Lost Highway Records Revived with Kacey Musgraves at the Helm

The Lost Highway office in Nashville’s vibrant Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood is buzzing with activity as it undergoes a transformation. Since moving in January 2026, the workspace has become a hive of productivity, even as many cubicles remain cluttered with unpacked boxes and internet connectivity is limited to certain areas. Staffers are making the most of the space, working in smaller offices, conference rooms, and even on kitchen bar stools, all in preparation for the highly anticipated release of Kacey Musgraves’ new album, Middle of Nowhere, set to debut on May 1.

Robert Knotts, co-head of Lost Highway alongside Jake Gear, has hailed Musgraves as a guiding light for the label’s revival. In his first public comments since Interscope Geffen A&M (IGA) announced the revival in April 2025, Knotts emphasized her unwavering commitment to creativity, stating, "There is no compromise in the best way possible. If we can work with artists like that, then we’re doing our job." He considers Musgraves a 'North Star' for their efforts, a sentiment that reflects her deep connection to the label.

Musgraves was the last artist signed to the original Lost Highway before it closed in 2012, making her the first artist to sign with the revived label. The original Lost Highway was founded in 2000 by Luke Lewis, known for its eclectic roster that included legends like Willie Nelson, Elvis Costello, and Steve Earle. Musgraves herself was signed in 2011 but saw her career take a different path when the label was absorbed into Mercury Nashville. To celebrate her return, she released a cover of Hank Williams’ iconic song "Lost Highway" in April 2025.

John Janick, chairman and CEO of Interscope Capitol and IGA, expressed his belief that Musgraves is the perfect artist to lead the revived Lost Highway. "She loved the idea of being the first artist signed to the new Lost Highway. She’s exactly the type of artist that we want to be on Lost Highway," he said. This revival adds to IGA’s roster and positions the label as a creative counterpoint to mainstream coastal labels that have been establishing a strong presence in Nashville.

Gear and Knotts share a deep appreciation for Lost Highway’s legacy. Gear, who previously worked at UMG Nashville, and Knotts, who has a background at Thirty Tigers, are committed to breathing new life into the imprint. They made it a priority to connect with Luke Lewis early in their tenure, seeking insight into the label’s original intentions and the creative pathways laid down by its past artists. Lewis expressed pride in the revival, attributing it to a favorable environment for guitar-driven singer/songwriters, stating, "Twenty-five years after the initial launch, the times have obviously changed."

The new Lost Highway is not merely a repetition of its predecessor. In a music industry now dominated by streaming, Gear and Knotts are determined to champion their artists across various platforms, including terrestrial radio when suitable. "It’s up to us to work with [the artists] on what their vision is and then find the right format," Knotts added. This approach allows the label to navigate diverse musical genres, ranging from mainstream country to Americana, all the way to commercial Triple A.

Recently, the label celebrated the success of Brandi Carlile’s album Returning to Myself, which debuted impressively on multiple Billboard charts. This marks a strong start for the revived label, which is also celebrating the 25th anniversary of one of its original releases, the Grammy-winning soundtrack for O Brother Where Art Thou. The anniversary was commemorated with a special gold vinyl edition and a celebratory event at the Grand Ole Opry featuring both original and newer artists.

As Lost Highway continues to expand its roster, it has welcomed acts like Flatland Calvary, who recently released Work of Heart, and Laci Kaye Booth, a smoky-voiced 2019 American Idol finalist. The label is also home to artists like Cigarettes@Sunset and Meels, who have been gaining traction in the industry. Knotts noted that the new Lost Highway controls the original catalog, which consists of approximately 150 to 200 titles.

Ahead, Gear has ambitious plans for the label. He envisions creating a new chapter for Lost Highway, one that will produce a stable of artists so creatively impactful that "20 years later, somebody wants to call me when I’m retired and come talk to me like we talked to Luke and T Bone." This sentiment reflects their commitment to fostering artistic authenticity and ensuring that the legacy of Lost Highway resonates for decades.

With the global teams at IGA backing them, Gear and Knotts are well-positioned to navigate the modern music industry. As they integrate these resources into their strategies, they aim to provide their artists with a platform that increases their reach and impact. The excitement surrounding Lost Highway’s revival is not just about nostalgia; it’s about carving out a new space for innovative music in Nashville and beyond.

As the label prepares for the release of Musgraves’ Middle of Nowhere, the energy in the office is infectious. The staff’s dedication and enthusiasm are evident as they work tirelessly to make the revival of Lost Highway a success. With a roster of artists that embodies the spirit of creative independence, Lost Highway is set to reclaim its place in the music industry, championing the voices of those who dare to be different.