Paste Magazine’s recent list of “The 10 best songs about Arkansas ever made” shines a spotlight on two Fayetteville musicians, Nick Shoulders and Dylan Earl. Shoulders’ 2018 track “Snakes & Waterfalls” landed at No. 7 on the list, while Earl’s 2023 song “I Saw the Arkansas” took the top spot.
The list, released on August 24, reflects a growing national interest in music that captures a sense of place, and in this case, Arkansas’ unique culture and landscape. Both Shoulders and Earl are active in Fayetteville’s music scene, known for its blend of Americana, country, and indie folk sounds.
Nick Shoulders, whose music blends traditional American string band styles with a modern edge, co-founded Gar Hole Records, a label with Fayetteville roots. His song “Snakes & Waterfalls” is emblematic of his style, combining sharp storytelling with a swagger that nods to both the Ozarks and wider Appalachian traditions.
Dylan Earl, meanwhile, has been gaining traction locally and beyond with “I Saw the Arkansas,” a track that captures a personal and lyrical view of the state’s rivers and natural beauty. This song’s No. 1 ranking by Paste Magazine is a notable achievement for the Fayetteville musician and points to a wider appreciation of Arkansas-inspired songwriting.
Paste Magazine’s series ranking the best songs about each state aims to highlight artists who offer more than just surface-level references. In the case of Arkansas, it underscores an authenticity present in Shoulders’ and Earl’s work that resonates with both local listeners and national audiences.
Fayetteville’s role as a nurturing ground for this music isn’t new. The city’s venues, record shops, and creative community have long supported artists who draw from the South’s complicated history and natural beauty. The inclusion of these musicians in a national spotlight may also invite more music lovers to see Fayetteville as a hub for Arkansas’s contemporary cultural expression.
Both artists are continuing to record and perform in Northwest Arkansas. Their presence on this list is a reminder that Fayetteville’s music scene remains vibrant, producing songs with a sense of place that honors where they come from.
Source: Fayetteville Flyer
