Ella’s Pick: “Hypothetically Speaking,” Willow Avalon
Ella’s Intern Pick is “Hypothetically Speaking” by Willow Avalon. Willow Martin, otherwise known as Willow Avalon, is an Americana country singer-songwriter. Currently signed to Atlantic Records, she released her debut EP, Stranger, in 2024, followed by her first album, Southern Belle Rasin’ Hell, in 2025. Now, she’s released her second album, Pink Pocket Pistol, in June of 2026, featuring the song “Hypothetically Speaking” with Kaitlyn Butts. Willow Avalon’s sound is classic country, folk, and Americana with a rebellious pop edge. She sings with a thick Southern drawl. “Hypothetically Speaking” is a dun, dark country murder ballad. The song follows two Southern women scheming over the phone to hide a body. The conversational back-and-forth between Avalaon and Butts is punchy and theatrical while capturing a Southern belle attitude.
Josh’s Pick: “Thunder Road,” Bruce Springsteen
Josh’s intern pick of the week is “Thunder Road,” by Bruce Springsteen. Growing up, especially in New Jersey, Bruce was a big deal. Every playlist had at least one song by the Boss. “Thunder Road” is the first song on his Born to Run album and starts off with an amazing harmonica and piano. At the time, The E Street Band had the legendary saxophonist, Clarence Clemens. His Solo in “Thunder Road” is another reason why the song is so great and powerful. Bruce and The E Street Band have evolved into one of the greatest American Rock bands of all time.
Gracie’s Pick: “I Choose You,” The SteelDrivers
Gracie’s intern pick of the week is “I Choose You” by The SteelDrivers. In honor of the Fourth of July coming up, this week’s theme is all about American bands and artists, and The SteelDrivers are a perfect choice. Formed in Nashville, Tennessee, the band is known for blending bluegrass, country, soul, and Americana into a sound that feels both classic and powerful. “I Choose You” appears on their 2020 album Bad For You and highlights the band’s strong storytelling and roots-driven sound. The song has a warm, heartfelt message about choosing love every day, backed by the group’s signature fiddle, banjo, and rich harmonies. It is a great pick for this week’s theme because The SteelDrivers represent a distinctly American sound that feels grounded, emotional, and timeless.
