Country-Rock Band 49 Winchester Signs With MCA’s Lucille Records

MCA has signed country-rock band 49 Winchester to its Lucille Records imprint. On Friday (Nov. 7), the group will release its first new music since partnering with MCA: a cover of Black Sabbath‘s “Changes,” on which the group collaborated with MCA chief creative officer and Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb.

49 Winchester is currently in the studio with Cobb, crafting a full-length project slated for release next year. MCA will team up with New West Records on the upcoming album, while all subsequent 49 Winchester releases will be released exclusively through MCA.

With a lineup that includes Bus Shelton, Noah Patrick, Isaac Gibson, Justin Louthian, Tim Hall and Chase Chafin, 49 Winchester got its start in Virginia and has become known for songs including “Russell County Line” and “Everlasting Lover.” The group will headline two shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Nov. 14 and 15. In 2023, they were nominated for duo/group of the year at the Americana Honors & Awards ceremony.

“We’re thrilled to be joining the MCA and Lucille family,” Gibson, 49 Winchester’s lead vocalist and guitarist, said in a statement. “Working with Dave Cobb is a dream, and we can’t wait for our fans to hear the new music we’re creating together.”

Chase Chafin, 49 Winchester’s bassist and co-founder, added, “So grateful to the fans and team who helped us build this to where it is today. We couldn’t be more excited for MCA to be the home of future 49 Winchester releases, and to share this next chapter with those who made it possible.“

“We are so excited to have 49 Winchester join Lucille Records,” said Mike Harris, president & CEO of MCA, in a statement. “Their mix of Southern rock is powerful and authentic, and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to evolve.”

“In working with 49 Winchester it felt like they laid it all out on the line,” added Cobb. “The record is pure heart and honesty, a lotta heart, soul and love went into making this album.” 

“Watching 49 Winchester’s remarkable growth and success over the past several years has been incredibly rewarding,” said John Allen, president of New West Records. “Their achievements reflect the band’s extraordinary talent and relentless work ethic, as well as the dedication of everyone at New West. Partnering once again with my longtime friend Dave Cobb is always a pleasure, and MCA is the perfect home for 49 Winchester as we work together to reach even greater heights.”

In addition to 49 Winchester, Lucille’s roster includes Lamont Landers. In February, Cobb and Harris were named the new heads of UMG Nashville, which then rebranded as MCA.