Janet Devlin Embraces Solitude In Empowering New Single “Houston” Out Now

Irish singer-songwriter Janet Devlin is making a powerful return with her explosive new single, “Houston,” out now, igniting excitement for the upcoming deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed 2024 album, Emotional Rodeo. Now reimagined as Not My First Emotional Rodeo, Janet unveils the first bonus track from the expanded release originally launched last November. “Houston” blends Janet’s signature Nashville twang with an upbeat, sing-along anthem for people who enjoy their own company, showcasing that solitude isn’t loneliness, but liberation. 

Co-written by Chris Markey, produced by Paul Whalley, and mastered by Christian Wright at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, the song captures the freedom and peace Janet experiences when she’s alone, particularly in rural, isolated settings. Once overwhelmed by emotions, she’s now found strength in her independence. The song builds with rhythmic handclaps, searing guitar solos, and vocals delivered with a gravelly rawness, creating an enthralling listening experience with a fresh honky-tonk edge. All the while, Janet stays true to her distinctive interpretation of the genre, rooted in heartfelt, emotionally charged storytelling that adds new depth to her Americana repertoire.

Janet shared the inspiration behind the track: “I wanted to write a song that would sum up the freedom I feel when I’m on my own. Be it solo horseback riding around the countryside or just anywhere far away from where the people are. As someone who has too many feelings and they used to bleed into most avenues of my life – emotional detachment, in this way, is actually a great and freeing thing. For some the concept of being in the vast unknown, away from civilisation is scary. The old me would’ve probably agreed. Now, for me it feels peaceful. I enjoy my own company, some may say a little too much. I feel like super-rural living in a lot of ways is like being in outer space. Both are on the fringes of civilization and reality. Houston, I got so many problems” references the famous “Houston, we have a problem,” but it’s ironic. There is no mission control. Just me, alone. No panic. Just embracing relying on myself.”

“This song is for the people who enjoy their own space. Especially in this world where we’re connected 24/7.  It’s a party song for those of us at our own solo parties. Yes, we may be a little bonkers – but who isn’t? We’re not lost, unless we’re trying to be. It’s not loneliness if we’re liberated. I promise you, we’re doing just fine.”

Janet has embarked on several live dates throughout the year. After supporting country star Corey Kent in February, she kicked festival season off in March with performances at the iconic C2C (Country to Country) festival in Belfast, London and Berlin. As anticipation builds for the release of ‘Not My First Emotional Rodeo,’ she’ll be bringing her signature fearless spirit to The Long Road Festival in Leicestershire on August 22nd and 23rd, followed by a show-stopping headline slot at The British Country Music Festival in Blackpool on Sunday, August 31st. Rounding out her live run, the artist will take centre stage for an unmissable headline show at Colours, Hoxton, on Thursday, October 16th, promising a special night of electrifying new music. 

Emotional Rodeo was a major success, cementing Janet’s prominent place in the country-rock scene. The album reached #1 on the iTunes Country Chart, #4 on the UK Official Country Artists Albums Chart, #5 on the UK Official Indie Breakers Chart, and #21 on the UK Official Independent Albums Chart. Janet appeared for a session on The Scott Mills Radio 2 Breakfast Show ahead of C2C Festival and has received praise from the likes of Russell Crowe, who previously took her on tour and continues to applaud her talent – comparing her to Stevie Nicks and admiring her ability to be both “ethereal” and “very direct” on stage. 

Her singles also saw strong chart success, reaching #31 in the Big Top 40, #15 in the UK iTunes Charts, #4 in the iTunes Country Charts, in addition to national radio play on Capital & Heart, Absolute Country, New To 2 with Scott Mills, placements on the BBC Core playlist and over 110 regional radio playlists. Singles “Red Flag” and “Best Life“landed coveted month-long positions on the BBC Radio 2 B List Playlist, the latter peaking at #38 in the UK Radio Monitor Airplay Top 100. The album also saw press coverage in the likes of Daily Express, Daily Mirror, Daily Mail, The Sun, OK!, Record Collector, The Irish Post, The Irish News, Wonderland, CelebMix, ATC, VIP Magazine, and Record of the Day. Other notable recognitions include a special appearance on The Late Late Show Country Music Special (the world’s longest running live chat show), an interview with Ray D’Arcy on RTE1 and the “Red Flag” music video featured on Sunday Brunch.

Emotional Rodeo 
track listing:

1. Cigarette Sweets
2. Daddy
3. Country Singer (Clean)
4. Best Life
5. Best In You
6. Back To My Senses
7. Emotional Rodeo
8. Burden
9. Whiskey On My Breath
10. Red Flag
11. Catfishin’
12. Ghosted
13. Funeral For My Best Friend
14. The Problem Is Me