Maggie Rose’s 2024 has been a year of milestones. Her latest album, No One Gets Out Alive, released in April of this year, earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Americana Album, and she recently shared even more joyful news: she and her husband Austin are expecting their first child in April, as announced through People. Yet, in true Maggie fashion, she remains reflective, rooted in gratitude, and ready for whatever comes next.
“It’s been a really exciting year—lots of personal and professional developments—life is full of surprises, Maggie shared. “When I heard about the GRAMMY nomination, I was on a hike in the woods at Shelby Park. I knew the nominations were being streamed, but I told myself, ‘Just enjoy this morning, and it’ll be there when you get back.’ Then my phone started blowing up. It was wonderful to get that validation—especially for the whole album.”
That album—an ambitious and cinematic journey—has breathed new life into Maggie’s already storied career. Not confined to any one genre, it’s an offering that feels timeless and deeply personal. Themes of resilience, gratitude, and moving forward without closure resonate across the record. “I think we talk ourselves out of big dreams, waiting for everything to be perfect,” she explained. “But life doesn’t work that way. You just have to go for it and take advantage of the time you have.”
It’s that fearless spirit that defines Maggie Rose’s music and career. Her journey hasn’t been without obstacles. At one point, the record’s release felt uncertain—unexpected label changes added twists to the story. Yet Maggie pushed forward. “This album was something I had to make for myself. It was cathartic,” she admitted. “The journey wasn’t always smooth, but those challenges make this moment even sweeter.”
From the very beginning, Maggie’s vision for the album was clear. The songs came together in just six months—“Mad Love” being the exception, a song that had been waiting for its moment. “It has this big Tarantino feel,” Maggie described, hinting at the dramatic flair that threads through much of the record.
Maggie and producer Ben Tanner built the album piece by piece, enlisting an impressive ensemble: two members of Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit (guitarist Sadler Vaden and drummer Chad Gamble), keyboardist Peter Levin (Amanda Shires, Gregg Allman), bassist Zac Cockrell (Alabama Shakes), keyboardist Kaitlyn Connor, guitarist Kyle Lewis from her own band, and the Fame’s Orchestra Project in Macedonia. Conductor Don Hart (Phish, Lyle Lovett) oversaw the arrangements and composed lush strings. GRAMMY-nominated audio engineer Bobby Holland mixed the album.
“There were moments when I wondered, ‘Are we getting ahead of ourselves?’” she laughed. “But everyone rallied around me. They reminded me this record was about painting a big picture—swinging for the fences. So we went for it.” She added, “I had to make this record for me and not because I had a label at the time telling me that I needed to deliver something. This was cathartic for me to create and to share with people.”
Maggie’s commitment to creating something grand carried into her live performances as well. Her Live from The Caverns video series brought the songs to life in a setting that felt as dramatic as the music itself. “The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee—it’s an actual cave,” Maggie said. “We shot these live versions in that eerie, underground space, and the visuals turned out beautifully. It’s such a unique environment, and it gave the music another layer of depth.”
Her artistry extends beyond the studio and stage. Maggie’s podcast, Salute the Songbirds, now in its fourth season, has also evolved. Initially born out of the pandemic, the show has transformed into a live experience featuring performances alongside candid conversations. “I open with a few songs of my own, talk with my guest, and we close with their music,” she said. “It’s a celebration of musicians, of artistry, and of connection.”
This desire for connection and authenticity is at the heart of everything Maggie does. Even when asked about her guitars—her cherished Gibson Hummingbird and J-200—her reverence for their craft shines through. “I love how the Hummingbird handles on tour,” she said. “It’s aging beautifully, like we all hope to.”
Maggie’s humility and perspective have been shaped by the highs and lows of her journey. From GRAMMY nods to new music collaborations, she approaches it all with an open heart and unwavering drive. As she looks toward the future—tours with Melissa Etheridge and Lisa Loeb, the 30A Songwriters Festival, and new material already in the works—Maggie remains a force of nature, moving forward with intention and joy.
“I hope this album gives people a break from the craziness of the world,” she said thoughtfully. “Maybe it encourages them to go after something they’ve been putting off—to appreciate life’s moments, big and small.”
As our call came to a close, it was clear that Maggie Rose’s story is far from over. With her music, her message, and her indomitable spirit, she’s blazing ahead—one bold step at a time. On her career, Maggie added, “I think you’re rewarded if you do what you love authentically.
For now, Maggie’s voice lingers like the songs she’s crafted—beautiful, resilient, and timeless.
For more information on No One Gets Out Alive recording and co-writers, visit MaggieRose.com
