The anthemic title track, composed with Will Kimbrough, served as a mission statement of sorts for Young, both personally and professionally, and Franklin's influence is apparent right from the opening lines: "Gonna start a revolution / made of action, not of words / Practicing the art of virtue / A Joyride on the learning curve."

Based in part on the positive response to her 2004 debut release, Plow to the End of the Row, Young was able to attract many of Nashville’s top session players including members of The Del McCoury Band to play on the CD.

The result was a noticeably more polished and professional sound that Young and her band, Little Sadie, would hone live in extensive touring throughout the latter half of the year.

Alongside the original songs and traditional tunes, The Art of Virtue featured a cover of the Grateful Dead's "Brokedown Palace".

Young used the release of the CD and subsequent concert tour to call attention to her involvement with the Food Routes Network, a non-profit organization that promotes sustainable agriculture and connects consumers with local farmers who are willing to sell direct.