Sturgill Simpson

Sturgill Simpson (born 1978) is a Kentucky-born singer and songwriter who has systematically refused to be categorized. Metamodern Sounds in Country Music (2014) — its title referencing Ray Charles' groundbreaking country album — fused Waylon Jennings-style outlaw country with psychedelic production and lyrics about DMT and Eastern philosophy. A Sailor's Guide to Earth (2016) won the Grammy for Best Country Album over mainstream Nashville competition. Then he pivoted entirely: Sound & Fury (2019) was a synth-heavy rock album with an accompanying anime film. The Ballad of Dood & Juanita (2021) was a bluegrass concept album. His refusal to play the Nashville game — he has publicly criticized the country music industry and mainstream country radio — has made him a hero to fans of authentic country music.