A Letter from Erica Sunshine Lee
Hey y’all!
I’m coming to you today from a place of gratitude, reflection, and excitement. I’ve just wrapped up an incredible week of skiing in Breckenridge with my good friend Alisha. The skies were clear, the snow was perfect, and we shared tons of laughs, food, and drinks. After a pretty intense winter in Key West, where I was drinking daily, I’ve made a decision to go sober for Lent. My body and my spirit need some healing, and this feels like the right time to reset and refocus on my health.
I also want to take a moment to ask for your prayers for little Paxton from my hometown. He’s recently been in a devastating car accident, and I’m praying for his recovery. Fasting and praying for him has become a big part of my focus as I head into this next chapter.
Speaking of chapters, I’m setting sail tomorrow on the Parenthood Cruise! I’ll be performing for 350 amazing folks while cruising to Mexico—how incredible is that? It’s going to be an unforgettable adventure alongside some super talented musicians, including Bob Carvin, Jeff Pike, and Jonas Lorence. I’m beyond excited to be part of this.
Now, let me take a moment to talk about Country & Western, my 11th album, which is out now! It’s crazy to think I’ve come this far in my career, and I’ve loved every minute of the journey. In the last six years, I’ve taken some major turns in my music, but one thing remains: I’m still the same country singer-songwriter from North Georgia. My songs—whether they’re about paradise beaches or heartbreaking love—are all about real life. And that’s something I want to share with y’all.
Even though I’ve been honored to be named the Tropical Rock Female Artist of the Year for the past four years, my roots are country. I’ve been writing country songs since I first picked up a guitar in 2006, and I’m thrilled to finally showcase that side of my songwriting. Country & Western is a collection of songs that span over a decade of my life. Some of these songs were written years ago, and some are fresh, but all of them are a reflection of who I am—an artist, a daughter, a friend, and a woman who’s lived a life full of love, loss, and growth.
One of the most special things about this album is the collaborations. I had the pleasure of writing with some seriously talented folks like Dan Mitchell, Porter Howell (from Little Texas), and Justin Robbins. Songs like “Running Like the Cumberland,” a duet with Justin, have become so close to my heart. I can’t wait to perform these with y’all.
Country & Western is not just about country music. It’s about storytelling. Whether I’m singing about the warmth of the beach or the struggle of standing up for my beliefs, I always write from the heart. I hope these songs make you laugh, cry, and feel connected. In songs like “Gasoline” and “Heartache Waiting to Happen,” I’ve learned that sometimes, you have to let go, even when it’s hard. And through it all, I keep pushing forward, just like the rivers and mountains I sing about.
None of this would be possible without the love and support of my amazing family—my parents, especially my dad, who inspired the song “Number One Dad.” He’s always been my rock, and I’m so proud to be his daughter. My mom has been with me every step of the way, too. As much as this album is about my journey, it’s also about honoring the ones who’ve shaped me.
Finally, I want to say thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all of your support. From sharing my music to showing up to shows, buying my merch, and spreading the word—it means the world to me. This album wouldn’t have been possible without y’all. I am so grateful for the love and encouragement you’ve given me throughout the years.
As I continue this ride with Country & Western, I hope my songs are the soundtrack to your life—whether you’re cruising on a boat to Mexico, sipping on a frozen drink, or navigating the hard days. We’re all in this together.
Can’t wait to see you on tour this year! Be sure to follow me on Bandsintown to stay updated on my shows near you.
With so much love,
Erica Sunshine Lee