Chicago-based Americana Band Releases Cover Single, Honoring the American Working Spirit
In the heart of Chicago, where the echoes of jazz and blues still reverberate through the streets, a new sound is emerging that pays homage to the roots of American music. Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks have just released their debut single, “Pastures of Plenty,” a masterful reimagining of Woody Guthrie’s iconic song. This release marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the band as they prepare to unveil their full-length album later this year. With a sound that blends the grit of old country, the soul of folk, and the twang of western swing, Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks are set to make their mark on the Americana music scene.
“Pastures of Plenty” is more than just a cover song; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the American working spirit and the vast landscapes that have shaped our nation’s history. The track, which dropped on May 6th on all digital platforms, runs for 3 minutes and 10 seconds, but in that short time, it manages to transport listeners across the dusty plains and sun-baked orchards of America’s heartland. Gina Marie’s earthy vocals breathe new life into Guthrie’s poignant lyrics, painting an image of the migrant workers’ struggles and triumphs.
As the song unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey through the American landscape, from the “hot dusty road” to the “orchards of peaches and prunes.” The lyrics speak of hard work and perseverance, of sleeping on the ground “in the light of the moon” and moving with the seasons “like dust in the wind.” But beneath the hardship, there’s a sense of pride and dignity in the work being done. The chorus rings out with a powerful declaration: “Green pastures of plenty from dry desert ground / From the Grand Coulee Dam where the waters run down / Every state in the Union us migrants have been / We’ll work in this fight and we’ll fight till we win.” It’s a testament to the resilience of the American spirit, beautifully captured in Gina Marie’s soulful delivery.
Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks is a group of seasoned musicians who have honed their craft through years of experience in various genres. Bandleader Gina Marie DeGregorio‘s musical journey is as diverse as the American soundscape itself. After years of touring with a pop rock band and overcoming a vocal injury, she found herself drawn to the rich tapestry of vintage music and dance communities across the country. Her experiences drumming for bluegrass, old country, rockabilly, and western swing acts, combined with her newfound love for early jazz, led to the formation of The Golden Bucks. The band’s unique sound is a result of this eclectic background, blending elements from various American musical traditions to create something fresh yet deeply rooted in history.
For those eager to experience more of Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks, there’s good news on the horizon. Their second single, “Where the Blue of the Night Meets the Gold of the Day,” is set to release soon. This track promises to showcase the band’s versatility, featuring fiddle work by Edgar Gabriel and dobro by John Rice, alongside Gina’s impressive three-part harmonies. Fans of live music will have the chance to catch the band in action this summer. Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks will be bringing their unique brand of Americana to the Lemont Farmer’s Market on August 13th, followed by a performance at Chicago’s Riverwalk on August 14th. These shows, along with their upcoming releases, promise to be a treat for anyone looking to experience the full breadth of American roots music, from folk and country to bluegrass and blues.
“Pastures of Plenty” is a powerful statement of intent from a band that’s deeply committed to preserving and reinventing the sounds of America’s musical past. By choosing to cover Woody Guthrie’s classic, Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks have positioned themselves as torchbearers for a rich musical tradition. Their ability to breathe new life into this timeless song speaks volumes about their talent and their understanding of what makes Americana music so enduring.
As we eagerly await the release of their full album, it’s clear that Gina Marie and the Golden Bucks are ready to stake their claim in the rich soil of American music. Their music serves as a reminder of the power of American roots music to speak to the human experience, to tell the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the American landscape.