Country rising voices Rhys Rutherford and Lauren Watkins come together on the new duet “Problem For Tomorrow,” out now via DeVille Records and Big Loud. The track unfolds as a slow-burning country conversation, with the two singers trading verses and blending their warm, honeyed vocals across a reflective melody.
Written by Rhys Rutherford alongside Clara Park and Ash Ruder, the song carries a cinematic emotional pull grounded in everyday storytelling. Production comes from Ernest, Jacob Durrett, and Rivers Rutherford, adding depth to the stripped-back arrangement and highlighting the natural chemistry between Rutherford and Watkins.
“I knew as soon as Clara, Ash, and I finished ‘Problem For Tomorrow’ that it was a special song,” Rutherford says. “I had been listening to Lauren’s album a lot at the time, and she was the first person I thought of to sing it with me. I’m so happy she felt the same way about the song. I am very proud of this one.”
“When I first heard ‘Problem For Tomorrow’ I immediately wanted to be a part of it,” Watkins adds. “It sounded almost cinematic to me but at the same time felt extremely relatable, which I think is such a sweet spot for a song to fall into. I’m so grateful to get to sing on it and I’m excited for people to hear it.”
Born and raised in Nashville, Rutherford grew up surrounded by the craft of songwriting through his father, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Rivers Rutherford. He continues building his own lane with clever lyricism and smooth country sonics, following recent releases including “Long Way.” He joins Ernest on the “Live From The South Tour” through April alongside upcoming festival appearances.