A long-time favourite here at Rockshot Magazine, American singer-songwriter Lissie makes a welcome return with her forthcoming EP Promises, set for release on 22nd August via Lionboy Records. The six-track collection, composed entirely of lovingly chosen cover songs, is her first full release since 2022’s introspective Carving Canyons. With Promises, Lissie steps into a new chapter—one shaped by love, reflection, and emotional transformation—through the timeless lens of other artists’ words and melodies.
Lissie
“I wanted to put together a collection of songs that reflect where I am in life right now,” Lissie explains. “We all go through phases and stages, and music is such a gift for processing life events. These are songs that hold meaning for me—songs that feel like promises kept, or even hopes held onto.” The first single from Promises is a soul-stirring rendition of The Pretenders’ classic I’ll Stand By You, released today alongside a fan-submitted music video. For Lissie, this cover holds deeply personal meaning: “I sang I’ll Stand By You to my husband, Mike, at our wedding reception, so it’s taken on such a special significance. It always makes me think about the promise I made that day.”
The accompanying video is a touching montage compiled from submissions sent in by Lissie’s fans, capturing love in its many forms—romantic partners, parents with children, old friends reunited, pets, moments of laughter, and even solemn farewells. It’s capped by an emotional glimpse into Lissie’s own wedding day, making the tribute feel both universal and uniquely hers.
The warmth and resonance of her voice breathe new emotional depth into the classic track, highlighting Lissie’s unique gift for drawing intimacy from the familiar. It’s an early indication that Promises will be more than just a covers project—it’s a love letter to the music that’s carried her through life’s most important moments.
The Promises EP is woven around the theme of commitment, love, and enduring connection. Each song is chosen not just for its recognisable melody, but for the way it aligns with Lissie’s emotional landscape today. Standouts include:
- Forever Young (Alphaville): Performed at her wedding by her niece during Lissie’s dance with her father, this cover is drenched in nostalgia and hope.
- Eternal Flame (The Bangles): A fan favourite from her Jo Whiley session on BBC Radio 2, Lissie’s version is haunting and tender.
- Everywhere (Fleetwood Mac): Reimagined with shimmering harmonies and rootsy instrumentation, Lissie brings a heartfelt freshness to the beloved pop anthem.
- America (Simon & Garfunkel): An ode to the search for meaning and belonging, Lissie’s version is poignant and stripped back.
- Just Make It Stop (Low): A slower, more meditative moment that provides a counterpoint to the brightness of the other tracks, showcasing Lissie’s depth as an interpreter.
Each song on Promises resonates with moments from Lissie’s personal life, transforming familiar tracks into deeply intimate reflections on love, loss, and the ever-changing currents of life.
Lissie @ Koko
Since her breakout debut Catching A Tiger in 2010, which drew comparisons to Stevie Nicks, Hope Sandoval, and Bobbie Gentry, Lissie has carved a path that resists easy categorisation. Her blend of folk, Americana, and alternative pop has been certified Gold, seen multiple chart successes, and drawn praise from BBC, which once heralded her as “one of the greatest female vocalists of a generation.”
Lissie’s rich, emotive voice and candid storytelling have long earned her a devoted following—and Rockshot Magazine has proudly been among her most vocal champions. Whether performing at iconic venues or living a quiet life on her 45-acre farm in northeast Iowa, Lissie continues to lead with authenticity and grounded grace.
Outside her music career, Lissie made waves with a memorable performance of Wild West in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks: The Return and appeared as a fictional version of herself in the cult series Loudermilk.
While Promises is her first studio release in two years, Lissie hasn’t been away from the stage. This summer, she’ll hit select dates in North America, interspersed with festival appearances in Norway, bringing these reimagined tracks to life with her unmistakable live energy and warmth. For those lucky enough to catch her on tour, expect stripped-back renditions, emotional storytelling, and a front-row seat to an artist who continues to evolve, reflect, and resonate.
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