Pittsburgh’s acclaimed acoustic quartet blends rich harmonies, heartfelt storytelling, and decades of musical experience in a stirring Americana anthem.
PITTSBURGH, PA – November 1, 2026 – Some musicians are born to follow the rules. Others are born to follow the road. On November 13, 2026, Pittsburgh-based Acoustic Union celebrates the latter with the release of its new single, “Last of the Highway Troubadours,” a heartfelt tribute to the dreamers, wanderers, and working musicians who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of music.
Written by Joe Birch, Kevin McCarthy, and John Vento, and engineered by Doug Kasper, the song blends Americana, folk, and roots rock with the group’s signature four-part harmonies. Its nostalgic storytelling captures the sacrifices, freedom, and enduring camaraderie of musicians who have spent their lives traveling from stage to stage.
From neon-lit dive bars to nights spent trading songs for gas money and a place to sleep, “Last of the Highway Troubadours” paints a vivid portrait of life on the road. The song acknowledges the hardships of chasing musical dreams while celebrating the independence and determination that keep artists moving forward.
For Acoustic Union, these experiences are more than lyrical inspiration. They’re woven into the group’s collective history.
Featuring John Vento, Joe Birch, Kevin McCarthy, and Cherylann Hawk, Acoustic Union originated in August 2023 as Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy, with founding members Vento, Bob “Ziggy” Zigerelli, Hawk, and McCarthy. When Zigerelli’s health challenges led Birch to transition from special guest to full-time member in January 2025, the group adopted its current name.
Their sound combines acoustic guitars, percussion, and lush vocal harmonies, bringing fresh interpretations to original compositions and beloved classics. Their repertoire includes selections from their September 2024 debut album, Four Ever, alongside songs by Bob Dylan, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, James Taylor, John Prine, Linda Ronstadt, and others.
Each member brings a unique musical background and an impressive résumé to the group.
Vento, frontman of The Nied’s Hotel Band, co-founded Band Together Pittsburgh, supporting musical opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. He also established Steamworks Creative in Gibsonia, where Acoustic Union developed its sound.
Birch brings Nashville songwriting and Music Row experience, along with years of performing at country music venues and sharing the stage with artists including ELO and The Wailers.
Hawk, a longtime Pittsburgh singer-songwriter, has released three original albums and performed with several regional groups.
McCarthy, a veteran guitarist and educator with nearly four decades of experience, was recognized by the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania in 2019.
Together, they deliver a song that honors a disappearing breed of performers who measure success not simply in fame or fortune, but in miles traveled, audiences moved, and songs shared.
“Last of the Highway Troubadours” arrives November 13, 2026, reminding listeners that sometimes the journey matters more than the destination.
Single Information
Artist: Acoustic Union
Single: Last of the Highway Troubadours
Release Date: November 13, 2026
Songwriters: Joe Birch, Kevin McCarthy & John Vento
Engineer: Doug Kasper
ISRC: QZWDE2638469
Official Website: https://theacousticunion.com/