Lou Neal has been writing songs for nearly a decade. What started as a form of therapy for the Chickamauga, Georgia native has turned into a lifelong passion that sees her as a promising rising artist in the country music space.
To celebrate her deep love for the genre, Neal has released the aptly-titled “Country Music,” a tongue-in-cheek love letter to the genre that comes equipped with an infectious fiddle lick and a singalong chorus that is poised to build on the success of her debut two single releases in 2024.
We chatted with Neal all about “Country Music,” as well as her traditional country influences, more new music on the way, her never-skip country songs and more!
Pro Country: Your bio mentions finding influence from artists like Randy Travis, George Strait and Keith Whitley. What was it about those three artists, and the traditional stylings of country as a whole, that struck a chord with you?
Lou Neal: I feel like those artists almost helped raise me in a way. Through breakups, hurt, or even happiness, their stories inspired me, and shaped me as not only an artist, but a person. It’s really hard to put into words, but I will say it comes down to even the instruments used, like a steel guitar or a fiddle that puts the words they’re saying into perspective and makes the story feel real. That’s what country music is at its core.
PC: Your bio also mentions beginning to write songs as you were honing your musical craft. How Quickly did you take to songwriting, and what did you enjoy about being able to express yourself in that way?
LN: I started songwriting around 11. My parents split, and the things I had to go through were hard. Things were confusing and I was figuring things out. It felt like everything was changing, but not for the better. When my dad moved to his new place at the time, I came across an old piano. I started to come up with some chords and melodies, and that’s really where my songwriting began. It was therapy.
PC: When did you realize that music was something you wanted to, and actually could, pursue as a career?
LN: Okay, I’m definitely gonna get deep here [laughs], but I realized music was something I wanted to do early on. Specifically when I wrote a song about my aunt who was passing away from cancer. It was called “Too Far Away.” The reaction my family had left an impression on me. The feeling was unlike anything I have ever felt. I knew God gave me the voice and the words to say for a reason in that moment. I knew it was a feeling I never wanted to stop chasing.
PC: You released your debut single, “Georgia’s on His Mind,” last March. What emotions were you feeling as you were preparing to release music for the first time, and why did you feel that “Georgia’s on His Mind” was the right song to debut with?
LN: Obviously, I was excited to finally release music. I felt like I was keeping so much to myself and wanted to share it with the world. I’ve always posted cover songs on social media that were sad and low-tempo. “Georgia’s on His Mind” was a song that’s upbeat and a little more unexpected from me, so I felt it was appropriate, but it also still has those lyrics that are true to me and are still deep.
PC: The music video for “Georgia’s on His Mind” has earned over 20,000 views on YouTube since its release, and the song has accumulated thousands of views and streams across multiple platforms. How encouraging was the response to “Georgia’s on His Mind” out of the gate, especially as it was your debut single?
LN: It was honestly overwhelming, and still is. I didn’t expect people to really listen or care about it, especially since it was my first single. I really felt the love. It was so heartwarming, and it definitely reassured me that I have a place in country music and gave me that confidence to keep going.
PC: Last September, you featured on “Nothing But a Dream” by Aaron Carney. Can you talk about how that collaboration came to be and how much you enjoyed working together on the song?
LN: My producer, Andrew Preavett, introduced me to Aaron after seeing several projects they’ve done together. We quickly became close friends and he offered to have me feature on the song. When I first heard it and his message behind it, I instantly knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. It’s such a powerful and personal song for him. Now it is to me too, and so many other people. It was honestly an honor to be able to help him tell such a beautiful story. I’m forever grateful for that opportunity.
PC: You mentioned on social media that your last single, “Fixin’ Two,” was a challenge to perfect with your team. How happy are you with the way the song has turned out, and how important was it for you to take the extra time to perfect the song?
LN: It definitely was a challenge. The lyrics in my music are by far the most important part. Andrew and I were at a crossroads with this song. We knew where we wanted to go with it, but just couldn’t find how to say them effectively. We had to really take that extra time to make sure the lyrics rang true, but that effort paid off, and it’s one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written.
PC: You just released your newest single, “Country Music,” which is a love letter to the genre. Can you talk about how the idea came to pay homage to the genre and how the song came together?
LN: Funny story actually! I was picking at the guitar one night after a long week of putting my heart and soul into my music. Needless to say it was wearing me out, but I couldn’t help but think, “how cool is it that I am doing exactly what I always dreamed of?” That led me to thinking about a relationship I was in where this guy wanted me to choose him instead of following my dreams. So it’s a breakup song, but also a love song as it personifies country music as someone who’s there for you and always has your back. Just like the songs! Also, the guy didn’t even like country music. Like, come on, what was I thinking?!
PC: As you’re paying homage to country music with your new single, can you tell us a few of your quintessential, never-skip country songs?
LN: Of course I can!
- “Two Dozen Roses” by Shenandoah. You’re never supposed to skip that song. It’s like a rule.
- “Fancy” by Reba McEntire
- “I’m No Stranger To The Rain” by Keith Whitley (definitely one of my pre-show hype songs for when I get nervous!)
PC: You’ve mentioned on social media that you wrote several songs in 2024 and have been consistently working on new music. What information, if any, can you give about what will follow “Country Music”? What can listeners expect to hear?
LN: I will be completely honest when I say I have so many songs I am so proud of that I don’t even know what to choose for my next release. But with “Country Music” being a fun song, I can say the next one will definitely be a tear-jerker.
PC: With “Country Music” out into the world, what do you have planned for the rest of 2025?
LN: Definitely more live performances for sure! My shows are super energetic and so much fun. Spending time with my band and meeting people who love my music gives me such gratitude. I’ll have a few releases sprinkled here and there as well, so stay tuned, and be on the lookout!
PC: Is there anything you’d like to add?
LN: I just want to thank everyone who’s been there to support me so far! I hope that this helps you get to know a little more about me. It’s been such a blessing and I’m excited to see where this road leads. Also, thank you Pro Country for taking the time to hear what I have to say and for allowing me to share my story!
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