Alison Brown, Steve Martin and Della Mae Join Together for Appalachian-Rooted ‘New Cluck Old Hen’ Video (Exclusive)

In a refreshing twist on a classic tune, renowned banjoist Alison Brown, comedy legend Steve Martin, and the Grammy-nominated band Della Mae have united to reinterpret the historic Appalachian song “Cluck Old Hen.” Their new rendition, aptly titled “New Cluck Old Hen,” has been integrated into Brown and Martin’s upcoming album, *Safe, Sensible and Sane*, scheduled for release in 2025.

The song’s debut comes with a lively music video, which premiered exclusively through *People* magazine. This release coincides with International Women’s Month, further celebrating the profound contributions of women in the music industry. The video showcases a dynamic performance, rooted deeply in American folklore and musicianship, encapsulating a vibrant blend of old and contemporary sounds.

Martin shared his thoughts on the original song’s essence, describing it as a “nonsense song” that features whimsical lyrics about a chicken that lays an unrealistic number of eggs. He expressed his desire to inject a more compelling narrative into the melody. “Here we are, a raw tale of married life,” he explained, highlighting the depth he sought to achieve with the reimagined lyrics.

The music video, directed by David Shayne, captures the trio’s performance in an intimate, smoky venue that evokes nostalgia for the golden age of roots music. As they take to the stage, the spellbound audience applauds, creating an electric atmosphere that reinforces the authenticity and charm of their artistry.

At the onset of the performance, Martin introduces the new version of the song, leading the audience into the lively arrangement as Brown, alongside Della Mae members, showcase their incredible instrumental prowess. Within moments, the stage transforms as singer Celia Woodsmith joins Martin in a duet that melds powerful vocals and harmonies, emphasising the emotional duality central to the song’s narrative.

Brown expressed her enthusiasm about collaborating with Della Mae, which comprises skilled musicians like Kimber Ludiker and Vickie Vaughn. She acknowledged their talent and energy, noting that the band’s fierce fiddle playing and Woodsmith’s commanding voice captured the spirit needed to bring “New Cluck Old Hen” to life both sonically and visually. “I’m so happy we were able to capture that energy on video,” she remarked.

In a statement shared with *People*, Della Mae reflected on their collaboration with Brown and Martin, expressing their admiration for the pair. The band described the project as a joyful celebration of the banjo, adding that working with such esteemed artists was an unparalleled honour. Their sentiment reinforces the unity and shared respect among musicians, especially within genres steeped in tradition like bluegrass.

Meanwhile, the anticipation surrounding the new album *Safe, Sensible and Sane* highlights a fruitful period for both Brown and Martin. They have recently released new music that showcases their respective individual creativity while honouring the historical lineage of Appalachian and bluegrass music. Della Mae, too, has found success with their latest offering, *Magic Accident*, launched in January 2026, marking a significant chapter in their artistic journey.

The band’s contemporary take on traditional sounds aids in preserving the rich heritage of Appalachian music, ensuring its legacy will endure for future generations. By blending their distinctive styles with modern sensibilities, they carve out a space that honours their predecessors while innovating for today’s listeners.

The music video for “New Cluck Old Hen” is currently available on YouTube, encouraging fans to immerse themselves in this extraordinary musical collaboration. Concurrently, *Safe, Sensible and Sane* is accessible across all major streaming platforms, allowing audiences to partake in the rich tapestry of sound that Brown, Martin, and Della Mae expertly weave together. Through projects like these, the essence of Appalachian storytelling is revived and celebrated, underscoring the timelessness and relevance of such narratives in contemporary culture.