First Impression Archives

NYCS First Impression: Keith Urban ‘THE SPEED OF NOW Part 1’

September 18, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

There is no one like Keith Urban in the music industry. For over twenty years, we have had the pleasure of watching Urban evolve as a musician, songwriter, and bonafide superstar. He continues to deliver music that is true to who he is in the moment, blending sounds across genres. His newest LP, THE SPEED OF NOW Part 1 marks the singer’s 11th full-length record, and it is Urban at his finest.

Each and every one of the sixteen tracks are cohesive, yet impactful individually. Although the production of each song may be different and genre-bending is evident, every song focuses on the importance of ‘now’ and ultimately not waiting to speak your truth. In the reflective, yet nostalgic tune, “Live With,” Urban explores the narrative that the goal is to live a life you love, rather than the life someone expects you to live. “We Were” of course, both the original track and the feature with writer, Eric Church, culminates this idea, affirming that our choices set us up for the rest of our lives.

Along with Church, Urban collaborates with funk/pop icon Nile Rodgers and Breland, as well as, megastar P!NK on the opening tracks. “Out The Cage” with Breland and Nile Rodgers is a funky, electronica track that begs fans to listen to it. The song is one that moves you solely based on production alone. However, the cut with P!NK, “One Too Many” is a vocally-driven ballad. The duet showcases how well the two singers’ voices blend together in a buttery and soulful jam.

“I spent all my money drinking on my own, yeah / In this bar just sat here, staring at my phone / And I keep second-guessing where did I go wrong / I know I’m proud, but I’ve had one too many- come take me home”

The bigger picture is apparent in songs like “Polaroid” and “Say Something.” The former captures the bittersweet passing of time through the lens of photographs. The instant-gratification track is all about making choices that are right for your life. The latter, which is arguably one of the most important on the record, “Say Something” is an unequivocal plea to human beings to speak your truth, to stand up for what you believe in, and use your voice as an action tool. In today’s day and age, this is even more crucial, and Urban is taking it upon himself to empower the voiceless.

“From track to track there’s a spirit I’m seeking to capture from beginning to end,” Urban shares about his record, “There’s a fluidity to these songs. It’s multi-dimensional and multi-faceted because truly we have more in common than different.”

The record continues to flow into songs with a simpler message. Love songs like “God Whispered Your Name” and “Ain’t Like A Woman” fit right into Urban’s wheelhouse, as an expression of true love is apparent in his relationship with his beautiful and successful wife, Nicole Kidman. Both of these songs, sonically, will appeal to long-time fans of Urban.

Of course with love, also comes heartbreak. “Superman” and “Change Your Mind” both perpetuate heartbreak in different ways. “Superman” is an upbeat tune that features sad lyrics. Reflecting on a broken relationship, where you felt on top of the world is bittersweet, and Urban expresses this effortlessly. On the other hand, “Change Your Mind” is a slow burn song. It expresses the dissolution of a relationship with brooding and self-deprecating lyrics, backed by just a simple guitar production.

“I was the problem, self-sabotaging / You had no option / You had to go when you had to go / And I couldn’t stop it / I was not willing to bend / You said it, again and again, / You need a heart that better fits you”

Overall this record is not going to appeal to one particular fan, it will appeal to the masses. There is a song for everyone on this project, but that is exactly what we have come to love from the superstar. He makes music for the soul, sets higher standards for himself, while ridding himself of any parameters or boundaries, and just creates. Good music is good music and Urban knows it.

