Ray Wylie Hubbard Says His New Album Is His Best — And Likely Last
The almost 80-year-old outlaw wanted to make Reel 2 Reel 4 Real the way his rock heroes did: “I've always liked records where it's real guys really playing...like the first Buffalo Springfield, first Stones"
At nearly 80 years old, Ray Wylie Hubbard is reflecting on his legacy and delivering what he considers his best work yet with Reel 2 Reel 4 Real. The outlaw country icon's comments on wanting to create an album that captures the authenticity of his rock heroes, like Buffalo Springfield and The Stones, speaks to a desire for musical purity that's resonated with fans of Americana and roots music.
This latest effort from Hubbard is significant not only because of his advanced age, but also because he's signaling it may be his last. As an artist who's been a key figure in the outlaw country movement, his decision to potentially hang up his guitar has industry watchers paying attention. The music world is grappling with the impermanence of its legends, and Hubbard's statement raises questions about the future of his catalog and the impact of his departure on the genre.
What's next for Hubbard's devoted fan base is uncertain, but one thing to watch is how Reel 2 Reel 4 Real is received by critics and listeners. Will it cement his status as a country music icon, and what will be the lasting impact of his body of work? Additionally, fans will likely be keeping a close eye on any future announcements from Hubbard, even if he does intend for this to be his last album.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. StyleNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.