Folk artist Woodbine has released their first single “Pine Warbler.” We get sent a lot of music and so much of it is fantastic but this song made us stop in our tracks and focus completely on what was happening. The beautiful mix of acoustic and strings start things off and create a canvas for vocalist Brittany McGuire to sing a stunning melody. Everything about this track is perfection. We are excited to present our interview with them and their song below. Check out Woodbine on Facebook and Instagram.
BB: “Woodbine” is a very evocative name. What’s the story behind it, and how does it connect to your band’s identity? And tell us about who comprises Woodbine.
Thank you so much! Woodbine is a type of vine that grows wild here in West Virginia. It weaves itself into the landscape, strong yet flexible. That felt like a fitting name for our band because our music is deeply rooted in Appalachia, in its stories, its beauty, and its resilience.
Photo by Saja Montague
The band is comprised of Brittany McGuire vocals & guitar, Jeremiah Hatfield on guitar & vocals, Lily Moore does violin & vocals and Nick Blake on bass.
BB: How did Woodbine come together? What were the key musical influences or experiences that brought you all to start playing together in West Virginia?
Woodbine started with Jeremiah and I (Brittany) playing as a duo, but after a while, we realized squeezing both our full names onto a show flyer was getting tricky. That’s when we decided we needed a name that felt true to the music we were making. Around the same time, we were writing originals that we imagined as full and layered. That’s where Nick and Lily came in. Nick’s upright bass gave everything a solid foundation, and Lily’s violin and vocal harmony brought a beautiful and expressive energy to the songs.
BB: West Virginia has a rich musical heritage. How do you feel your band fits into, or perhaps pushes against, the existing music scene here?
We’re deeply inspired by Appalachian music and the storytelling that’s been passed down through generations in West Virginia. There’s something so hauntingly beautiful about the honesty and soul of Appalachian music that really resonates with us. At the same time, we bring in a blend of indie, jazz, and blues influence.
BB: How would you describe Woodbine’s sound to someone who’s never heard you before? Are there any specific genres or artists that you draw inspiration from?
We strive for honest songwriting, with acoustic instruments and harmonies that give our music a warm, full, and natural sound. Like an earthy ambience. You can hear influences from artists like Gregory Alan Isakov, David Rawlings, Gillian Welch, and Emmylou Harris in our sound. We’re particularly inspired by the stunning, lush arrangements Gregory Alan Isakov creates for his songs.
BB: What’s your songwriting process like? Do you have a primary songwriter, or is it a collaborative effort?
I usually come up with the lyrics and basic chord structures first, then bring it to the rest of the band. From there, I let their beautiful, creative brains take over and see what they come up with. It’s always a collaborative effort, and I love how everyone adds their own unique touch to the songs.
BB: What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I love this question!! I really just want listeners to feel something—whether it’s happiness, comfort, or a sense of being seen and understood. I hope our music can bring a sense of calm and connection to others. If it makes people feel a little more at ease or uplifted, that would mean the world to me.
BB: What are some of your favorite venues or places to play in West Virginia? How important is the local music community to Woodbine?
Folklore Music Exchange is such a magical venue. They’ve created a space where people come to really listen to the music, not just hear it. It’s a musician’s dream. It’s the kind of venue that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
We also love playing at Charlie’s Pub, Taylor Books, Southside Junction Taphouse, and Fife Street Brewing.
The music community in West Virginia is so important to us. There’s a deep sense of connection here, and we feel honored to be part of it. The way people support and celebrate each other is truly something special.
BB: You’re going on almost a year of being a band. What challenges do you face as a newer band in West Virginia, and what opportunities do you see?
We’ve all played in different bands and musical projects over the years, so we’ve had the chance to build relationships within the West Virginia music community. That’s been really helpful as we continue to grow, and it’s exciting to be part of the music community here.
BB: You all are putting out your first single “Pine Warbler” today, Friday March, 14th. What can you tell us about this song and what do you hope it conveys?
“Pine Warbler” reflects on the value of time and finding comfort when it feels like time has been wasted. It’s a love letter to the healing power of nature in our beautiful state, reminding us that even the moments we think are wasted can help us learn where we want to be. I hope it offers some comfort to anyone who feels like time is slipping away.
BB: If you could have any West Virginia musical artist, past or present, share the stage with you, who would it be, and why?
It might seem like the obvious answer, but I have to say Bill Withers. He was an amazing songwriter and performer. I admire his ability to write such timeless and relatable songs. I’ve watched several interviews with him, and he just seems like such a genuinely wonderful person to be around. His authenticity and warmth really shine through.
Check out “Pine Warbler” below
