Nashville, Tenn. (October 4, 2024) — Mark Newton has announced a new single and video, “Square One.” The song is a soulful ballad that delves into the depths of personal struggle and resilience. Jared Finck filmed the accompanying video at Darrell Turnbull’s Back Forty Studio in Curryville, Missouri, during the “Square One” recording.
Musicians on the track include Mark Newton (lead vocal), Clay Hess (rhythm and lead guitar and baritone vocal), John Wheat (banjo), Darrell Turnbull (mandolin chop and lead and tenor vocal), and Brennan Hess (bass), and produced by Clay Hess.
“Square One” songwriter Kenny Thacker said, “My hope is that this song sparks hope in you. I don’t know if Mark chose this song or if it chose him, but either way, I’m thrilled he’s cut it, and I think you will connect with it big time and love it.”
“This song, ‘Square One,’ immediately resonated with me,” shared Newton. “As artists, we all hope to have a song that allows us to express our true emotions. I’ve lived this song, and I’m thrilled to reconnect with the music that I was born and raised on and love. Many of us can relate to this; some days it seems like we’re starting back at ‘Square One.’ Every day is truly a gift.”
Newton’s fellow performing artists are applauding his new single, saying:
“I truly don’t know that Mark, could have found a better song to come back with. It captures a life as he has known it. It’s not often a person gets a second chance in life itself nor starting over in the music business. The restoration of his health and strength, lets me know that God is not just of enough he is God of more than enough. I have known Mark for over forty years. This is a good song, but a greater testimony.” ~ Marty Raybon, Shenandoah
“A silver bluegrass voice, a great big heart and a tenacity that won’t quit – that’s Mark Newton. His new song ‘Square One’ is tailor-made.” ~ Claire Lynch
“Thank you, Mark, for being a shining beacon for life in a world of uncertainty.”~ Jerry Douglas
“I’ve been a Mark Newton fan since I first met him and got to play some music with him as a teenager. It’s been inspiring to watch him navigate his health challenges of the last few years with such grace. To be on the other side of such a journey now with the release of the deeply inspired ‘Square One’ is a beautiful thing to witness. If this is any indication of more to come, then we are all in for a treat!” ~ Sierra Hull
“This song has a great message for those who have struggled with life’s circumstances. The message is to never give up on something you love and the emotion in Mark’s vocals is proof of that! Congratulations Mark on a job well done.” Rickie Simpkins – Virginia Squires, Tony Rice Unit, Emmy Lou Harris and the Issacs.
Radio programmers are praising this new single as well:
“Even with years of experience and numerous accolades to his credit, he’s always started each new endeavor with a clean slate, unencumbered by successes and challenges of the past. To that I will simply add, your fans, friends and family have all been waiting for your return to music Mark, and I’m proud to be one of many who are celebrating that return with such a powerful message and song. Welcome back my friend!” ~ Terry Herd (Bluegrass Today, CEO Bluegrass Radio Network)
“I’ve known Mark since the early ’80s and I’m so happy he is back at it! (…truly a miracle…) It’s a great song and a very fitting one for all he has overcome.” ~ Cindy Baucom, Knee Deep in Bluegrass
“Having been a fan of Mark Newton’s singing for so many years – going back to the Knoxville Grass and the Virginia Squires – I was thrilled to hear his new single ‘Square One.’ His voice is strong and he sings this song with real conviction. Welcome back, Mark, to the bluegrass charts and beyond!” ~ Wayne Rice, Mountain Country 107.9, Alpine, California
“Square One” is available to radio programmers at Get It Played, AirPlay Direct, and Hope River Entertainment.
We encourage you to listen to “Square One” on your favorite music platforms. To learn more about Mark Newton’s impressive career, please visit marknewtonmusic.com.
