Orville Peck, a country music outsider with a deep baritone reminiscent of classic outlaws, has gained popularity by releasing music under a mask and pseudonym. As he prepares to release his third album, “Stampede,” he has collaborated with artists like Willie Nelson, Elton John, Mickey Guyton, and Kylie Minogue. Peck sees his confidence growing as he gradually reveals more of his face and identity, now only wearing a hat and eye mask.
Peck’s duets album features brand-new collaborations with various artists, each song being a creative experiment balancing both artists’ styles. He cites traditional country duos as inspiration and highlights the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ community in his music. A dream collaboration with Dolly Parton did not happen, but Peck cherishes his experience working with Willie Nelson on a queer country classic, “Cowboys Are Frequently, Secretly Fond of Each Other.”
On “Stampede,” Peck covers non-traditional songs like a bluegrass version of the indie rock track “Papa Was a Rodeo,” and a disco number “Midnight Ride” with Kylie Minogue and Diplo. Despite being on the outskirts of mainstream country music, Peck values his unique perspective and the validation he receives from working with legendary artists he admires. He chooses to let his music and art speak for themselves, rather than conforming to the norms of the Nashville scene.
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