Ashley Monroe Unveils Bold New Album 'Dear Nashville'

The acclaimed singer-songwriter reflects on her love-hate relationship with the country music capital.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:40pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering sequins and shattered glass, captured in dramatic high-contrast lighting to evoke the glamour and grit of the Nashville music industry.Ashley Monroe's vulnerable new album 'Dear Nashville' explores the singer-songwriter's complex relationship with the country music capital.Today in Nashville

Ashley Monroe, a member of Miranda Lambert's Pistol Annies trio, has released a new concept album called 'Dear Nashville' that explores her complex feelings about the country music industry and the city that has been both her muse and source of frustration. Co-produced and co-written entirely with veteran songwriter Luke Laird, the album grew from the candid opening track 'I Hate Nashville' and goes on to examine Monroe's romantic longing as well.

Why it matters

As one of country music's most respected singer-songwriters, Monroe's vulnerable and honest exploration of her relationship with Nashville provides a rare insider's perspective on the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in the industry. The album's raw honesty and personal reflections resonate with many artists who have grappled with the realities of the music business.

The details

The album was sparked by a writing session where Monroe told Laird she had 'a storm in her heart' about her feelings towards Nashville. That led to the creation of the opening track 'I Hate Nashville,' which then inspired the entire concept album. Monroe and Laird co-wrote and co-produced the full project, with Monroe aiming to 'say what she feels' about her love-hate relationship with the city and music industry that has been both her muse and source of frustration.

  • Monroe released the 'Dear Nashville' EP on April 17, 2026.
  • The album was co-written and co-produced in early 2026.

The players

Ashley Monroe

An acclaimed singer-songwriter and one-third of the country music trio Pistol Annies, alongside Miranda Lambert.

Luke Laird

A veteran country music songwriter who co-wrote and co-produced Monroe's 'Dear Nashville' album.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This album started with Ashley bringing the title, 'I Hate Nashville,' to the room one day. The music is what brings most songwriters to this town – but when it comes to the business, that's when people can get burned out.”

— Luke Laird, Songwriter

“The bottom line of the album is I wish you loved me like I love you.”

— Ashley Monroe

What’s next

Monroe is expected to promote the 'Dear Nashville' album with a series of intimate live performances in the coming months.

The takeaway

Monroe's raw and honest exploration of her complex relationship with the Nashville music industry provides a rare insider's perspective that resonates with many artists who have grappled with the realities of pursuing a career in the competitive country music scene.