Marking their 7th anniversary of performing together, rising musical duo Karli & James today unveiled a mesmerizing acoustic version of the iconic hit The Middle by Jimmy Eat World. The duo infuses their signature indie country vibe into this beloved track, delivering a fresh perspective that will resonate deeply with listeners. Karli & James’ The Middle is now available across all streaming platforms.

Inspired by their shared love for the song and its timeless message, Karli & James embarked on this project to offer their own interpretation of The Middle. With a mutual appreciation for the track’s nostalgic allure and universal themes, the duo saw an opportunity to craft a rendition that reflects their distinct musical style, showcasing the inspiring lyrics. Growing up on both sides of the Atlantic, they found solace in the song’s infectious melody and poignant message, making it a natural addition to their live set first.

“The Middle carries a powerful message of resilience and self-acceptance, which we believe is incredibly relevant, especially for young people coming of age in today’s world,” commented Karli (Chayne), half of the married country duo. “As they continue to captivate listeners with their unique blend of indie country charm on stage, the duo remains steadfast in their mission to inspire, uplift, and connect through the power of music all over the world.

Karli & James – The Middle – 2

What sets this version apart is its raw authenticity. Recorded in just a couple of takes, the duo captures the essence of their live performances, harnessing the spontaneity and intimacy that define their musical connection. The result is an acoustic rendition that captivates listeners to reminisce to a moment when they felt ‘stuck’ or ‘different’, inviting them to immerse in the significance of just being truly themselves, and the power that comes with that. Overall knowing it’s going to “be alright alright.”

About Karli & James

Pioneering a distinct blend of pure country music and indie rock, Karli & James began etching their place in the music scene in 2015 after a chance meeting in Nashville.  The duo, married in September 2019, creates a sound that they like to call “Leather and Lace Country”: A little bit Country, A little bit Rock n’ Roll, Strait-laced roots with a bit of edgy truth.

Karli & James have already gained recognition from Billboard, CMT, and MusicRow. Their early singles found success on streaming sites, earning spots on playlists like Spotify’s New Music Nashville and Apple Music’s Country Wide. Their debut single Mercy launched them to the top of the CMT Music 12-Pack Countdown and secured them an opening slot on Brandy Clark’s UK and US tours. They have also opened for Sara Evans, Thompson Square, Uncle Kracker, Lonestar, and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

As they continue to hone their unique sound, Karli & James also excel in live performances, having graced historic venues in Nashville and around the U.S. Upcoming dates are available on their website and social media sites: