Little Big Town has released “Closing Time,” a new collaboration with Kelsea Ballerini from the group’s forthcoming album It’s A Dying Art, due August 28 via MCA. The song is available now across digital streaming platforms, alongside an official music video on Little Big Town’s YouTube channel. Featuring Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, and Jimi Westbrook with six-time Grammy nominee Ballerini, “Closing Time” centers on a night that keeps going after last call.
It’s A Dying Art was co-produced by two-time Grammy winner Gena Johnson and Fairchild. Johnson’s previous credits include work with Jason Isbell, Dolly Parton, and Brandi Carlile. The album combines close-up storytelling and balladry with an emphasis on human-made performances shaped by imperfection and lived experience. The project reflects more than 25 years of chemistry and trust among Fairchild, Schlapman, Sweet, and Westbrook.
Little Big Town first previewed It’s A Dying Art with “Hey There Sunshine,” which the group debuted at the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards. The Tennessean wrote about the song’s themes of hope and healing after the ACM performance, while Billboard pointed to its timely message. That release was followed by “Over and Over,” then “Sucker For A Sad Song” featuring Ashley Monroe, which Rolling Stone selected for its “Songs You Need to Know” coverage. Other songs on the album include “The Door” featuring Jason Isbell, “It’s Coming Around,” and “The Idea.”
Little Big Town will mark the album’s release with a performance on the TODAY Plaza on September 1 as part of TODAY’s Citi Concert Series. The band’s For The Art Of It Tour begins September 24 in St. Petersburg, Florida, before visiting cities including Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, and Toronto. Produced by Live Nation, the fall itinerary covers U.S. and Canadian dates. In December, Little Big Town returns to Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium for The Christmas Shows Ryman Residency, a three-night run scheduled for December 8-10. The Ryman shows will combine holiday songs with selections from the group’s catalog.
