From witty lyrics to triumphant keys, Jon Tyler Wiley & His Virginia Choir’s new single contradicts its title in “Just Another Heartbreak Song.”
A version of “Just Another Heartbreak Song” was first featured on Wiley’s debut solo album, The Longing, in 2022. With the Virginia Choir’s backing, the song is reborn with new and deliberate energy. Wiley posted on Instagram to celebrate the re-release, saying, “It’s my favorite version of this song.”
Though the band has produced soulful tracks such as “Coffee, Wine” and “Song of Moving On,” the first several seconds of their single informs listeners that the song isn’t a melancholy breakup song. The single opens with a ripping Keith Richards-esque electric guitar and stomping drums to create an upbeat, blood-pumping number.
Despite the lyrics detailing places spoiled by a breakup, a cheeky undertone carries the single past an otherwise depressing theme. This playfulness surfaces in the first verse: “Man-made Lake Marshall felt like a San Diego Beach / Why they let us swim so close to a nuclear plant / Well hey honey, that’s way beyond me.” Then later: “That two-dollar beer still seems overpriced / I’m pretty sure it’s just watered down fermented iced tea.”
The new single — released December 6, 2024 — follows the band’s debut album, Pictures in the Dark. The band has developed a reputation for delivering a versatile mosaic of genres like country, folk, soul, and roots rock, showcased prominently on the record.
The Richmond, Virginia-based group is comprised of lead singer and songwriter Jon Tyler Wiley along with Sean Mahon, Josh Pittman, Lonnie Southall, and Brian “Piper” Barbre, who together blend their musical backgrounds to create the band’s magnetic sound.
Following their release of “Just Another Heartbreak Song,” Jon Tyler Wiley and His Virginia Choir hit the road in a series of both solo shows and supporting acts for Sister Hazel. The band has upcoming dates in the greater Richmond and Washington D.C. area, and continues to add dates as the year unfolds.
