Platinum Artist Atlus Unveils Deeply Personal Album "Art of Letting Go" on March 20th

Platinum-selling recording artist Atlus has officially announced the upcoming release of his label debut album, "Art of Letting Go," scheduled to drop on March 20th via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. This 15-track project promises to be a profoundly personal exploration, seamlessly blending country with diverse influences from pop, rock, and hip-hop. Described as equal parts fun and painful, honest and reflective, the album captures the extensive emotional breadth of an artist who meticulously built his career from the ground up, garnering a loyal underground following before his mainstream breakthrough.

A Deep Dive into Personal Experiences

The album "Art of Letting Go" is aptly named after a previously released title track that openly addresses themes of grief and the profound loss of Atlus's sister to addiction. This central theme underscores the project's commitment to mining the depths of the artist's songwriting prowess and his remarkable ability to forge direct connections with his listeners. Led by acclaimed producer Andrew Baylis, known for his work with Jelly Roll, and guided by a diverse group of collaborators who shaped the arrangements, the album features Atlus's debut country radio single, "Devil Ain’t Done," alongside the newly released driving lead preview track, "Spare Key," available today. BBR Music Group highlights this project as a significant moment for the artist.

Atlus candidly shared his perspective on the making of the album: "This album is honest and unbelievably personal. Like the experiences that inspired the songs, some are fun and some are intense. Making this record, I truly let go of a lot of the fears, pain, trauma, and things I’ve been carrying with me for years and there is an art to that. I used to stay in those painful moments. This time, it’s about moving through the moments and beyond the experiences that shaped me, both as a person and as an artist." This statement provides a glimpse into the raw vulnerability and therapeutic process embedded within the music.

From Underground Success to Mainstream Recognition

Prior to his partnership with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Atlus independently released four albums, cultivating a dedicated underground fanbase. This foundational work led to significant milestones, including sharing the stage with Jelly Roll at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, securing a Top 5 spot on Spotify’s Global Album Chart, accumulating over one billion on-demand streams, and achieving a Platinum release. His growing influence has not gone unnoticed, as he was recently named one of Pandora’s 2026 Artists to Watch in Country. Atlus is widely recognized for his powerful vocal delivery, infectious melodies, and emotionally charged songwriting that resonates deeply with audiences.

A Journey Forged by Resilience and Authenticity

Atlus's upbringing in a single-parent household, marked by poverty and addiction, profoundly shaped his resilient spirit and unwavering commitment to authenticity that defines his music. His artistic journey began while working tirelessly as a commercial truck driver, where he would craft lyrics behind the wheel, driven by the desire to support his family and fund his studio time. This arduous "pavement grind" ultimately served as the crucible that forged the artist he is today, illustrating a powerful narrative of perseverance and dedication.

New Tracks and Lyrical Narratives

The album builds on the momentum of "Devil Ain’t Done," his debut country radio single, which was among the most-added songs at country radio on its add day, achieved a Top 5 position in Australia, and continues its ascent on the U.S. charts. This instant fan favorite combines infectious grooves with lyrics that explore themes of self-doubt and perseverance, perfectly embodying Atlus’s mission to produce music that is both universally relatable and distinctly his own. The latest preview track, "Spare Key," showcases a driving chorus, serving as a poignant ode to a physical object that once symbolized the opening of his heart to love and possibility. Atlus explains the emotional depth behind the track: "Unlocking your heart to love leaves you vulnerable to rejection, and just because someone leaves without having ‘the conversation’ doesn’t mean you’re spared the pain. It’s about loving someone so deeply that even after the relationship is over, you know you would have never changed the locks." The track's release offers another compelling glimpse into the forthcoming album.

Family remains a central theme and priority for Atlus, with many of the album's tracks reflecting this sentiment. His hard-won success has enabled him to retire his mother, a testament to his dedication. Before his music career fully took off, the now 33-year-old artist balanced two truck-driving jobs with UPS shifts and Uber rides to finance his studio recordings, highlighting the immense effort and personal sacrifice invested in his craft. Atlus is set to commence his 2026 tour dates tomorrow night in Portland, Oregon, where he will be supporting Alexandra Kay, bringing his powerful new music to live audiences.