The latest album from Miranda Lambert brings a personal touch, with her family playing a key role. Released on September 13, Postcards from Texas is Lambert’s ninth major-label album, and it includes a special contribution from her husband, Brendan McLoughlin.
Together with frequent collaborator Jon Randall, Lambert and McLoughlin, 32, co-wrote the track “Dammit Randy.” Reflecting on their songwriting journey, Lambert explained to PEOPLE how the process started during the pandemic lockdown. “We were writing songs and baking cookies to pass the time, and he turned out to be pretty good at it.”
Miranda Lambert reflects on McLoughlin’s songwriting journey, saying it reminded her of the vulnerability in music
As work on Postcards from Texas progressed, Lambert recalls how McLoughlin became increasingly involved. “Jon Randall picked up a guitar, and as usual, we started writing a song. Brendan was nearby and kept chiming in, so I finally said, ‘If you’re going to help, turn off that football game and get serious.’ He did, and now he’s co-written a few songs with me.”
“Dammit Randy” marks their first released collaboration, born naturally from shared experiences. Lambert added, “Writing about something personal with someone who lives it with you makes for an authentic song, and he was the perfect partner for this.”
When asked if McLoughlin might pursue a career in Nashville, Lambert jokingly said, “The real test will be if he can handle writing without me. So, we’ll see how that goes.” She also shared her pride in his contribution, saying, “It’s been fun, and I’m really proud of what he’s done.”
The experience of watching her husband learn songwriting brought Lambert back to the fundamentals. “It reminded me that songwriting is not easy; it’s about being vulnerable and putting your heart out there,” Lambert noted. “Seeing him go through that process was really cool.”
In addition to working with her husband, Lambert returned to her roots by recording the album in Texas, her first time doing so in 22 years. “It feels like coming full circle, like going home to start a new chapter.”
Her work on Postcards from Texas also honors the legacy of Texas’ country music legends. Lambert explained, “Artists like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings started a movement rooted in truth-telling and being themselves. They weren’t accepted elsewhere, but they were embraced at home, and that’s where the Texas pride comes in.”
While she doesn’t label herself an outlaw, Lambert emphasized her dedication to authenticity. “I’ve always believed in staying true to myself, even when it’s been tough,” she reflected. “And I still hold on to that belief.”
