At a Glance
- 18 tracks in Act I showcase a blend of Southern sound, blues, and soulful hooks.
- Collaborations with Marcus King and Sierra Ferrell bring fresh dynamics to the project.
- Culpepper, a former U.S. military serviceman, recorded the album in the historic Muscle Shoals studios.
- Why it matters: The album marks a pivotal moment for an artist who rose from viral single After Me? to a full-length record that reflects his personal and musical evolution.
Kashus Culpepper’s debut album Act I is more than a collection of songs-it’s a snapshot of where the artist’s mind and heart are at this point in his life. The 18-track record, released across all major streaming platforms, weaves Southern roots with modern pop-rock sensibilities, all while staying true to the singer’s own voice.
From Viral Single to Full-Length Project
In 2024, Culpepper captured public attention with the single After Me?, sparking a viral frenzy that led to a conversation with News Of Los Angeles. The track’s success opened doors and set the stage for Act I.
- 2024: Viral single After Me?.
- 2024: First interview with News Of Los Angeles.
- 2025: Release of Act I (exact date not specified in the source).
Culpepper reflected on that early period: “I never thought that having a debut album and everything coming around it would happen,” he said. He credits the whirlwind two years-during which he received praise from Elton John, John Mayer, and Samuel L. Jackson-as a backdrop for the album’s creation.
Musical Influences and Recording Environment
The album’s core ethos draws heavily from old-school cinema and Southern heat. Culpepper’s love for film informs the linear music videos that accompany each track, giving listeners a cinematic experience.
He chose the legendary Muscle Shoals studios in Alabama to record, a location that has hosted icons like Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones. “Being a ‘Bama boy, and also the way my music is, it just felt right to do it in Muscle Shoals,” he explained. The studio’s energy pushed him to “go even harder” and “succeed and do this right.”
Collaborations That Define the Sound
| Track | Collaborator | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Man | Marcus King | Blues-rock fusion |
| Broken Wing Bird | Sierra Ferrell | Acoustic ballad |
| Rocket Man (mentioned in interview) | – | Southern soul |
Culpepper emphasized that each partnership showcases different facets of his artistry. He said, “I love acoustic stuff just as much as I love fully produced stuff. In this full record, people will see all the sides of me.”
The Artist’s Personal Narrative
A former U.S. military serviceman, Culpepper’s journey into music began later in life. He speaks of a “childlike sense of wonder” that keeps him grounded amid his meteoric rise. “I still feel like that kid who just loves music so much,” he noted.
He also highlights the importance of authenticity: “I’m not trying to sound like nobody. It’s just me. I’m just being authentic and just being myself.” This mantra runs through the album’s lyrics and production choices.
Track Highlights
- Act I – Intro – Sets the tone with a subtle blend of guitar and vocal harmonies.
- Southern Man – A high-energy collaboration with Marcus King that showcases bluesy riffs.
- Broken Wing Bird – A tender ballad with Sierra Ferrell, contrasting the album’s heavier tracks.
- Rocket Man – A nod to his Southern roots, featuring soulful hooks.
- After Me? (Reprise) – A reflective take on his viral hit.
Each track serves as a window into Culpepper’s mind, offering listeners an intimate look at his thoughts and emotions during this pivotal period.
Release and Reception
Act I is now available on all major streaming platforms. While the article does not detail chart performance, the album’s collaborative depth and personal storytelling suggest it will resonate with both new fans and longtime listeners.
Key Takeaways
- 18 tracks blend Southern sound, blues, and pop-rock.
- Collaborations with Marcus King and Sierra Ferrell add diverse textures.
- Recording in Muscle Shoals ties the album to a rich musical legacy.
- Culpepper’s authenticity and personal narrative drive the album’s core message.
For fans eager to explore Kashus Culpepper’s musical evolution, Act I offers a compelling and honest journey into his creative world.
