Marcus King continues to blaze a trail through the contemporary music scene, blending soulful blues, Southern rock, and country influences into a sound uniquely his own. As of June 2025, King and his band are riding a wave of new releases and high-profile performances. Their latest single, “Carolina Honey,” dropped on American Records/Republic Records, offering fans a heartfelt glimpse into King’s personal journey—a love story sparked after a show in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he met his wife, Briley, and found renewed hope and inspiration13. Alongside this musical milestone, King has been packing venues and festivals across the country, including a standout appearance at Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, just this week.
The Story Behind “Carolina Honey”
“Carolina Honey” is more than just another track—it’s a window into Marcus King’s soul. The song chronicles a transformative night for King, who had just about given up on happiness until fate intervened. After a show in Raleigh, Briley walked backstage, played Linda Ronstadt, and sang, instantly shifting King’s perspective. He describes the moment as the first time he felt real hope, someone he wanted to be his best self for, and someone he wanted to grow old with. The lyrics and melody capture both the ache of uncertainty and the joy of new beginnings, making it a standout in the band’s growing catalog13.
This release follows “Honky Tonk Hell,” another recent single that explores themes of sobriety and personal struggle, showing King’s willingness to bare his heart and mind through his music. Both tracks are part of a broader creative surge for the Marcus King Band, whose members have become known for their authenticity and emotional depth.
Marcus King Band: Touring, Festivals, and Community
Marcus King’s 2025 schedule is packed with major events and collaborations. He’s currently on the road with country heavyweights Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Eric Church, and Dwight Yoakam, bringing his signature guitar work and soulful vocals to arenas and amphitheaters nationwide. His recent performances at CMA Fest in Nashville, including a set at Nissan Stadium alongside Brooks & Dunn, have further cemented his reputation as a live powerhouse13.
This summer, fans can look forward to the return of the Marcus King Band Family Reunion Festival, now in its fourth year and making its debut in Charleston, South Carolina. The two-day event, scheduled for August 23-24 at Firefly Distillery, promises a stellar lineup featuring Jamey Johnson, Stephen Wilson Jr., Molly Tuttle, Hiss Golden Messenger, and more. The festival is more than just music—it’s a celebration of family, community, and the joy of shared experiences, with a portion of ticket sales supporting King’s charity, the Curfew Fellowship Fund, which aids those struggling with sobriety and addiction, and funds music education2.
Marcus King’s Musical Roots and Rise
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, and now based in Nashville, Marcus King started performing alongside his blues guitarist father at just eight years old. His solo debut, El Dorado (produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys), earned widespread acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album. He followed up with Young Blood (2022), which debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top Blues Albums chart, and Mood Swings (produced by Rick Rubin), praised for its daring vulnerability and open-heartedness36.
King’s ability to blend genres and tell deeply personal stories has made him a favorite among fans of blues, rock, and country alike. His live shows are legendary for their energy and emotion, and his recent collaborations—like his surprise pop-up set at Chief’s for SiriusXM and sitting in with Lukas Nelson—show his versatility and willingness to push creative boundaries13.
Why Marcus King Matters Now
In a music landscape often dominated by trends and algorithms, Marcus King stands out for his authenticity and willingness to share his struggles and triumphs. His latest singles, “Carolina Honey” and “Honky Tonk Hell,” are testaments to his growth as both an artist and a person. The Family Reunion Festival, with its focus on community and charity, reflects King’s commitment to giving back and fostering connection through music.
For fans of heartfelt storytelling, electrifying guitar work, and a sense of genuine community, Marcus King is an artist to watch—and listen to—now more than ever.
Don’t Miss Out: Experience Marcus King Live
If you haven’t caught a Marcus King show yet, now’s the time. With new music, a packed touring schedule, and a festival that feels like family, King is making waves across the country. Grab your tickets for the Family Reunion Festival in Charleston this August, stream “Carolina Honey” and “Honky Tonk Hell,” and join the growing community of fans who find inspiration in his music and story.