Square One

Mark Newton has announced his new single, "Square One," a soulful ballad that delves into the depths of personal struggle and resilience. It is available to radio programmers today and will be digitally released in October.

"Square One" songwriter Kenny Thacker said, "You know, there are a whole lot of folks that have had to go back to square one in some way or another. That sure is true for Mark. I wrote this song, 'Square One,' because I was inspired by Mark and a few other friends who have been through some major curves they didn't see coming in the last few years. Mark sings the fire out of this song because he's lived it. It's coming right out of his heart. The honesty in his voice is what's going to hit your soul when you hear this. I hope it resonates with you too. My hope is that it sparks hope in you. I don't know if Mark chose this song or if it chose him, but either way, I'm thrilled he's cut it, and I think you will connect with it big time and love it.

Many of Mark's fellow artists have gotten a preview of the song, and the accolades keep pouring in. Sierra Hull exclaimed, "I've been a Mark Newton fan since I first met him and got to play some music with him as a teenager. It's been inspiring to watch him navigate his health challenges of the last few years with such grace. To be on the other side of such a journey now with the release of the deeply inspired 'Square One' is a beautiful thing to witness. If this is any indication of more to come, then we are all in for a treat!"

Radio programmers are already singing Mark's praises. Terry Herd (Bluegrass Planet Radio and Bluegrass Today CEO) explains. "I've known Mark for nearly 30 years and admired his incredible determination to succeed in every single endeavor he embarks on. Many of us are familiar with his recent health challenges, and true to form, Mark prevailed – at times against all odds. He's now back in full swing with a new single that not only proves that statement but tells the poignant story of where he finds himself now after being away from the music scene for many years, Back At Square One.

Musicians on the track include Mark Newton (lead vocal), Clay Hess (rhythm & lead guitar, and baritone vocal), John Wheat (banjo), Darrell Turnbull(mandolin chop & lead and tenor vocal), and Brennan Hess (bass). "Square One" was produced, mixed, and mastered by Clay Hess at Back Forty Studio with Darrell Turnbull as assistant engineer.

"This song, 'Square One,' immediately resonated with me," shared Newton. "As artists, we all hope to have a song that allows us to express our true emotions. I've lived this song, and I'm thrilled to reconnect with the music that I was born and raised on and love. Many of us can relate to this; some days it seems like we're starting back at 'Square One.' Every day is truly a gift."

Terry Herd summarizes this new release by saying, "Honestly, square one is the place Mark has always launched any new project. I say that because he never takes anything or anyone for granted. Even with years of experience and numerous accolades to his credit, he's always started each new endeavor with a clean slate, unencumbered by past successes and challenges.