Country artist Ernest has unveiled 'Lorelei,' a sun-soaked track serving as the first preview of his upcoming album Deep Blue. The single, released on January 30, 2026, blends beachy island vibes with southern flair. Ernest described the album as evoking 'Alabama meeting Jimmy Buffett.'
Ernest, a prolific figure in country music, continues his momentum into 2026 with the release of 'Lorelei,' the lead single from his forthcoming album Deep Blue. The track, co-written by Ernest alongside Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip, and Mark Holman, captures a sense of escapism amid winter's chill, reminiscent of Zac Brown Band's classic beach anthems like 'Knee Deep' and 'Toes'.
In a December 2025 interview with Bobby Bones, Ernest revealed that Deep Blue was already completed, with plans for a spring break rollout—likely March or early April 2026—to align with 'boat season.' He elaborated on the album's sound: “There’s a little island inspiration in this next album for sure. And just like a little southern, too. It’s like Alabama and Jimmy Buffett had a baby.” The title track's production emphasizes melodic choruses, with lyrics painting a tale of a sailor's longing: “Lorelei, Lorelei / I still hear you whisper in the dead of night / You wreck my world, and I don’t know why / I keep my sails in the wind for ya / Lorelei, Lorelei.”
Ernest's 2025 was marked by high activity, including co-writing four chart-topping hits for Morgan Wallen's I’m The Problem—such as 'Smile' (2x platinum) and the title track (3x platinum)—and releasing two projects: the collaborative Cadillac Sessions in May with artists like Miranda Lambert and Snoop Dogg, followed by Live From The South in November, a nod to his Nashville roots. This new direction promises a refreshing shift, blending heartfelt storytelling with summery production that invites repeated listens.