Jack White on the Magic of Loretta Lynn and ‘Van Lear Rose’: ‘Outstanding and Life-Affirming’

Jack White reflects on producing Loretta Lynn’s 2004 album *Van Lear Rose*, which brought her music to a new generation and helped broaden interest in country music. A newly remastered edition, with an additional track, “Just to Have You Back”, is being reissued by White’s Third Man Records and returns to streaming after seven years.

The collaboration began when White, then 28, offered to produce a record during a visit to Lynn’s home; she was 71 and trusted him to work with his own band and distinctive sound. The album featured songs written by Lynn, including the duet “Portland Oregon”, and won a Grammy, although the single made little impact on country radio. White says the project shaped his later career and helped prompt his move to Tennessee.