Oklahoma native J.R. Carroll dropped his latest single, “Shame,” last Friday. The heavyhearted ballad is his second sampling of Dark Clouds, his debut album set to release on December 6. Written and self-produced by Carroll, it follows his release earlier this month, “Hometown Hero.”
In his Southbound Sessions performance of the song from last year, Carroll reveals that the song is about father’s relationship with his brother — which mirrors his relationship with his own brother. Its lyrics, sung in second-person, paint a vivid picture of a broken-down relationship and the emotional fallout in the singer’s life (hence “shame”). Carroll does an incredible job of telling his story through imagery that is true to life and intimate lines that give a glimmer of hope for the future, even in the worst conditions. Supported by a full band of lilting strings, brushed drums, guitars, and Carroll’s rich, full voice, the song’s music adds to its setting and emotional tapestry.
“Shame” is another indicator that Carroll is a songwriter at the top of his craft — and while he makes it look easy, it’s clear that a ton of work, reflection, and time has gone into these first singles from Dark Clouds. When he announced the album in October, he noted that it was four years in the making.
“It’s been a long, fulfilling, and oftentimes defeating process, but it’s finally done and I couldn’t be more proud,” he said. We’ve been fans of Carroll since he first came on the scene with his debut single in 2020, so we’re also incredibly proud and excited to see his first full-length come to life. Follow him here to stay posted before it drops in two weeks, and give “Shame” a listen below.