Role Model Fights Label for Indie Sound on New Album

Singer-songwriter Role Model, whose real name is Tucker Pillsbury, will release his new album, "Chuck Timely & The Hourglass," on August 7, 2026. He recently shared that he chose to stick with his preferred collaborators, Mason Stoops and Taylor Mackall, for the project, rather than bringing in more established producers as his label suggested following the success of his single "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out."

Pillsbury explained to Apple Music that he had to advocate for his creative choices, wanting to work with Stoops and Mackall who had previously contributed as session musicians. He felt confident in their untapped talent for producing pop music, a decision he is now glad he made.

The songwriting process for "Chuck Timely & The Hourglass" often involved improvisation. Pillsbury recalled that many sessions started with Stoops and Mackall jamming, leading to song ideas. The standout track "Good Thing" emerged quickly from such a spontaneous session, with the musicians noting its "Willie [Nelson] vibe."

Pillsbury expressed great satisfaction with the finished tracks, noting that listening to "Good Thing" felt like hearing a cover song, a testament to its quality. The album also includes the single "High Hopes 3000," which previously charted at No. 94 on the Billboard Hot 100.