To keep up with Keith Urban follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

NYCS Picks:

“Say Something”
“One Too Many” (duet with P!NK)
“Change Your Mind”
“Live With”

THE SPEED OF NOW Part 1 TRACKLIST:

Out The Cage (featuring Breland and Nile Rodgers)
One Too Many(duet with P!NK)
Live With
Superman
Change Your Mind
Forever
Say Something
Soul Food
Ain’t Like A Woman
With You
Tumbleweed
God Whispered Your Name
Polaroid
Better Than I Am
We Were
We Were (featuring Eric Church)

THE SPEED OF NOW PART 1 is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police, and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Kelsea Ballerini ‘ballerini’

September 12, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Lucie Bernheim

Kelsea Ballerini new album

On March 20th, Kelsea Ballerini put out her third studio album, kelsea, a project full of life and created to be sung loud at parties and arena concerts. She had so many plans that went hand-in-hand with that release, and when everything was put on pause, those plans were put on hold. While a fantastic record, the singer-songwriter decided she wanted to reimagine the songs and dive even deeper into the writing itself, so she released a new version of the album titled ballerini on September 11th.

“overshare”, which was a smooth, pop-country jam on kelsea is now a groovy, folksy, and even stronger album opener. This time around, with a few lyrical and melodic changes that make you want to play it on repeat, it feels back-porch personal, which is the very intent of ballerini.

“Yeah I know there are moments that I’m missing / If I’d just shut up and listen, but /
Silence makes me scared / So then I overshare,” she sings over a catchy guitar.

“club” and “the way i used to” are examples of big, arena tour-ready songs that are turned into gorgeous piano ballads. Lyrically, they always captured some of the insecurities that come with being young and going out, but now they feel like you’ve stayed up too late and you’re too in your head.

“love me like a girl” is a stunning, perfectly quiet moment. On the new version, Ballerini leaves space and uses her voice as an instrument. Harmonies and serene guitars surround the song in a perfectly understated way, making it all about the lyrics.

“I wish you could get inside my head/Baby, maybe then, you’d understand/It doesn’t mean that you’re not my whole world/But I wish you could love me like a girl.”

“bragger”, “hole in the bottle” and “love and hate” are three of the most country songs, and particularly on “love and hate” does Ballerini show off her Knoxville roots. “needy” and “half of my hometown” stay true to their original form, but because of the production choices, listeners are really able to focus on what she’s saying and how great of a writer she truly is.

Ballerini worked with longtime friend and frequent kelsea collaborator Jimmy Robbins to complete and produce the album together. They made a soulful, subtle record that really allows fans to dig into who Kelsea Ballerini is at the core.

ballerini proves that often times, artists don’t need all the bells and whistles and glitter that surround music today. At least if you can tell a story in the way Kelsea Ballerini can. If kelsea was self-aware, ballerini is all about intuition. We’ve met the colorful, vibrant Kelsea, but now we’ve formally met the girl behind the songs. Nice to really meet you again, Kelsea Ballerini.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kelsea Ballerini releases.

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

ballerini is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music‘ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

ballerini TRACKLIST

1. overshare (ballerini album version)

2. club (ballerini album version)

3. homecoming queen? (ballerini album version)

4. the other girl (ballerini album version)

5. love me like a girl (ballerini album version)

6. love and hate (ballerini album version)

7. bragger (ballerini album version)

8. hole in the bottle (ballerini album version)

9. half of my hometown (ballerini album version)

10. the way i used to (ballerini album version)

11. needy (ballerini album version)

12. a country song (ballerini album version)

13. la (ballerini album version)

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression: Mickey Guyton EP ‘Bridges’

September 11, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Lucie Bernheim

2020 has been one of the most turbulent years in history. Between a pandemic, civil unrest, and natural disasters, it seems like it’s never-ending. With all the chaos comes clarity, though, and Mickey Guyton, one of country music’s best vocalists, has used her voice in every way, which resulted in her fantastic new EP, Bridges, out today, September 11th.

The current single and project opener, “Heaven Down Here” is the perfect song for uncertain times. The track was written by Guyton, and legends Gordie Sampson, Josh Kear, and Hilary Lindsay. Guyton spends the verses speaking to God, asking him to send a little light down to Earth. It’s the kind of anthem everyone wants to hear right now.

“If you got a little love/Left in your back pocket/Rain it down like pennies/In this wishing well of tears/I know that you’re busy/But if you could hear me talking/We could use a little more heaven down here,” Guyton sings hopefully on the chorus.

