On Things Happen That Way, due September 23, 2022, six-time Grammy-winning Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dr. John otherwise known as Malcolm John “Mac” Rebennack Jr. reveals yet another dimension of his cosmically vast musicality: a lifelong affinity for classic country & western music. Things Happen That Way arrives as the latest and final studio album from an artist who remained wholly unpredictable, alchemizing the charmed simplicity of traditional country into a wildly enchanting body of work.
The first single from the album – a haunting and hypnotic new rendition of “I Walk on Guilded Splinters” (which originally appeared on Dr. John’s groundbreaking 1968 debut Gris- Gris) – is released and can be heard below.
Country-rock powerhouse Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real joined Dr. John for the newly recorded version of the classic track. “It’s a great honor to attempt to interpret the work of Dr. John,” says Lukas. “His music has inspired me since childhood. He was a friend to many, and we all miss him dearly. His music is medicine.”
Things Happen That Way marks the fulfillment of a longtime goal of the legendary singer/songwriter/pianist, who first began plotting a country-inspired album decades ago. In bringing his album’s songs to life, Dr. John drew on a lineup of musicians befitting of a universally beloved luminary. Along with an elite cadre of New Orleans session players, the album’s personnel include icons Willie Nelson and Aaron Neville, and rising stars Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real.
The album’s liner notes, penned by Rebennack’s longtime friend, renowned television producer Ken Ehrlich (creator of PBS’ groundbreaking music series Soundstage, and producer of the GRAMMY Awards for four decades) offer the sage observation that Things Happen That Way is “the most personal and intimate journey into his soul that has ever been put on tape.”
Things Happen That Way Track Listing:
Funny How Time Slips Away
Ramblin’ Man
Gimme That Old Time Religion (feat. Willie Nelson)
I Walk On Guilded Splinters (feat. Lukas Nelson & Promise of The Real)
I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry
End Of The Line (feat. Aaron Neville)
Holy Water
Sleeping Dogs Best Left Alone
Give Myself A Good Talkin’ To
Guess Things Happen That Way
