Darren Nicholson Releases “Arkansas Without You”

Darren Nicholson, a singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist from western North Carolina, is making a significant move with “Arkansas Without You.” It’s his first release since leaving his 15-year post as a founding member of Balsam Range, an acclaimed bluegrass quintet. The song, co-written with Charles Humphrey III, features Wes Corbett’s driving banjo.

With Corbett’s dynamic backing and support from Zack Smith on bass, Colby Laney on guitar, Billy Contreras on fiddle, and Nicholson’s signature mandolin sound, “Arkansas Without You” tells a classic story. The song includes topics such as love, jealousy, murder, and regret through indirect hints rather than a straightforward narrative.

Nicholson and harmony singers Jennifer Nicholson and Derek Vaden (Larry Stephenson Band), serve up a memorable chorus:

Last night I had a dream
One worth fighting for
I was in your loving arms
I wasn’t lonesome anymore
‘Til I awoke cold and blue
In Arkansas without you

Notes Nicholson, “’Arkansas Without You’ is our bluegrass romp with a twisted story of romance, deception, and homicide. It’s our modern day bluegrass murder ballad. I watch a lot of forensic files and true-crime shows, and there are many tales like this — the darker side of the human condition. But I will say these fabulous musicians really provide an incredible stage for the story.”

Author: Angel Romero

Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.