The collaboration and music video were unveiled in honor of the song’s 50th anniversary.
Cody Johnson joins Michael Martin Murphey for a fresh take on the Platinum-certified ballad, “Wildfire,” which first appeared on Murphey’s notable album Blue Sky Night Thunder back in 1975. In celebration of the song’s its 50th anniversary this year, the pair of artists teamed up to release a new duet as well as a powerful music video that shines a light on the haunting story that has captivated fans for generations.
The accompanying visuals add another layer to the landmark milestone, as it brings new life to the classic narrative. Inside the video, viewers are treated to a series of breathtaking scenes from Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse, a new feature film inspired by Murphey’s iconic hit. Fans get to see a glimpse of how the story is portrayed in the full film, which arrived in select theaters this fall and become available nationwide on October 10 via Fandango at Home and on-demand platforms.
As the story unfolds, viewers are faced with nostalgia and a powerful sense of wonder as they watch a young girl’s bond with her horse take center stage. However her dreamlike state turns into a panic when her companion gets lost during a fierce blizzard. Braving snow and obstacles, her determination drives her on a journey to find her horse until she ultimately reunites with him with the help of others along the way. Several stars from the upcoming film, including Chevel Shepherd and Moses Brings Plenty, appear in the music video to help bring key moments of the narrative to life.
Interlaced with the cinematic moments are intimate shots of Murphey and Johnson in the studio recording their collaborative rendition, showcasing the true heart and strength behind their vocals. These two artists coming together on such an iconic track makes for a timeless experience for both longtime fans and new listeners.
Looking back on the song’s longstanding impact, Murphey reflected on how the story came to be and shared his excitement about the opportunity to revisit it with a new voice. Their collaboration is already making waves, entering the Mediabase Activator charts.
“Over 50 years ago this song came to me in a dream, and after 50 years I can’t believe the impact it’s had. Cody Johnson’s voice was great and the combination was incredible to do together. I hope this song impacts more generations and the stories continue to be told of how ‘Wildfire’ moved them. Some songs are just brought to life through an amazing gift, ‘Wildfire’ is like that to me.”
Another way that Murphey plans to honor the milestone is by recording a special anniversary edition of Blue Sky Night Thunder, revisiting Platinum-certified classics like “Carolina in the Pines” alongside some of today’s biggest country stars. Fans can get in on the historic celebration through an upcoming pre-order campaign, which will include exclusive rewards, behind-the-scenes access, and collectible memorabilia. A date for the re-recorded album has not been announced yet.
Michael Martin Murphey has spent the over five decades building a career and a legacy as one of America’s most influential singer-songwriters. He is credited for being a trailblazer across the genres of country, folk, Western, and bluegrass and even had a hand in pioneering the Austin “Cosmic Cowboy” movement alongside Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker.
He went on to achieve chart-topping success with classics like “Wildfire,” “Carolina in the Pines,” and “What’s Forever For,” and his songs have been recorded by music legends including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, The Monkees, John Denver, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Between his impactful career and his devotion to cowboy culture and Western heritage, Murphey’s influence remains as powerful today as ever.
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