Nashville duo Thelma & James, MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, debut their viral track “Happy Ever After You.”
MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, the Nashville-based married duo known as Thelma & James, have officially released their emotional new single, “Happy Ever After You.” Written during their first co-writing session in over ten years, the track is a deeply personal exploration of heartbreak and unresolved love.
The song gained viral traction after the duo shared a casual video performance online, amassing over five million views within days. Praise quickly followed from fans and industry luminaries alike, including John Mayer, Luke Combs, and Brandi Carlile, leading to an official release.
With its poignant chorus, the track delivers a heartfelt narrative:
“I got a hole in my heart damn near the size of Texas and I think you left it
I got a picture of you and me circa 2019
Don’t know why I kept it
I got a story I tell myself until my face is in the blue
But I got no happy ever after you.” 
Reflecting on the song’s creation, the duo shared, “We’ve always kept our music careers separate, but this song was different. Sometimes the best inspiration is right under your nose—or in this case, under your bed.”
The release follows a banner year for Porter, who co-hosted the CCMA Awards, earned Female Artist of the Year honors, and toured with Keith Urban and Parker McCollum.
“Happy Ever After You” is now streaming on all platforms, highlighting the undeniable chemistry of Thelma & James.
