Steve Martin and Alison Brown Announce New Collaborative Album, ‘Safe, Sensible and Sane’
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Los Angeles, CA – August 22, 2025 – GRAMMY Award-winning musicians Steve martin and Alison Brown are set to release their debut collaborative album, Safe, Sensible and Sane, on October 17 via Compass Records. The project features an impressive roster of guest artists, including Jackson Browne, Vince Gill, the Indigo Girls, Tim O’Brien, Jason Mraz, and Della Mae.
A New Chapter in Banjo Music
The forthcoming album represents a captivating evolution in banjo music, building upon the duo’s previous chart-topping collaborations such as “Foggy Morning Breaking,” “Bluegrass Radio,” and “Wall Guitar (As You Said Goodbye).” Safe, Sensible and Sane showcases Brown’s innovative melodies and Martin’s uniquely tender lyrics.
“Dear Time” – A Soulful New single
Martin and Brown today unveiled their new single, “Dear Time,” featuring Jackson Browne and Jeff Hanna.Penned by Martin with music by Martin and Brown, the song is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, blending humor and sincerity. Hanna, a former bandmate of Browne’s in the early Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, provides harmony vocals.
The music video for “Dear Time” was filmed at the historic Troubadour in Los Angeles, a venue pivotal to the careers of both Martin and Browne in the 1960s, and a significant performance space for Brown as an emerging bluegrass artist.
Did You Know?
The Troubadour has hosted legendary artists like elton John, James taylor, and Carole King during its storied history.
Album Tracklist & key Collaborations
| Track | Featuring |
|---|---|
| “Dear Time” | Jackson Browne, jeff Hanna |
| (Further track details to be announced) | Vince Gill, Indigo Girls, Tim O’Brien, Jason Mraz, Della Mae |
The collaboration between Martin and Brown highlights the enduring appeal of the banjo and its versatility across genres. As noted in a 2023 study by the american Folklore Society, the banjo’s past roots in African American musical traditions continue to influence contemporary artists [[1]].
This project builds on Martin’s ongoing advocacy for the banjo through the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, established to recognize remarkable talent in the genre.
Pro Tip:
Explore the Steve Martin Prize website to learn more about emerging banjo players and the instrument’s rich history.
What impact do you think this collaboration will have on the future of bluegrass and banjo music? And how does the Troubadour’s legacy contribute to the meaning of this release?
The enduring Legacy of the Banjo
The banjo, originating in Africa and evolving through its adoption in American musical traditions, has experienced periods of both widespread popularity and relative obscurity. Its resurgence in recent years, fueled by artists like Béla Fleck and now Steve Martin and Alison Brown, demonstrates its continued relevance and adaptability. The instrument’s unique sound and rhythmic capabilities make it a compelling force in contemporary music.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the release date of ‘Safe, Sensible and Sane’? the album is scheduled for release on October 17, 2025.
- Who are the featured artists on the album? The album includes collaborations with Jackson Browne, Vince Gill, the Indigo Girls, Tim O’Brien, Jason Mraz, and Della Mae.
- Where was the music video for “dear Time” filmed? The video was filmed at the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles.
- what is the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass? It’s an annual prize established by Steve Martin to recognize outstanding banjo and bluegrass musicians.
- What genre would you classify this album as? The album blends bluegrass, folk, and Americana influences, showcasing the versatility of the banjo.
We invite you to share this exciting news with your friends and fellow music lovers. Join the conversation and let us know what you think of this groundbreaking collaboration! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the latest music releases.
