Country artist Gary Pratt is all about heartfelt stories — and his latest single, “Red Barn,” is no exception.
In an exclusive conversation, Pratt opens up about the song that’s kicking off his next chapter, why he wasn’t planning on recording again so soon, and how a chance call from his trusted collaborators changed everything.
“I honestly wasn’t ready to jump back into the studio,” Pratt admits. “But when I got a call from Adam Ernst and Douglas Kasper — the dream team from my last album — I knew I couldn’t pass it up.”
The Pennsylvania-born country singer, best known for his emotional 2021 album Something Worth Remembering, which was dedicated to his late brother, found himself unexpectedly thrust back into creative mode. But what came out of that whirlwind year was “Red Barn,” a sweet, flirtatious love song wrapped in nostalgia and a boot-stomping groove.
“I didn’t even know what songs I was going to record,” he says with a laugh. “But the minute I heard ‘Red Barn,’ it hit home. It reminded me of the red barn on my great-grandfather’s farm. I may have been little, but I still remember it.”
The song, written by Nashville hitmaker Jason Patrick Matthews (whose credits include Luke Bryan, Billy Currington, and Trace Adkins), spins a lighthearted tale of country romance. A girl’s home alone on the farm, a guy shows up with a Silverado and a case of beer, and the sparks fly in a hayloft under the full moon. It’s playful, yes — but never forced.
“I gravitate to songs that bring back memories,” Pratt says. “And this one did exactly that. It’s personal, but it’s also just fun.”
Pratt’s longtime duet partner Kate Szallar adds harmonies to the track, bringing a warmth and chemistry that makes the story feel even more real. “Kate and I work together a lot, and her voice just fits perfectly,” he says. Fun fact: Szallar and her husband even have a red barn — and a Silverado — on their property. “That just made it feel like fate,” Pratt adds.
The recording process was a full-circle moment. Ernst — who now lives in Nashville — traveled back to Pittsburgh one week each month throughout 2024 to help produce the tracks and play all the instruments. Kasper engineered the sessions at his state-of-the-art Tonic Studios. “We’re an unbelievable team,” says Pratt. “I could never have done this without them.”
For Pratt, connecting with fans has always been the most rewarding part of the journey. Whether he’s performing on stage or chatting with listeners after a show, he’s quick to share stories, listen to theirs, and remind people why country music matters. “Music is about shared experiences,” he says. “If someone hears ‘Red Barn’ and it brings back a memory, or just makes them smile — that’s everything to me.” With each new release, Pratt continues to build not just a catalog of songs, but a community rooted in authenticity, warmth, and a love for real-life stories.
“Red Barn” also has some special plans in store for fans. Country choreographer Karen Zima is currently developing a line dance for the single, which Pratt plans to introduce at upcoming shows. “We want people to dance, have fun, and be part of the story,” he says.
The single has already started making waves with early listeners who praise its feel-good energy and vivid imagery. It’s the kind of song that’s easy to picture — you can almost feel the warm summer night air and hear the sound of boots kicking up dust under the stars. It’s comfort music with heart.
As for what’s next? “Every artist hopes their next project tops the last,” Pratt says. “I really believe this one does. It’s a little lighter, a little more playful — but still true to who I am.”
At its heart, “Red Barn” is more than a song. It’s a snapshot of young love, a nod to family roots, and a celebration of the simple moments that stick with us forever.
And for Gary Pratt, it’s a reminder that the best things often come when you least expect them.
–Jason Simpson