08/11/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULIANNE ANKLEY ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE “CHEAP THRILLS,” RECORDED WITH GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING PRODUCER AL SUTTON
Americana Singer-Songwriter Celebrates August 21 Release with Special Live Performance at Aretha’s Jazz Café Featuring Buddy Speir
DETROIT, MI — August 11, 2026 — Michigan Americana singer-songwriter Julianne Ankley is set to release her highly anticipated new single, “Cheap Thrills,” on Friday, August 21, 2026. The single was recorded at Rustbelt Studios with Grammy® Award-winning producer Al Sutton, bringing together some of Detroit’s finest musical talent for a song that explores the complicated realities behind appearances, relationships, and the pursuit of happiness.
The pre-sale for “Cheap Thrills” begins Thursday, August 13, giving fans an opportunity to get the new single ahead of its official release.
The August 21 release will be celebrated in person when Ankley takes the stage at Aretha’s Jazz Café in Detroit for a special release-night performance featuring special guest Buddy Speir.
“’Cheap Thrills’ is about the things we sometimes chase because they look good from the outside, even when we know there’s something deeper going on underneath,” says Ankley. “There’s a little bit of humor, a little bit of truth, and a whole lot of life in this song. Recording it with Al Sutton at Rustbelt Studios was an incredible experience, and I can’t wait for people to finally hear it.”
The song opens with the observation that “it all looks good from the road but I guess you can never tell,” setting the stage for a story about the contrast between perception and reality. With Ankley’s signature Americana storytelling, “Cheap Thrills” delivers an honest and relatable look at the everyday choices, compromises, and moments that make up modern life.
Working with Al Sutton, whose production credits include Grammy® Award-winning recordings and some of Detroit’s most influential artists, helped give the track a distinctly authentic Detroit sound while preserving Ankley’s roots-driven songwriting and vocal identity.
The release continues an important chapter in Ankley’s growing career. In March 2026, she was awarded the Americana Song of the Year at the Michigan Music Awards for her song “Polar Train.” She was also selected to perform at the BMI/iHeart Radio Treasure Coast Songwriters Festival in Florida earlier this year, as well as being selected to perform at the BMI/iHeart Radio Island Hopper Songwriters Festival in Florida next month.
ABOUT JULIANNE ANKLEY
Julianne Ankley is a Michigan-based Americana singer-songwriter whose music blends heartfelt storytelling, roots, country, rock, and the rich musical traditions of the Great Lakes region. Known for her authentic songwriting and emotionally resonant performances, Ankley has established herself as an emerging voice in Michigan’s Americana music community.
Her songwriting has earned recognition from the Michigan Music Awards, including the 2026 Americana Song of the Year award for “Polar Train,” while her live performances and songwriting continue to expand her audience throughout Michigan and beyond.
With the release of “Cheap Thrills,” Ankley enters the next chapter of her musical journey with a song that is equal parts honest, relatable, and distinctly Detroit.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kevin Kay / K2 Artist Management
Management for Julianne Ankley
[email protected]
(586) 909-0841
JULIANNE ANKLEY ONLINE
Official Website: www.JulianneAnkley.com