The title track “Bridges” captures the feeling of hope similarly to “Heaven Down Here”, but from a different lens. Guyton is not only a talented singer and songwriter, but she is constantly using her platform to lift other women up and to speak on topics that move her.

“Gonna need more than prayers and wishes to build those bridges, bridges, bridges/It’s gonna take way more work to fix it, gotta build those bridges.”

Sonically, it feels distinctly pop country, but has Gospel undertones that make Guyton’s voice particularly shine. There are fun moments like “Rosé” and “Salt” that showcase Guyton’s effortless charm and mystique. “Rosé” is a front-porch-sipping type of track, whereas “Salt” is like a leather jacket and a red lip. Both have completely different vibes and show even more sides to who Guyton is as a person and artist.

“Two years ago, this project didn’t feel like it was even a possibility,” shares Guyton. “This EP proves that in your darkest moments, you can have your biggest breakthroughs. I think back to all of the obstacles in my life and career, including writing and recording most of this EP in quarantine during a time of social unrest, and how it has all led to the birth of this beautiful project. I hope these songs provide others with the same happiness and strength they have provided me in these uncertain times.”

“What Are You Gonna Tell Her” is an absolute show stopper of a song. The introduction is haunting; the sound of a toy piano before Guyton’s precise vocal delivery comes in. “She thinks love is love and if/You work hard, that’s enough/Skin’s just skin and it doesn’t matter,” she sings softly on the first verse. As each verse builds, her voice gets louder and stronger with more intent. “And that her friend’s older brother’s gonna keep his hands to himself/And that somebody’s gon’ believe her when she tells/But what are you gonna tell her?/When she’s wrong?” Guyton states this so plain and simple, and perhaps that’s part of what makes it so heartbreaking. Because it’s the definition of three chords and the truth.

Finally, the EP closes with the critically acclaimed “Black Like Me”, a song equally catchy and thought-provoking. Released during the start of the protests in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, Guyton tells her story of being a Black person living in America. “I’m an adult. I’m a woman going through real shit – and my life isn’t light and fluffy,” she said in a press release. “Black Like Me” covers that side of Guyton; the side that faces the truth, even when it hurts.

Mickey Guyton is one of those rare artists who you know you’re lucky to be listening to their music in real-time. She has so much to say – and she says it well. Guyton freed herself from the chains of country radio, so she could figure out exactly how to use her voice. And once she did that, nothing could hold her back anymore, as heard on Bridges. “I realize the power in truth and love, the power in your voice,” she says. “What you do with it, is up to you.”

Bridges Track Listing:

“Heaven Down Here”* (Mickey Guyton, Gordie Sampson, Josh Kear, Hillary Lindsey)
“Bridges”* (Mickey Guyton, Karen Kosowski, Victoria Banks, Emma-Lee)
“What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”* (Mickey Guyton, Karen Kosowski, Victoria Banks, Emma-Lee)
“Rosé”** (Mickey Guyton, Victoria Banks, Karen Kosowski)
“Salt”* (Mickey Guyton, Jesse Frasure, Cary Barlowe, Steven Lee Olsen)
“Black Like Me”+ (Mickey Guyton, Nathan Chapman, Fraser Churchill, Emma Davidson-Dillon)

*Produced by Karen Kosowski
**Produced by Karen Kosowki and Forest Whitehead
+Produced by Nathan Chapman and Forest Whitehead

NYCS Staff Picks:

“What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”
“Bridges”
“Black Like Me”

To keep up with Mickey Guyton, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

‘Bridges’ is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression: Riley Green ‘IF IT WASN’T FOR TRUCKS’

September 11, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

We have come to expect bold, true-blue honesty from Riley Green, and that’s just what we get with his latest release. Full of personal storytelling, traditional country vibes, and heart, IF IT WASN’T FOR TRUCKS is another peek into Green’s talent, authenticity, and soul.

