Collin Raye, known for his storytelling, has made a name for himself with songs like "Little Rock" and "Love, Me." His new album "Scars" explores a fresh musical direction, with Raye writing most of the songs on the 14-track album. He's joined by artists like Miranda Lambert, Vince Gill, and Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys.

"Scars" marks Raye's first album of new music in over a decade, produced by David “Fergie” Ferguson. It features a bold mix of songs, blending familiar sounds with new elements, with Ferguson ensuring all songs were written by Raye. This marks a creative peak in Raye's career.

Raye wrote 12 of the 14 tracks, with his brother Scotty Wray writing the other two. This album is deeply personal, showcasing Raye's significant involvement in songwriting, a departure from his earlier work. Raye reflects on this as one of his most creative periods.

Since signing with Epic Records in 1990, Raye has placed over 30 singles on the chart, including No. 1 hits like “Love, Me” and “I Can Still Feel You.” His debut album, "All I Can Be," went platinum in the U.S., and hits like “Little Red Rodeo” and “That’s My Story” have kept him touring until the pandemic.

In "Scars," Raye collaborates with Auerbach, adding signature guitar licks. "Dancing Alone in the Street," inspired by a homeless man, reflects Raye's ambition to create impactful songs. The song's lyrics draw from Raye's memories of moving to Oregon with his brother.

The album's title track, written by Raye's brother Scotty and Tony Ramey, features Miranda Lambert. Scotty, who retired due to heart problems, has been a long-time collaborator with Lambert, who eagerly recorded "Scars" with Raye after years of performing it live.

"Rock ’n’ Roll Bone" reflects on Raye and his brother's early music influences in DeQueen, Arkansas, and how attending a Foghat concert at age 13 impacted his passion for music. Despite his reputation for ballads, Raye emphasizes his energetic performance style, crediting his rock and roll influences.

The album includes collaborations with Raye's children, Britanny and Jacob, on songs "Never Going Back There Again" and "Chasing Renee," the latter inspired by Jacob's unrequited love. "Rodeo Girl," a western swing track with Vince Gill, and the closing song, “Mama Sure Could Sing,” co-written with his brother Scotty, pay tribute to their mother's musical talent, ending the album with a family homage.