Viral Artist Oliver Anthony Releases New Album ‘Hymnal Of A Troubled Man’s Mind’

Oliver Anthony, the American singer-songwriter who captured hearts with his viral hit ‘Rich Men North Of Richmond’ last year, has now unveiled his debut album. Titled Hymnal Of A Troubled Man’s Mind, the album was independently released on Easter Sunday, March 31st. It’s a unique blend of country-folk tunes, featuring both previously released tracks and new compositions, all woven together with spoken-word Gospel passages.

Produced in collaboration with Dave Cobb, the album’s instrumental arrangements were recorded in a picturesque but dilapidated church in Savannah, Georgia. According to Anthony, whose real name is Christopher Anthony Lunsford, Hymnal Of A Troubled Man’s Mind serves as a musical memoir, chronicling his journey from 2013 to 2023.

In a statement, Anthony expressed his intention for listeners to experience the album as a cohesive narrative, urging them to immerse themselves in the songs from start to finish. He emphasized the significance of every lyric and note, describing the album as a sincere reflection of his heart and soul.

While Rich Men North of Richmond propelled Anthony into the limelight, this album marks a deeper exploration of his artistry. He sees it as the cornerstone upon which he’ll build his future musical endeavors. In a social media post, Anthony revealed that he chose to release the album on Easter Sunday as a gesture of gratitude for the grace he believes was extended to humanity through Jesus.

The Political Divide Surrounding a Viral Hit

The release of Hymnal Of A Troubled Man’s Mind comes after the whirlwind success and controversy surrounding Rich Men North of Richmond. The song’s lyrics provoked controversy despite making a record-breaking debut on the Billboard Hot 100 list because some people saw them as politically charged or fatphobic.

Anthony, a former farmer and industrial worker, explained that both left- and right-wing listeners misinterpreted the song’s meaning. He found amusement in the spectacle of the debate, suggesting that the song’s message was not meant to be weaponized for political agendas.

Since his breakout moment, Anthony has garnered praise from celebrities like Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and has shared the stage with bands like Papa Roach and Shinedown. With the release of Hymnal Of A Troubled Man’s Mind, Anthony invites listeners to join him on a musical journey that is both introspective and enlightening, promising more to come from his ever-evolving catalog of songs.