Steel Magnolia New Album in the Works as Duo Confirm They Are Still Together!

Posted Mar 27th 2012 5:00PM by The Boot Staff
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Evan Agostini, AP

Contrary to reports, Steel Magnolia's Meghan Linsey and Joshua Scott Jones have not broken up ... at least not professionally. The ACM-nominated pair have managed to overcome a rocky year. After announcing their engagement last June, Joshua entered rehab in September to address substance abuse issues, causing Meghan to finish their stint on Reba McEntire's All the Women I Am tour with James Otto filling in. In January, the duo left their label, Big Machine Records, amidst rumors of a breakup.

But the pair are very much still together and working on a new album, despite their personal and professional hurdles. Joshua confirms with CMT that a new Steel Magnolia album is in the works, though he dodged questions about when and if they'll finally walk down the aisle. "We've had a long, beautiful relationship together, and that's going to continue on," he said, turning the focus back to the upcoming album. "We're really excited about the [new] music."

While the musician didn't speak specifically to whether or not he and Meghan are still romantically linked, he does believe their trials and tribulations will make excellent musical fodder. "I think it's going to be heartfelt. I think a lot of that will come through on the record," Joshua explains. "We want people to know another side of us and share that with the fans. At the end of the day, that's what matters and that's what feels great about being an artist and a singer -- having that support system with your fan base and them accepting that. It's fun, too, making a record. It's been a while since we had a record out, and it's time. And it's coming together nicely."

The singer reveals that this album's recording has been "simplified" as they strive to make the very best product. "Being a vocal duo, that's what we're trying to take pride in on this record and more of the songwriting element," Joshua adds. "But you're going to have your full-production songs on there, also. It's going to be more based around stories and songs, just as country music is."

As for how the 31-year-old is doing following his rehabilitation, Joshua remains positive and focused on the fans. "I just got out of a workout and I'm drinking a smoothie!" he says with a laugh. "So I'm doing great. Like I said, we can't wait to get back on the road and reconnect. Life is really good, and I thank God for it every day."

In addition to working on a new musical project, the Academy of Country Music Vocal Duo nominees are also participating in the ACM Experience, a free event slated for March 30 - April 1 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Tune in to the 47th Annual ACM Awards on April 1 to see if the third nomination is a charm for Steel Magnolia. The show airs at 8:00 PM ET on CBS.

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