Sturgill Simpson, initially known as an outlaw country artist, expanded his musical horizons from country to southern rock and psychedelic music. Born in Kentucky in 1978, Simpson served in the Navy before moving to Nashville and releasing his debut solo album, High Top Mountain, in 2013. His diverse discography includes the honky-tonk anthems of his early work, the trippy twist on country in Metamodern Sounds in Country Music, and the bluesy rock of Sound & Fury. Simpson's versatility was further showcased in his bluegrass reinterpretations on Cuttin’ Grass, Volumes 1 and 2, and his alter ego, Johnny Blue Skies, emerged for the critically-acclaimed Passage du Desir in 2024.

Simpson's musical evolution has been marked by Grammy nominations and a unique approach to genre blending, culminating in his latest releases that continue to defy expectations and showcase his range as an artist. His ability to seamlessly transition between different styles and experiment with new sounds has solidified his status as a boundary-pushing musician in the industry, with each album offering a fresh perspective on his evolving artistry. The Ballad of Dood and Juanita in 2021 and the alter ego project, Johnny Blue Skies, in 2024, highlight Simpson's commitment to innovation and creativity, ensuring that his music remains a dynamic force in the ever-changing landscape of modern music.