All co-written by Green himself, each of the five songs are all sprinkled with a hint of charm and a whole lot of nostalgia. All reflective of the singer-songwriter’s personal journey, the collection of songs shares his values and Jacksonville, Alabama roots.

The opening track “Jesus and Wranglers” is a prideful tune about being unapologetically you. It also just so happens to be an ode to his hometown and country-boy living. “If I Didn’t Wear Boots” amplifies the same message, but manifests as a quasi-love song. With lyrics about gaining courage from a drink and charm from his boots, it has Green written all over it.

The center track and quite possibly the anchor of the whole project, “Better Than Me” is a quarantine track that gave us light during these crazy times. This version features country singer Randy Owen, but the messages continue to be the same. An emotional track, Green acknowledges the mixed feelings that have come from quarantine, but leans on his faith during this time, and has given way to the notion that God must know better than him. In other words, take each day one step at a time, find the goodness and positive thoughts, and remember that there is a purpose and a reason for everything.

“Doing some old friend checking in / It seems like where I’m going might be better than where I’ve been / With all this going on / Found the right in all his wrong / I finally see / Good Lord knows better than me”

Similarly, “Behind The Times” acknowledges that sometimes less modern people know more than we do. Green shares lessons that he has learned from someone he deems “behind the times.” I think we can all learn a little bit from this song.

Finally, the title track “If It Wasn’t For Trucks” is an appreciation song for everything a truck symbolizes for a good-ole country boy. Without being generic, Green finds a way to reminisce through his experiences of love, loss, grief, and risk, while weaving the common thread of having his truck through all of those emotions.

“Where would I have raised all that hell / And talk to God all by myself / How would I have got to Tennessee / Without a bucket seat / Where was I suppose to cry that July day grandaddy died”

These songs are a look into Green’s next full-length project, slated to be released sometime next year. Until then, the singer and his team have (virtually) invited fans for a look into his world. ‘The Golden Saw Series’ benefits musicians, who out of work due to the global pandemic. Green’s #GETTHATBANDABEER and ACM Lifting Lives COVID-19 Response Fund continue to assist members of the community that are in need. Green and special guests will continue to play virtual shows at the Alabama venue through most of September.

To keep up with Riley Green follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

NYCS Picks:

“Jesus and Wranglers”
“Better Than Me”

IF IT WASN’T FOR TRUCKS Tracklist:

Jesus and Wranglers
If I Didn’t Wear Boots
Better Than Me featuring Randy Owen
If It Wasn’t For Trucks
Behind The Times

IF IT WASN’T FOR TRUCKS is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police, and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression: Tyler Rich ‘Two Thousand Miles’

September 4, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, News /by Dylan Bestler

Tyler Rich Two Thousand Miles

It was 2014 when country newcomer, Tyler Rich released his debut single, “Radio.” Six years later, the California native finally has his first full-length album out. The title, Two Thousand Miles signifies the distance from Los Angeles to Nashville and the journey of Rich’s career as a singer-songwriter. The album contains the five tracks from his 2018 self-titled EP, his three previously released singles, “Leave Her Wild,” “Rather Be Us,” and “Feels Like Home,” and three brand new songs. Rich had a hand in writing all but three songs on the record.

“Between Sabina (his wife), my record deal, and the road, my life has been a constant four-year back-and-forth between both places,” the Yuba City-born artist said. “Almost every song that came into this project was inspired by that crazy grind and making that relationship work. It was clearly the obvious title for the first official chapter of my career.”

His most recent release, the Irish folk-sounding bar anthem, “Feels Like Home,” begins the album. Rich sings about the comfort of being around friendly strangers who are all in the same boat as him. The bar is a safe place where everyone can get along and leave behind all their worries. Rich included home-videos from fans in the new music video. Watch below:

Rich’s biggest song to date, “The Difference,” peaked at number 19 on the Billboard Hot Country charts and serves as the third track on the album. “The Difference” is a catchy, well written song by Rhett Akins, Ben Burgess, Devin Dawson, and Jacob Durrett, that emphasizes the little things that make up serious and casual relationships. For example, there is a difference between asking her ‘what’s going on?’ and ‘how’s your day?’ and Rich sings that he wants to be the difference on the serious side of things. “11:11” follows as another song that contains clever lyrics. Written by Andrew Dorff, Jon Nite, and Lindsay Rimes, “11:11” is based on the theory that when someone spots this specific time on a digital clock and makes a wish, it will come true, so the singer uses this as his last hope to get his former lover back in his arms.

