HAYBOY shares new single ‘Smartness & Dollars’ ahead of forthcoming album

West Virginia songwriter Daniel Brown has returned with a new HAYBOY single, “Smartness & Dollars,” introducing the next phase of the project ahead of a forthcoming album.

The track combines distorted guitar tones, psychedelic atmosphere and a loose alternative-rock feel with lyrics questioning the value of achievement when it comes at the expense of personal relationships. Brown describes the song as a reminder that connection can matter more than ambition.

“Smartness & Dollars” was recorded live in the studio with drummer Dylan Hill of Mamalarky and bassist Steven Buehler of Pecos & The Rooftops, without rehearsal or a click track. Producer Lang Freeman later added lead guitar in a single take.

While the instrumental recording came together quickly, Brown spent close to a year refining the vocal performance.

The release also introduces a wider visual concept for the upcoming album, with Brown creating original pen-and-ink illustrations that will be included with the first vinyl pressing.