Billie Jo Jones Turns Up the Heat with Bold New Single “Flame”

With a voice as fiery as her lyrics and a spirit rooted deep in classic country tradition, Billie Jo Jones is proving she’s not just a spark — she’s the whole damn flame. Following the breakout success of “Who’s Tequila Are You Drinking,” the Texas-born singer-songwriter returns with her bold new single “Flame,” a modern-day answer to “Jolene” that trades pleading for power.

Below, Jones opens up about the real-life inspiration behind the song, her love for country legends like Loretta Lynn and Ray Price, and what fans can expect from her forthcoming album. Whether she’s honoring her roots or pushing boundaries, one thing’s for sure — Billie Jo Jones isn’t playing games.

To purchase/stream: orcd.co/billiejojonesflame

“Flame” is such a bold, unapologetic anthem. What was going through your mind when you wrote it, and how much of it is drawn from real life?

When I was writing it, I was really interested in making it a strong woman’s song like Loretta Lynn’s “Fist City” but memorable like Dolly’s “Jolene.” It’s about acknowledging a powerful attraction without necessarily apologizing for it. This has happened to me where a woman tried to take my man before, and it’s exactly how I acted when she did. I definitely put her in her place.

You’ve mentioned that Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” helped spark the idea behind this song. How do you see “Flame” as your response or modern-day twist on that classic storyline? 

“Jolene “is more of a pleading song, and with ”Flame,” I wanted to flip that a bit. Instead of begging, it’s more of a direct, almost challenging acknowledgment of the pull. Where “Jolene” is a plea, “Flame” is knowing what you have and standing your ground. It’s about owning that intensity rather than being threatened by it.

Your music blends traditional country storytelling with a fresh, sassy edge. How do you strike that balance between honoring classic influences like Ray Price and carving out your own sound?

For me, it’s about having a deep respect for the foundations of country music – the honest storytelling, heartbreak, and classic love songs. Artists like Ray Price and George Jones painted such vivid pictures with such sincerity, and that’s something I always want to carry forward in my songwriting.

The ‘sassy edge,’ as you put it, comes from wanting to tell those stories through my own lens but with a contemporary perspective. I’m a traditional country artist mixed with a little modern flair, and I absolutely love combining the two!

You’ve hit #1 on Amazon with “Who’s Tequila Are You Drinking,” and now your new single “Flame” is burning up the scene. What’s it been like watching your audience grow and rally behind these songs?

It’s honestly been incredible and a little surreal! Seeing “Who’s Tequila Are You Drinking” connect with people like that on Amazon was such a rush, and now to feel that same energy building around “Flame” is just…WOW!!!!

It tells me that these feelings and experiences resonate, and that’s the ultimate goal as a songwriter. It’s like finding your people, you know? Every new listener, every message, every time someone sings along at a show – it just fuels the fire even more. It makes all the hard work feel so worthwhile, knowing these songs are finding their place and connecting with folks.

With “Flame” as the first taste of your upcoming album, what can fans expect from the rest of the project? Are there any other songs that come from such personal or fiery places? 

“Flame” definitely sets a tone in terms of its boldness and emotional intensity, and you can expect to hear more of that raw honesty throughout the album.

There are definitely other songs that come from very personal and, yes, fiery places. Some songs might lean into a more vulnerable side, while others have that same kind of unapologetic energy you hear in “Flame.” I think the album as a whole paints a pretty complete picture of where I’m at right now, both musically and emotionally. You’ll hear some classic country storytelling, but also with that same spark you’ve picked up on. I’m really excited for everyone to hear the full album!

Billie Jo Jones On Tour:

Lyrics For “Flame”

I can tell that you think
You’re gonna take my man
You think your grass is greener
But let me help you understand
I can see right through your thievin’ ways
I put that ring on his left hand

You’re a master of deception
A champion of lies
You won’t catch him lookin’ around
He stays lost in my eyes
If you want to push this thing
I can cut you down to size

Let me tell ya
He ain’t lookin’ at you honey
And I’m the one to blame
You think you’ve got what it takes
But I’m his every-thang
I’m here playin’ for keeps
You’re just playin’ games
Honey I’m more than just a spark
I’m the whole damn flame

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