Charles Wesley Godwin
featuring Luke Combs
“Better That Way”
Big Loud Records
May 15, Charles Wesley Godwin released the new single “Better That Way,” featuring Luke Combs, from the upcoming album Christian Name, due out July 24. The song was written by Godwin, longtime producer and lead guitarist Al Torrence, and veteran songwriter Scooter Carusoe, who also co-wrote three additional tracks on the upcoming album. Carusoe, whose songwriting career now spans more than two decades, has had his songs recorded by artists ranging from Taylor Swift to Kenny Chesney, and his influence blends effortlessly with the creative chemistry of Torrence and Godwin.
“Better That Way” features Godwin and Combs trading verses before joining together on the final chorus as Godwin’s longtime band, The Allegheny High, lends its signature musical expertise throughout the song. Godwin’s authenticity has always been one of his greatest strengths, not just vocally, but in the fact that he sings what he knows and has lived. His West Virginia upbringing and deep family roots continue to shine through both his lyrics and the quiet sincerity of his character.
The addition of Luke Combs brings another layer of weight to the track, not only through the rich timbre of his voice but also through the natural chemistry and shared sense of grassroots authenticity between the two artists. Rather than feeling like a feature added for commercial appeal, the collaboration feels more akin to two like-minded artists singing something they both believe in. It’s steeped in the spirit of Willie and Waylon, and these two are carrying that torch forward in every way that matters.
Alongside Godwin and Combs on vocals, the track features Joe Pinchotti on drums and percussion, Max Somerville on piano and acoustic guitar, Nate Catanzarite on bass, and Amico Demuzio on steel guitar, while Al Torrence contributes electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keyboards, Hammond organ, and background vocals. Eric James adds electric and 12-string acoustic guitar work that further deepens the song’s rich Americana sound.
Produced, mixed, and engineered by Al Torrence, “Better That Way” carries the warm, lived-in sonic character that has become synonymous with Charles Wesley Godwin’s work. If this single is any indication of what’s coming on Christian Name, I look forward to sitting down at my turntable and listening to another record that reminds listeners why authenticity still matters in country and Americana music.
“Better That Way” is now available on your favorite streaming service, with the full album now available for pre-order ahead of the July 24 release date.
