Owensboro native and up-and-coming country artist Cam Thompson is set to release his newest single, Sober Side of Sorry, on April 18 — a song he says is his most personal work to date.
Thompson co-wrote the song with longtime collaborator Mitchell Douglas, with the two setting out to create something more meaningful than their past projects.
Thompson started writing the song with longtime collaborator Mitchell Douglas.
“I told him I wanted to write something deeper than we’ve ever written together,” Thompson said. “I had the title in mind already, and we ended up writing about someone struggling with alcoholism — how it pushes away the people they love.”
The two had a write setup with Travis Chaney, a local songwriter who owns a publishing company in Nashville, Ace High Music, and brought him in on the song.
“Cam and Mitchell are talented especially with melodies which compliments my strengths in lyrics, story telling, and song structure. It was an amazing collaboration and I’m honored to be a part of it,” Chaney said.
Thompson recorded Sober Side of Sorry in Nashville last fall. Douglas is also featured on harmonies for the single, adding depth to the emotional storytelling.
“This is probably my favorite song I’ve ever written,” Thompson said. “It’s got steel guitar, cello — it leans into that old-school, alternative country sound. Real singer-songwriter stuff.”
Douglas echoed a similar sentiment.
“I’ll never forget when we finished the hook to the chorus and that moment we both knew right away that we had written something special,” Douglas said.
Thompson said his music has evolved significantly in recent years, embracing a more stripped-down, storytelling-focused style. He’s currently working on two additional songs with plans to release those later this year.
Fresh off a trip to Florida, Thompson is also looking to put together a small summer tour across Kentucky.
“I’m doing everything solo right now. Just trying to stay authentic and represent Owensboro the best I can,” he said. “I’ve got one of my best friends acting as my booking agent and sometimes security — just trying to keep it grassroots.”
Thompson first appeared in The Owensboro Times in 2021 after releasing a self-titled EP and gaining regional attention for his soulful voice and genuine lyrics. Since then, he’s continued to develop his sound while staying true to his roots.
Despite opportunities to chase a more commercial path in Nashville, Thompson said he’s committed to carving out his own lane.
“I’m just doing my thing and taking my time,” he said. “I want every song to mean something.”
“Sober Side of Sorry” will be available on all major streaming platforms beginning April 18.
