Songwriter Kendell Marvel is set to release his first-ever solo album, and he's giving The Boot's readers a first listen to one of its songs. Press play below to hear "Hurtin' Gets Hard," the seventh track on Marvel's upcoming record.

"Hurtin' Gets Hard" was written by Marvel, Keith Gattis and Audley Freed; Gattis is Marvel's producer, while Freed used to be part of the Black Crowes and now plays guitar with Sheryl Crow. Marvel describes the song -- one of 10 tracks on his new disc -- as "the most country song on the record."

"I wanted a song that felt like "Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues" -- something that had that retro, '70s-country feel ... I love this one because everyone's been there. Everyone has had heartbreak and put up a good front, been the life of the party, until you get home at night and all you have then is yourself.

"The best songs, to me, are ones that are relatable," Marvel adds, "and I hope this one will hit home for people who listen.”

Marvel will release his solo record, Lowdown and Lonesome, on Oct. 13; it's a concept record that blends down-home country and roots rock and tells a story of heartbreak and vice. Marvel has written songs for George Strait, Jake Owen and more, but this time around, Randy Houser and Chris Stapleton are among Marvel's co-writers. Marvel co-wrote nine of Lowdown and Lonesome's 10 tracks; the final song is a cover of Charlie Daniels' "Drinkin' My Baby Goodbye," and features Jamey Johnson.

Marvel is a Southern Illinois native. He began playing gigs at the age of 10, and in 1998, he left his home state for Nashville.

Lowdown and Lonesome is available for pre-order.

Listen to Kendell Marvel, "Hurtin' Gets Hard":

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