Canadian singer-songwriter Ian James Bain, a core member of Nicolette & the Nobodies and guitar player for Jeremie Albino, unveils his latest single, “Come & Gone,” a heartfelt country ballad that reflects on the struggle of trying to make a career in music while grappling with self-doubt, burnout, and the pull of nostalgia. A deeply personal track, “Come & Gone” paints a vivid picture of the uphill battle faced by independent artists, balancing romanticized dreams with the harsh realities of life on the road.

Rooted in classic country storytelling but infused with Bain’s distinctive modern edge, “Come & Gone” blends traditional form with unexpected chord changes, creating a sound that is both timeless and fresh. Lush pedal steel and warm, twangy guitars carry Bain‘s introspective lyrics, culminating in a song that feels both melancholic and reaffirming.

1. Tell us the story of this performance, why did you choose to capture this song specifically?

My buddy Taylor Wallace is a filmmaker and musician swung by the house on a cold gray day to film a few songs. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to play so we started with a new one that I had recently finished. I had a feeling we might lead with ‘Come & Gone’ so I figured it would be a good idea to cut that one as well. 
I was a little tired and a little hungover so I knocked it down a key to make it a little easier to sing and give the performance a more relaxed vibe. I like the way it turned out and I’ve been playing this one in G ever since.

2.What were you feeling inspired by the day of this performance?

Hard to say because this was filmed almost a year ago now but it’s probably a safe bet that I was feeling inspired by Keith Whitley.

3.What was the process of making this video?

Taylor called me asking if I wanted to shoot some live content. I said hell yeah. He swung by with a few lights and a couple of cameras, I put on my boots for “authenticity” we set up in my living room and I plunked out a few tunes. I kept messing up the lyrics on the last verse but we got it eventually. Fast forward a few months and I said I was finally releasing the tunes and he whipped up a nice cut and here we are.