Crys Matthews Unveils Powerful New Single 'Forged In Fire'

The acclaimed folk artist blends sacred hymns and African rhythms into a rallying cry for justice.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:05pm

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Acclaimed Americana/folk/country singer-songwriter Crys Matthews has released her latest single, 'Forged In Fire,' which fuses sacred hymnody with traditional African strokes into a powerful song of hope for justice. The track marks an exciting new chapter for the artist, who has signed an exclusive publishing and recording agreement with TRO Essex Music Group and its label arm, Shamus Records.

Why it matters

Matthews is known for her authentic lyrics and balanced sound that blends elements of country, Americana, folk, blues, and bluegrass. She has been recognized by the International Folk Music Awards, winning Song of the Year in 2022 and 2025, and being named Artist of the Year in 2024. Her mission is to amplify the voices of the unheard and shed light on social justice issues.

The details

The a cappella 'Forged In Fire' rolls out with gospel-tinged vocal harmonies and a thumping rhythm that emphasizes the passion of the tune. Matthews' evocative voice thrills and galvanizes, ebbing and rising on silky textures that are vaguely reminiscent of Macy Gray. The song was inspired by the tumultuous headlines of a particular week, and Matthews says it now feels like a 'rallying cry from those who withstood similar conditions during the Civil Rights movement.'

  • Matthews released 'Forged In Fire' on March 28, 2026.

The players

Crys Matthews

An Americana/folk/country singer-songwriter, social justice warrior, LGBTQ+ advocate, and proud Black woman who has released her latest single, 'Forged In Fire.'

TRO Essex Music Group

The exclusive publishing and recording home for Matthews, which also represents Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Pete Townshend, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, and more.

Shamus Records

The label arm of TRO Essex Music Group, which has released albums by Woody Guthrie, Flamy Grant, and Sam Robbins.

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What they’re saying

“The headlines that week were: U.S. Judge Blocks Trump's Birthright Ban, Allows Class-Action Lawsuit to Proceed; Protesters Confront Feds in Camarillo, CA, as Agents Target Farmworkers; CPJ Calls for Release of Journalist Mario Guevara; Trump Admin Withdraws Head Start Services for Undocumented Children; CUNY Targets Pro-Palestinian Students and Staff in Latest Crackdown; and countless others about everything from tariffs to deadly floods in Texas. While this song was born out of the chaos of a particular week, almost a year later, in the wake of the turmoil this administration's disdain for democracy has wrought in Minneapolis and in so many other American cities, 'Forged In Fire' feels like a rallying cry from those who withstood similar conditions during the Civil Rights movement.”

— Crys Matthews, Singer-songwriter

What’s next

Matthews has an upcoming tour, with shows scheduled in Minneapolis, Arlington Heights, Ridgway, and South Bethlehem in April, May, and July 2026.

The takeaway

With 'Forged In Fire,' Crys Matthews continues to use her music as a powerful platform to amplify social justice issues and inspire hope in the face of adversity. Her blend of Americana, folk, and gospel elements creates a captivating and emotionally charged listening experience.