dottie West. It is followed by "I'm Never Gonna See You," as well as "Senses," where she is joined by Marty Stuart and veteran country star Connie Smith. It immediately breaks into "Anyone Who Knows What Love Is," as well as the up-beat and sassy "You Don't Need Me," which was previously recorded by country musician Jack Greene.
Seely gives us her take on "My Love For You," which was recorded by the late Merle Haggard, while "Leavin' and Sayin' Goodbye" is a collaboration with Kenny and Tessa Sears of The Time Jumpers.
"The Pain Once You're Gone" is a melancholic tune on the album, and "He Got What He Always Wanted" was previously recorded by fellow Grand Ole Opry star Little Jimmy Dickens. "Life Of A Rodeo Cowboy" was originally recorded by Merle Haggard, where Seely sang background vocals on the original tune, and it is neat to hear her distinct version of the up-tempo tune.
"Enough To Lie" was a song that was originally sung by the late Ray Price, and the CD concludes with the soulful "Who Needs You" and a collaboration with Jessi Colter and Jan Howard entitled "We're Still Hangin' In There Ain't We Jessi," where the country listener is left yearning for more music.
Conclusion
In summation, Jeannie Seely proves to be a timeless country singer-songwriter. It is great to hear new material from one of the "grand ladies" of the Grand Ole Opry. "Written in Song" is a must for any fan of traditional Country Music. It garners 2 thumbs up.