About Diggy Graves:
Raised in the PNW, Diggy Graves likes to describe his music as a melting pot of genres that ranges from Rap to Horror Core. Diggy has been making music for most of his life and decided to create his persona behind the mask in 2020. You might know him from his most popular songs Red Vineyard and Circus Psycho. You can usually find him hidden in the woods making music in his cabin but in his free-time he enjoys long walks on the beach, hanging out with his son and digging graves. He always looks forward to performing live and seeing all his loyal fans.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
Josiah Leming has paid his dues. As a teenager from East Tennessee, his devotion to music led him to hit the road, where he lived
in his car and played for anyone who would listen. That took him all the way to a major record deal when he was only nineteen.
When that ended, he refused to give up and became an indie artist, relying solely on the music and his undeniable gift for crafting
relatable songs that led to a devoted fan base he calls the Bonnevilles. He appreciates them so much that he includes them in his
artist name. “They’re the reason I’m able to make music,” he says.
2024 saw Josiah and the Bonnevilles reaching new heights, completing a headlining tour of thirty-three sold-out dates followed
by a slew of international stops that proved his global following. He has become known for raw emotion and a profound
connection to his audience. This newfound attention has led to much anticipation for his new album — and As Is lives up to the
expectations.
“I knew I had a responsibility to try to become a better writer, a better artist,” he says. “One day that feels like a blessing, and the
next it feels pretty intimidating.” Instead of reproducing his popular sound from the self produced “Endurance”, he decided to
expand it. “I think it would have been hard to keep my excitement to go out on the road with another kind of acoustic record.”
His tenth studio album finds him going more electric than ever before, even as he unplugs from the digital world. “I feel like a
grizzled old veteran at this point,” he says, even though he is only thirty-six. “I’m desiring quiet, a work space away from the
internet…I felt like it was important to pull back this last year and try to understand what’s on my heart.” What he found there
resulted in an album focusing on joy, sorrow, and working-class issues that feel very of the moment in a time when so many
Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Leming comes by his empathy for working people honestly. He’s one of nine siblings, born and raised in Morristown, Tennessee,
right in the heart of Appalachia. He taught himself piano when he was eight and was writing songs by thirteen. As a child he was
intently aware of his community and intensely proud of his people, something he thinks about even more in these trying times. “I
look at my I look at my folks in East Tennessee and very few of them seem to be winning in this new world,” Leming says.
“Being a regular person, working, trying your best. I think that’s something to be proud of.”
His records have always been intensely personal. But on As Is he wanted to step away from being the main character and instead
use vignettes to express essential truths he has learned. “I want anyone to be able to put it on and not think about me when they’re
listening. I want them to be in the emotion.” Because of this he made a conscious choice to not include himself on the album
cover.
Leming chose ten tracks from ninety-six songs he has written over the last year and a half. As Is features the most co-writes he
has ever recorded. “I love writing alone, but I wanted to bring in some trusted partners on this one,” he says. The resulting list
features some of the most acclaimed songwriters working today. There’s Nashville powerhouse Natalie Hemby, a two-time
Grammy winner who has written for everyone from Lady Gaga to Miranda Lambert; Joel Little, a Grammy winner who has
written with Lorde, Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and many others; Scott Harris, best known for work he’s produced or written for
artists such as Shawn Mendes, Dua Lipa, and The Chainsmokers; and others.
To help him find the sound he hoped to achieve, Leming brought in Konrad Snyder as a co-producer. Snyder has engineered or
produced some of the best work to come out of Nashville in the last decade, including tracks by Kacey Musgraves, Stephen
Sanchez, and Noah Kahan. “It was an amazing partnership with Konrad,” Leming says. “I never had to touch a computer or a
piece of gear; he’s a whiz with all that stuff. I’m usually so hands-on with my stuff, switching between setting up, tracking and
editing but on this record I got to just perform the songs.”
The songs on As Is feature Leming’s vivid sense of place, precise yet poetic lyrics, and emotion that is always longingly
expressed by his vulnerable vocals. This collection is more up-tempo than most of his work, which is something Leming and
Snyder strived to make happen on about half the songs. “I was thinking a lot about the energy, of having a couple songs that can
amp up people at live shows,” he says.
This power is especially apparent on songs like opening track “Good Boy”, which boils toward a rousing breakdown, “Carolina
Heart”, a tune Leming calls “less existential and my attempt at a feel-good song,“ and “Going Gone”, a nostalgic track about the
passage of time. “Mountain Girl” is a foot-tapping harmonica-led tribute to Appalachian women. There’s the jaunty rock of
“Redline”, and a song called “One Day at a Time” that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction,
depression, or a lack of confidence. Leming’s fans often cite his storytelling abilities as one reason they love his work, and that
takes center stage on the title track, a spoken-word song. “Where It Starts” is a meditation on how heartache can lead to great art.
The first single is the powerful “Hell Without the Flames,” the album’s darkest track that also showcases some of the best lyrics
and vocals of his career.
They all make for a collection of songs that take the listener full circle. “There’s all these kinds of love stories, and it walks
through many variations on heartbreak, ultimately landing on home, acceptance and overcoming that hurt. I just want people to
be able to see themselves in the songs.”
That’s what it’s all about for Leming. “The only goal for me is to make something real, and honest, and that can get them through
the day,” he says. “I gave everything I have for this album. I laid it all on the table, which is what I always want to do.”
As Is proves to be all of that, and more, a milestone for one of our most authentic and resonant artists working today.
