There are certain songs that don’t just fill a space; they create one. They carve out a world, a feeling, a moment in time that becomes yours the instant the first note hits. “Roll,” the latest single from Nashville singer-songwriter Ronny Criss featuring the legendary McCrary Sisters, is one of those songs. It’s a spiritual, a road anthem, and a rallying cry all at once—a modern-day hymn for anyone who’s ever had to dig deep and find the strength to keep moving.

For those who have followed Criss’ journey, this is no surprise. Since his days as one half of the indie-folk duo Sea Changer, he has been building a body of work that is as emotionally resonant as it is sonically diverse. Collaborations like “Heart is Home” with Birdtalker and “See You There” with Molly Parden established him as a master of intimate, heartfelt storytelling. His 2021 solo debut, Highways, produced by Bryan Clark, was the ultimate manifestation of this. Hailed as “the ultimate road record,” it cemented his reputation for blending Americana, country, pop, and rock into a sound that feels both classic and distinctly his own, featuring standout turns from Katie Cole of The Smashing Pumpkins and longtime creative partner Shawn Byrne. His music has even found a home on the small screen, with a viral moment on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy propelling his songwriting to a global stage.

Now, with his highly anticipated sophomore album, Hurricane Heart, Criss is charting an even more ambitious course. The record is a confident evolution, a deep dive into cinematic Americana that builds on his roots while fearlessly exploring new sonic territory. And at the heart of this brave new sound is “Roll,” co-written with fellow Nashville Americana artist Judy Paster. It’s the fourth single from the album, and it’s a track that feels less like a song and more like a declaration.

From the very first downbeat, “Roll” is a masterclass in mood and texture. It is rooted in the rich, soulful traditions of Muscle Shoals, with a warm, rootsy arrangement anchored by a soulful Hammond B3 organ. But this isn’t a simple throwback. Criss’ rich Americana sensibility gives it a modern edge, a grit that feels earned and authentic. His vocal performance is the engine that drives it all, a rugged and dynamic instrument that dips into a deep, resonant tone reminiscent of Josh Turner before rising into a high, rural twang that adds a jolt of emotional urgency. There’s a lived-in wisdom to his delivery, a sense that he has walked this road before, making the central mantra—“Let your wheels roll like you want them to roll…”—a powerful call to action.

But the true genius of “Roll” lies in the addition of the legendary McCrary Sisters. A powerhouse quartet known for their soulful harmonies and deep gospel roots, they don’t just provide backing vocals; they elevate the entire track to a higher plane. When they enter the fray, their voices are bold, uplifting, and brimming with a spiritual energy that is impossible to fake. They never overpower Criss, but instead add a layer of depth and fire, echoing the chorus not as a simple refrain, but as a gospel-fueled call to freedom. As Alfreda McCrary herself noted, “It was a true pleasure collaborating with Ronny Criss on his new single, “Roll.” We, The McCrary Sisters, are incredibly excited about the release.” And that excitement is palpable in every note.

Adding to the track’s rich tapestry is a standout lead slide guitar, which glides through the mix with a golden tone that drips like honey and bites with just the right amount of grit. This sonic detail, combined with the genre-blending spirit of country-rock, Americana, and soul, makes for a track that feels like a long drive with the windows down—wide open, full of heart, and built to move.

“Roll” is more than just a song; it’s a feel-good anthem with a backbone. It’s about staying true to your path, even when the road gets rough. It’s about finding joy in the motion and freedom in the forward momentum. With Hurricane Heart, Ronny Criss proves he is an artist on the rise, one who possesses the classic instincts of a bygone era and the bold, genre-agnostic vision of the future. He’s a songwriter’s songwriter, a performer’s performer, and a musical force who is just beginning to let his wheels “Roll.” This track is a testament to that journey, and a thrilling invitation to join him on the road ahead.

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