Cliff & Susan are not your average husband-and-wife duo. Their partnership is as harmonious as their music, which blends traditional country roots with a modern flair that’s all their own. Hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas, the pair has captivated audiences with their electrifying performances and undeniable chemistry, both on and off the stage. Their latest single, “Waiting On You,” is a testament to their songwriting prowess and their ability to deliver heartfelt stories wrapped in unforgettable melodies. It’s a standout track, that comes on the heels of their much-anticipated album, Fiddle & Keys, a project that showcases their signature blend of fiddle-driven energy and soulful piano ballads.
A Love Story in Harmony
Cliff Prowse and Susan Erwin met through a shared passion for music. Susan, a classically trained pianist with a rich, soulful voice, had been carving out her niche as a solo artist. Cliff, a skilled guitarist, singer, and fiddler, was a sought-after collaborator in the regional country scene. When their paths crossed at a Nashville songwriting workshop in 2016, the spark was instant.
“There was this energy between us, musically and personally,” recalls Susan. “It was like we’d been waiting for each other to complete the puzzle.”
Their connection quickly grew into both a romantic and professional partnership. They married in 2017 and decided to pursue their musical dreams as a duo, combining their talents into a unique sound they call “Fiddle & Keys,” a nod to their instrumental specialties.
The Making of “Waiting On You”
“Waiting On You,” is a tender yet powerful ballad about longing and the delicate balance of patience and vulnerability in relationships. Written during a quiet afternoon at their home studio, the song draws on the duo’s own experiences of love and perseverance.
“Cliff started with this haunting fiddle line, and I immediately felt the story unfold in my mind,” Susan explains. “It’s about those moments when you’re giving your all but waiting for someone else to take that leap with you.”
The track’s production is lush and evocative, featuring Cliff’s soaring fiddle melodies interwoven with Susan’s delicate piano chords. Their vocals, rich with raw emotion, create a perfect harmony that amplifies the song’s themes. Fans have likened the track to a blend of Kacey Musgraves’ introspective lyricism and the timeless warmth of George Strait’s ballads.
Fiddle & Keys: A Journey Through Sound
The album Fiddle & Keys is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a journey through the couple’s shared love for music and storytelling. Spanning twelve tracks, the album showcases the full spectrum of their artistry, from high-energy anthems to intimate ballads.
The title track, “Fiddle & Keys,” is a rollicking celebration of their musical dynamic, with Cliff’s fiery fiddle dueling against Susan’s piano riffs in a playful, toe-tapping showcase. Meanwhile, songs like “Neon Dreams” and “Better Than a Country Song” reflect their lives as touring musicians, capturing the joy and challenges of balancing their art with their personal lives.
One of the album’s standout moments is “A Song for Grandad,” a contemplative track about fate and resilience. It’s a song that resonates deeply with their audience, many of whom have followed the couple’s journey from small-town gigs to international stages.
A Life on the Road
Cliff & Susan are no strangers to the grind of a touring musician’s life. Over the years, they’ve performed everywhere from honky-tonks in Arkansas to festivals in Europe and Asia. Their live shows are a testament to their versatility and charisma, featuring a mix of originals, crowd-pleasing covers, and impromptu jam sessions that often leave audiences in awe.
“We love connecting with people through our music,” says Cliff. “The energy we get from a live crowd is unlike anything else.”
Their relentless work ethic and commitment to their craft have earned them a loyal following, as well as accolades within the music industry. Yet, despite their growing success, they remain refreshingly grounded.
“Our goal is to share our music and bring people together,” Susan adds. “Whether it’s 50 people in a small venue or thousands at a festival, every show matters.”
Building a Legacy
Cliff & Susan aren’t just focused on their own music—they’re also passionate about fostering talent in their community. Through workshops and mentorship programs, they’ve helped aspiring artists navigate the challenges of the music business.
“We’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors in our lives, and we want to pay it forward,” says Cliff. “There’s so much talent out there, and we want to help others find their voice.”
As they look to the future, the duo shows no signs of slowing down. With plans for a national tour, new music in the works, and a growing fan base, Cliff & Susan are poised to make an even bigger impact on the country music scene.
The Heart of Cliff & Susan
What sets Cliff & Susan apart isn’t just their musical talent—it’s their authenticity. Whether they’re performing on stage, writing in the studio, or sharing their journey on social media, their love for each other and their craft shines through.
“Music brought us together, and it’s the thread that ties everything in our lives,” says Susan. “It’s a gift we don’t take for granted.”
For fans of country music looking for something fresh yet deeply rooted in tradition, Cliff & Susan are a duo to watch. With Fiddle & Keys and “Waiting On You,” they’ve crafted a sound that’s as timeless as it is innovative—a perfect reflection of their love story and the journey that lies ahead.
