Lola Kirke’s new country album mirrors her personal development

Lola Kirke has had a busy start to 2025 with the launch of three new projects that highlight her deeper connection to Nashville’s country scene. Her upcoming country album “Trailblazer” is set to be released on March 21, following the release of her memoir “Wild West Village” in January and her upcoming role in the movie “Sinners,” alongside Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan.

Embracing Nashville’s country culture, Kirke sat down for an interview at an East Nashville coffee shop, donning an oversized sweater, loose jeans, and red leather cowboy boots. At 34 years old, Kirke has found her place between rock and roll and country music, realizing that her authenticity lies in embracing both worlds.

“Trailblazer” marks Kirke’s third country album in five years, with nods of approval from Elle King and Jack White along the way. Her creative journey has often left her feeling like an outsider in the genre she admires. However, working with Grammy-winning producer Daniel Tashian on this album has allowed her to create music that is stripped of any stylistic affectations, focusing more on her unique sound that blends her punk rock roots with a country vibe.

Kirke’s authenticity shines through in songs like “Bury Me in New York City” and “Raised by Wolves,” reflecting her experiences growing up between London, Los Angeles, and New York City. By infusing her music with intention and honesty, she has moved away from being perceived as indulging in country aesthetics to creating her most authentic and compelling work to date.

Her memoir, “Wild West Village,” parallels her album, exploring her upbringing as the daughter of Simon Kirke, the drummer for rock bands Bad Company and Free. Through stories like “Mississippi, My Sister, Elvis and Me” and “Marlboro Lights and Madonna,” Kirke delves into her unique childhood experiences shaped by her family’s rock and roll background and her mother’s influence.

Kirke’s dedication to writing and storytelling has allowed her to unpack and make sense of her life experiences through music and literature. Collaborating with songwriters like Liz Rose and Ashley Monroe, Kirke incorporates reflections from her memoir into her songs, creating a cohesive narrative that intertwines her personal life with her creative expression.

Looking forward, Kirke is determined to continue her creative journey, focusing on projects that resonate with her emotions and experiences. Her commitment to authenticity and vulnerability in her work reflects a broader shift in the country music industry towards embracing diverse voices and narratives.

As Kirke navigates her “crazy” life, she remains committed to building a community of artists who prioritize emotional connection over commercial success. By sharing her truth through music and writing, Kirke hopes to empower others to embrace their emotions and find solace in storytelling.