Jack Van Cleaf and Zach Bryan Breathe New Life into "Rattlesnake" with Reimagined Duet
Jack Van Cleaf, a California-born singer-songwriter now based in Nashville, has released a reimagined version of his track "Rattlesnake" featuring Zach Bryan on January 29, 2025. The new duet was recorded at the iconic Electric Lady Studios in New York City with Eddie Spear as co-producer. The collaboration captures a spontaneous energy, with Van Cleaf and Bryan trading off lines in the studio, leaning into instinct and inspiration.
The reimagined version of "Rattlesnake" serves as the lead single for Van Cleaf's upcoming sophomore album, "JVC," set to be released on May 9, 2025, via Dualtone Records. The album, which explores themes of identity, home, and adulthood, was partially recorded in remote locations like Joshua Tree and the Texas/Mexico border.
"Rattlesnake" originally appeared on Van Cleaf's 2022 debut album, "Fruit from the Trees," and quickly gained traction, amassing over 12 million streams on Spotify. The song's success caught the attention of Zach Bryan, who began covering it on social media before reaching out to Van Cleaf about a potential collaboration.
Van Cleaf's musical journey began in his teenage years in San Diego, where he wrote his first song as a high school freshman. He later moved to Nashville to study songwriting at Belmont University, where he formed close relationships with fellow musicians who continue to collaborate with him. His style blends folk, alt-country, and subtle rock elements, drawing inspiration from artists like Kris Kristofferson, Leonard Cohen, Dawes, and The Killers.
In addition to "Rattlesnake," Van Cleaf has released other singles in preparation for his new album, including "Teenage Vampire" featuring Gatlin. He has also toured extensively, opening for artists such as Noah Kahan, Briston Maroney, and Shakey Graves.
Van Cleaf's rise in the music industry has been marked by critical acclaim and growing recognition. He was named one of Spotify's 2024 Artists to Watch and a TIDAL Rising Artist. As he prepares for the release of "JVC," Van Cleaf continues to captivate audiences with his honest songwriting and powerful performances, solidifying his position as a rising star in the indie folk and Americana scenes.
