Rachel Swain hits the ground running with first full-length solo album

About this episode

Rachel Swain discusses her debut solo album and her journey as a musician and mother.

One of the Americana voices out of Chicago that you’ve heard Frank talk about on Roots Music Rambler drops her first full-length solo album today (Friday, May 29, 2026). So you know we’re going to talk to her, right? Rachel Swain’s Neon Lullaby is out and features a solid mix of the sounds that define Americana music. She brings plenty of country influence with a hint of rock and a touch of blues, has brilliantly written lyrics, a banger of a band to back her up, and even accompaniment from some other names in the Chicago Americana scene. Rachel joined Frank and Falls on Roots Music Rambler to talk to us about the album, her music and life journeys from Texas to Chicago, motherhood, and how she balances being a singer-songwriter, mom, wife, and full-time school teacher. In addition to all of that, Swain also plays in a country band with her dad. Also on this episode, Frank and Falls list the current musicians they think would be a good hang. You might be surprised who they chose. And of course, both share new Pickin’ the Grinnin’ choices this week. Colter Wall gets a supportive nod after his announcement he’s taking a break from touring for his mental health. Colton Bowlin is a…

People in this episode

Hosts: Francesca Folinazzo, Jason Falls

Guest: Rachel Swain

Topics covered

• Americana music
• music journey
• motherhood
• singer-songwriter
• Chicago music scene

Keywords

• Rachel Swain
• Neon Lullaby
• Americana
• Chicago
• singer-songwriter
• Colter Wall
• Colton Bowlin

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Neon Lullaby

Places: Chicago, Texas

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