Story Behind The Song

The Story Behind "The Craft" - Written by Shawn Ash & CJ Solar Lately, I've been sharing a lot of original songs--most of which I had the honor of co-writing with my good buddy, CJ Solar, back in the day. I've also written a few solo ones like "Through It All," "Anywhere," "So Beautiful," and "Who's Gonna Rock Your Country Tonight." Every one of these songs, whether co-written or written by me alone, was created the old-fashioned way--no AI, no shortcuts, just real songwriting. This next one, "The Craft," holds a special place in my heart. With the exception of removing two lines from the third verse, this song has stayed exactly as CJ and I wrote it one afternoon at his place in Nashville in 2010. The idea came from my buddy, Doug Gibbs, who once told me, "Since you dropped 'Craft' from your last name to go by Shawn Ash, you oughta write a song called 'The Craft.' After all, writing is a craft." So I brought the title to CJ, and 45 minutes later, we had it written and recorded as an acoustic demo. One of the fastest and most meaningful songs I've ever been a part of.

Song Description

"The Craft" is a compelling country song co-written with CJ Solar that delves deep into the art and passion behind living life on your own terms. Rooted in outlaw country traditions, the song combines vivid storytelling with rich, soulful melodies that evoke both struggle and perseverance. With heartfelt lyrics reflecting real-life experiences, "The Craft" captures the grit, resilience, and determination required to chase dreams despite life's obstacles. This track balances raw emotion with polished musicianship, making it a standout for fans who appreciate authentic country music that touches the soul. Ideal for radio play, sync licensing, and live performances, "The Craft" is a musical journey through the highs and lows of the human spirit told through the lens of Americana and country roots.

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Late one hot, summer night
I saw a broke down bar, off 75
12 dollars to my name, and down on my luck
So I grabbed my 6 string, and parked my truck

[Verse 2]
Bartender asked son, what'll it be
I told him, Jack straight up, and a gig for me
He said what do you play
I told him, country music, gets me through the day
He pointed to the corner said there's your Man

[Bridge Chorus]
His eyes were bloodshot and wide
Fingers calloused, cracked, and dried
An unlit cigarette, dangled from his lips
His voice a rasp, he said son, answer me this

[Raised Chorus 1]
Can ya play all night while you tie one on
Have you lived in the shadows, with everything gone
Do you wear your heart, right there, on your sleeve
Had the woman you love pick up and leave
Do you do it for the money or cuz it sets you free
Can you put the words right where they belong
Cuz that's The Craft of writing a country song

Hmmmmmhhhhhmmmmm........

[Verse 3]
Smoke and beer hit me like a wall
A still in the corner pure grain alcohol
I sat down on that stool and picked my tune
Played out a rhythm bout' a girl named June

[Verse 4]
When I finished I heard the crowd sigh
That old man in the corner had tears in his eyes
He lit that cigarette dangling from his lips
Drew in his last breath and took his last sip

[Bridge chorus]
His eyes were bloodshot and wide
Fingers calloused, cracked, and dried
That Lit cigarette dangled from his lips
His voice a rasp, he said son...You have a hit

[Raised Chorus 2]
Cuz you can play all night, while you tie one on
You've lived in the shadows, with everything gone
You wear your heart, right there, on your sleeve
Had the woman you love pick up and leave
You don't do it for the money cuz it sets you free
You can put the words right where they belong
Cuz you've got the craft of writin' a country song

[Instrumental]

[Spoken]
Now that's a country song