Michelle Lee On Air 
Just a couple months ago in August (2025), there was an album released by an incredibly talented young bluegrass artist. This album’s core is rooted in traditional and contemporary Bluegrass, but it boldly builds bridges to other genres, primarily Classic Country and as Roberts has noted herself, “it’s flavored with classic country and even a little old-time rock and roll.” If you are unclear of whom I am speaking of, I am speaking of our October Album Spotlight, “Let Me Be Lonely” released by Jaelee Roberts.
To give you a quick review of “Let Me Be Lonely” album, let me share my two cents through a song-by-song breakdown of the album:
Between The Two of Us – this is an original co-write along with Kristen Bearfield and Donna Ulisse. What a way to start off an album with a song that has a positive and reassuring note. It shares a message of enduring love and commitment between two people overcoming life trials.
Love Gone Missing – this song definitely tells the heartbreak of one that is faced with learning that the person they love is not coming back. Roberts co-wrote this country flavored song with Theo MacMillan that transitions into a full-throttle bluegrass beat.
Let me Be Lonely – Roberts delivers the title track song in a way that embraces the theme of lonesome and deep heartache. The instrumental arrangement of Russ Pahl on steel guitar just adds to emotional impact along with adding a country feel to the tune. Roberts favorite line in the song is: “Don’t come knock’in on the door – That smile’s not welcome here anymore” which you hear right at the beginning.
Stuck In The Middle With You – Roberts definitely gives us a fun and spirited curveball that showcases the album’s willingness to blend traditional with innovation. This song is a bold, rock-and-roll-flavored Stealer’s Wheel cover but has a thoroughly acoustic arrangement that keeps it grounded in the bluegrass genre.
Looking For Yourself – Roberts puts a fresh, energetic spin on this classic Lonesome River Band song, channeling that ‘80s and ‘90s era that we all crave now-a-days. The confidence that Roberts has in her voice capabilities shines throughout the complex melody of this song.
He’s Gone – YOUR 2025 IBMA GOSPEL RECORDING of the YEAR – this award-winning song features bluegrass legends Ricky Skaggs and The Whites. This is a traditional bluegrass gospel song that is powerful and shares the story of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The blend of vocals is truly an emotional command of faith.
Georgia Rain – This original from Roberts gave that atmosphere, reflective soundscape that took me to my memories of driving through the mountains listening to Fleetwood Mac. The classic instrumental lineup on this song truly played a big part in the album’s bluegrass foundation.
Love Ain’t Supposed To Hurt – As a sad song that was penned by respected bluegrass/country songwriters Harley Allen and Herb McCullough, it made a dream come true for Roberts. She has always wanted to sing a song written by Harley Allen and if you know Roberts, you know she loves sad songs. It showcases Roberts’ maturity as an interpreter, conveying the emotional weight of a relationship that falls short of expectations.
Cry In The Rain – this country ballad can be described as a beautifully written (Billy Droze and Christopher Myers), sad story of hiding heartbreak and only allowing oneself to cry in solitude. I mean, who hasn’t cried in the rain or even in the shower? This song is relatable by many!
Heavy As A Stone In Her Heart – co-written by Tim Stafford and Steve Gulley, Roberts shows off her vocal strength in this powerful closing track. The sound and lyrics of the song paint the perfect portrait of how one can have a deep yearning love for another many miles away.
In summary, this record is hailed as a testament to Roberts’ vocal maturity and versatility. She confidently navigates a wide emotional range, from lonesome heartbreak to gospel devotion, and making the listener believe in the words she is singing. Byron House did an exceptional job of producing the album to follow her strong debut album, “Something You Didn’t Count On”.
“Let Me Be Lonely” is that album everyone should have on their playlists, as an album on their shelves and/or requests sent to broadcasters on a daily basis. Make sure to check out Jaelee Roberts website https://jaeleerobertsmusic.com and all her social media pages – Jaelee Roberts Music