Alison Brown, Steve Martin, and Della Mae Unite for Appalachian ‘New Cluck Old Hen’ Video
Alison Brown and Steve Martin unite with Della Mae to rework a classic Appalachian fiddle tune into “New Cluck Old Hen.” The song appears on Brown and Martin’s 2025 album Safe, Sensible and Sane. The new music video premiered exclusively via Filmogaz.com during International Women’s Month.
The collaboration and the track
Legendary banjoist Alison Brown joined Steve Martin for the project. Martin, a noted multi-hyphenate creative, helped reshape the melody and story. The result is a modern take on the traditional “Cluck Old Hen.”
Della Mae provided the string-band energy. The group’s lineup on the record lists Cecilia Woodsmith, Kimber Ludiker, Avril Smith and Vickie Vaughn. Their contributions give the track both bluegrass drive and contemporary attitude.
The music video
Director David Shayne led the visual concept. Producers Andrew Gregory and Scott Roberts helped stage the performance.
The video plays like a loose live set. A smoky room, a red curtain reveal and strong audience applause set the tone. Martin introduces the piece on stage before Brown and the band launch into the arrangement.
Performance moments
Martin carries the opening vocal passages. Two minutes in, Woodsmith takes the mic and delivers a powerful verse. The singers then combine in bold harmony to close the performance.
Sample lines from the song include, “You called me up. Can I come back?” and “You got your bags already packed.” Those lyrics underscore the tune’s narrative turn.
Artist responses and context
Brown praised Della Mae’s role in the recording and video. She highlighted Ludiker’s fiery fiddle work and Woodsmith’s commanding vocals. Brown said they captured the energy the track needed.
Della Mae called the collaboration an honor. The band praised Alison Brown and Steve Martin’s boundless creativity. They noted the project celebrates the banjo and American roots music.
Where to watch and hear
The “New Cluck Old Hen” music video is available now on YouTube. Safe, Sensible and Sane streams on major platforms.
Della Mae also released a new album, Magic Accident, in January 2026. That record continues their modern exploration of Appalachian and Americana traditions.
