Rising duo Thelma & James are back with a moody new release, “Chainsmokin Memories” — their third single since launching just five months ago.
Despite being newcomers, the married Nashville-based pair have already made a splash, amassing over one million monthly listeners across platforms. Their latest track continues to unfold the layers of their distinct sound, blending raw storytelling with a modern western flair.
A New Chapter with a Smokier Sound
“Going into our third song release we wanted to switch up the energy a little bit,” Thelma & James shared about the new single. “Bring the tempo up (just a little) but keep it honest and still sound like us.”
Originally sparked during a different songwriting session, the track was born from a powerful line: “chain smoking memories.” That vivid metaphor became the emotional heart of the song — one that paints a portrait of a love you know you should leave behind but can’t quite quit.
“It’s about knowing it’s not healthy to go back down memory lane with that person, but you can’t help it… just like an addiction,” they explain.
Listen to “Chainsmokin Memories”
Lyrical Addiction with a Western Edge
Co-written by MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge (the duo behind Thelma & James), alongside hitmakers Jordan Minton, Jordan Reynolds, and Parker Welling, “Chainsmokin Memories” leans into a smoky, nostalgic atmosphere with a subtle tempo lift.
Produced by Lonas, the track showcases the duo’s signature harmonies and emotionally rich delivery. The chorus lingers like a late-night confession:
Good God, it’s bittersweet
It’s like cinnamon and nicotine
And I don’t care if it’s killing me
Can’t stop chainsmokin’ memories
Building Momentum
“Chainsmokin Memories” follows the viral success of previous singles “Happy Ever After You” and “First Love,” which helped put Thelma & James on the map. Their breakout debut Happy Ever After You even caught the attention of artists like John Mayer, Luke Combs, and Brandi Carlile — not bad company to keep.
Signed to Big Loud Records in 2025, the duo continues to evolve, both musically and personally. Their partnership is as much about their marriage as it is about their shared passion for storytelling through song.
About Thelma & James
Thelma & James is the musical collaboration between married Nashville-based singer-songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge. Though both successful in their own right, the duo discovered a special spark when they finally teamed up in the writing room. Their first co-write in over a decade led to “Happy Ever After You,” a viral hit that earned praise from artists like John Mayer, Luke Combs, and Brandi Carlile, and has since racked up over 20 million streams.
With a sound rooted in raw emotion, rich harmonies, and modern storytelling, Thelma & James officially signed with Big Loud Records in 2025. Their catalogue now includes fan favourites “First Love” and “Chainsmokin Memories,” each showcasing a fresh blend of country, Americana, and pop influences. The pair continues to build momentum with plans for more new music and live performances, including an appearance at this year’s CMA Fest.
Andrew
A die-hard country music fan with an impressive collection of Spotify playlists. Happiest when I'm listening to music and constantly on the lookout for the next artist to fall in love with. A bit of a tech nerd too.
