By Grace Brennan Derbyshire

Nicolle Galyon might be best known in the country music industry as one of the most successful songwriters, penning hits for the likes of Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, and Morgan Wallen to name a few. However, many may not be aware that for the past 16 years Galyon has been married to fellow country music songwriter Rodney Clawson, who has collaborated with stars such as Kenny Chesney, Lady A, and Florida Georgia Line. Together, the couple wrote Galyon surprise EP, “second wife,” which was released on their 16th wedding anniversary.

Per the title, the EP’s six tracks give a glimpse into Galyon’s perspective of being the “second wife.” In the Instagram post sharing the news of the EP, Galyon stated, “the essence of second wife is that even the title itself is imperfect. that’s probably my favorite thing about being one. the illusions (and delusions) I had as a firstborn were gone once I became one.”

The EP kicks off with a brief, yet touching, song titled “Jo” that Galyon described as “an ode to my mother in law” in an Instagram post. Throughout the minute-long track, Galyon sings about the influence Clawson’s mother had on him, with the line, “You’re why he ain’t average Jo.” Galyon’s vocals are harmonized with Clawson’s,who backs the track.

The second track is one of the more upbeat on the album. “Prenup” is a fun, lighthearted, yet heartwarming track Galyon described as “a ditty about our finances,” or the couple’s decision to not have a prenup. Galyon sings the first verse and chorus while Clawson takes over the second verse and chorus.

Changing tone, the third track is an emotional ballad, featuring Galyon on piano, titled “the grain.” The song is about the couple’s sometimes unconventional decision and being happy despite going against the grain. As his second wife, Galyon details her internal thoughts in the acoustic song, “rooms.” The song is all about the fears and insecurities associated with being the second wife, whether it be based on her younger age or what she is wearing. In the chorus she comes to the conclusion that it all doesn’t matter she sings, “hey, f*** em all because I’m the one walking into rooms with you.”

The second-to-final track is more of a catchy pop-country song titled “texas hold em.’” The song pays tribute to Clawson’ Texas roots, while also showcasing the two’s ongoing love. In the chorus, Galyon sings “If you’re messing with one from Texas, you got to hold em’.“

The EP closes on a touching note, with the lullaby-sounding track ‘under the rainbow,’ which seemingly reflects on the couple’s decision process of making the move from Nashville to Galyon’s hometown in Kansas. Galyon adds her own unique twist to the sound of Judie Garland’s hit throughout the acoustic song featuring Clawson picking guitar. Within the lyrics, Galyon injects her own personal view of a quieter and small-town life in Kansas, which of course is “under the rainbow.”

In conclusion, ‘second wife‘ is all about embracing the beauty of life’s imperfections and being true to oneself. Throughout the EP, Galyon showcased her impeccable songwriting skills and love for the piano, while also paying homage to her marriage, family, and hometown. Despite making the move to Kansas, Galyon’s latest EP shows that she continues to be one of the strongest and most influential songwriters in Nashville’s music scene.