Son of John are back with a brand-new release, and this time they’re going full country.
Their latest single, “Country Thing,” is a fun, fiddle-and-harmonica-driven track that leans further into the country sound than anything they’ve released before.
The father-son duo from British Columbia (made up of Johnny P. Johnson and Javan Johnson) have built a reputation in Canada’s alt-country and roots scene, blending family harmonies with stories that bridge generations. But with “Country Thing,” they’ve decided to tip their cowboy hats firmly toward country music while keeping their authentic Son of John style intact.
A Song Ten Years in the Making
“Country Thing” has been a long time coming. Johnny originally wrote the song about a decade ago, and he admits it’s not meant to be overly serious:
“It’s really not that deep … it’s just a song about a country boy meeting a city girl. The girl didn’t want anything to do with that ‘country thing,’ but like any good country boy he was irresistible, and she became countrified, trading in the Porsche for a big F-350.” – Johnny
The track has been a staple in their live shows since the beginning. Javan recalls seeing audiences instantly drawn to the dance floor when they performed it, even when it was just the two of them on stage.
Built for the Stage and Studio
Produced and mixed by John Ellis (Doc Walker, George Canyon, Colin James), “Country Thing” captures the duo’s live energy. The recording showcases both Johnny on harmonica and Javan on fiddle, making the studio version feel just as full as their stage performances.
With Ellis’s production and the band’s instrumentation, the song feels classic yet fresh — tailor-made for fans who love traditional country hooks with a modern twist.
Son of John’s Next Chapter
“Country Thing” follows their 2025 release “Jesus & Johnny Cash” and marks a new chapter for Son of John. Known for being “too country for folk, too folk for roots, and too roots for country,” the duo have never fit neatly into a single box. But this track is proof that leaning into their country side suits them perfectly.
In 2024, they opened for The Bellamy Brothers on their Western Canada tour, and in 2025 they were nominated for Album of the Year at the BC Country Music Awards. Their growing recognition reflects a sound that resonates across genres while staying rooted in family and authenticity.
As Javan puts it:
“Our first maybe true country song is what it is. We’re super proud of this track, and hope it resonates with the country music community.”
“Country Thing” is available now on all streaming platforms. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Son of John, this release is one to add to your playlist — just be warned, you might find yourself racing to the dancefloor too.
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
