Innocent Heart

Legendary singer/songwriter Jim Lauderdale joins forces with The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys on “Innocent Heart,” a poignant track from their album The Birds Know. The single is available now to bluegrass radio via Get It Played.

“Innocent Heart” shines a light on the goodness and vulnerability that can exist even in the midst of hardship. Through a series of moving stories, the song introduces a young boy waiting for his mother and father to come home, a young woman far from her mountain home and facing an unfamiliar city, and finally a broader call for people to come together and help those in need.

At the heart of each story is the song’s recurring prayer: “Lord please protect, keep safe and guide.” What begins as a plea for individual protection grows into a message of compassion and community, ultimately reminding listeners that innocence and goodness can remain even in difficult circumstances.
The song closes with a powerful reflection: “somewhere within the darkness and trouble, we have an innocent heart.” It is a fitting summation of a song that asks listeners to recognize the humanity in others and to extend a helping hand when it is needed most.

“This is a song I wrote the night before going into the studio with the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, says Lauderdale. I had it tailor-made for them in the Ralph Stanley tradition.”

Lauderdale’s deeply expressive songwriting and compelling vocal is complemented by the driving traditional bluegrass sound of The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys and “Innocent Heart” showcases the musical connection between Lauderdale and The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys.