The 1990s saw a host of new rock ‘n’ roll and adult-oriented roots come to the forefront on the American music scene. There was an understated, long-haired kid from Georgia in the mix with bands like the Black Crowes, Wilco, Sheryl Crow and the Counting Crows.
His name was Shawn Mullins and his brooding, lyrically-thoughtful style stood out, harkening back to the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young. He exploded out of the gates with the album Soul’s Core and it left a mark with the Grammy-nominated song “Lullaby” and the hit “Shimmer”-which became an anthem for Australia as part of its promotional campaign during the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics.
His career has only grown since, with songs like “All in My Head,” which was featured on the hit television sitcom Scrubs and his huge hit “Beautiful Wreck” from 2006’s 9th Ward Pickin’ Parlor record.
We discuss his career and more as Shawn celebrates the 20th anniversary of Soul’s Core by recording two new versions of the album, dubbed Soul’s Core Revival. The songs are not a remix or a remaster of the original, rather, brand-new recordings with new arrangements of the songs. One album will be new stripped down solo performances - some on guitar, some on piano, and one a cappella - and the second will be a new studio recording with his full band, Soul Carnival.
Enjoy the latest episode of The Load Out music podcast with the great Shawn Mullins.