Both “Leave Her Wild” and “Rather Be Us” were released in 2019, the latter of which reminds those in relationships to not compare themselves to other couples, especially the ones on Instagram going on vacation every other week. Social media does not always reflect what things are actually like, and you don’t need to be flashy to be in a healthy relationship. “Leave Her Wild” is another folk-sounding, heavy string production song about a free-spirited girl. Written by Rich, Chris DeStefano, and Jon Nite, the singer says if you are lucky enough to find a girl like that, do not try and change her; love and leave her wild. Trying to tame someone will only hurt her and the relationship in the long-term.

The first new song, “Still Love You,” explains the complications between loving and liking someone, and how you can feel the first without the last. Rich sings of a girl who mistreated him and ended up breaking his heart. He hates her for it but cannot understand why he is still in love and wants her back. The next new track, “Here With You,” has a similar theme to Morgan Wallen’s “Chasing You.” Even though the protagonist in the story is physically with someone else, he is still with his ex, emotionally. The last new song, “Real Love,” was written shortly after Rich got engaged. It describes all the hardships one must go through before stumbling upon the man/woman who is right for you.

The album ends with the last three tracks from his 2018 EP, “Take It Or Leave It,” “Adrenaline,” and his country twist of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.” This chart-topping, pop hit has been a staple in Rich’s live sets and he stated in a recent press release that it was always the song that would get him the most tips when he played in casino lounges.

Two Thousand Miles is the perfect name for the album because it covers a lot of ground as a whole. Lyrically, Rich expresses themes that are true to himself, but leaves room for others to relate, as well. Musically, he uses his influence from classic and pop country, folk, indie, and alternative rock to create a sound unique to him. It was long journey for Rich to get where he is today, but we hope this is only just the beginning from the young and talented performer.

Two Thousand Miles Track List
1. “Feels Like Home” | Written by Tyler Rich, Andrew DeRoberts, Jon Nite
2. “Still Love You” | Written by Tyler Rich, Andy Albert, Lindsay Rimes
3. “The Difference” | Written by Rhett Akins, Ben Burgess, Devin Dawson, Jacob Durrett
4. “11:11” | Written by Andrew Dorff, Jon Nite, Lindsay Rimes
5. “Here With You” | Written by Tyler Rich, Josh Hoge, Matt McVaney
6. “Leave Her Wild” | Written by Tyler Rich, Chris DeStefano, Jon Nite
7. “Real Love” | Written by Tyler Rich, Andy Albert, Lindsay Rimes
8. “Rather Be Us” | Written by Tyler Rich, Lindsay Rimes, Brad Tursi
9. “Take It Or Leave It” | Written by Tyler Rich, Jaron Boyer, Ben Stennis
10. “Adrenaline” | Written by Tyler Rich, Jordan Baum, Johan Lindbrandt, Michael McNamara
11. “Billie Jean” | Written by Michael Jackson

NYCS Picks

Here With You
Still Love You
Leave Her Wild

To keep up with Tyler Rich follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Two Thousand Miles is now available everywhere you buy or stream music.Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression HARDY – ‘A ROCK’

September 4, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Christina Bosch

“We’re all just livin’ life on a rock”

Brilliant songwriting, masterful producing, and 12 completely cohesive tracks, HARDY’s debut project, A ROCK, available everywhere today (9/4) continues to prove that the sought after songwriter-artist has something powerful to say with his music. Although this is his first solo project released with his label Big Loud, HARDY has already given fans a ton of music to get to know his persona and what truly makes him tick. His masterpiece of features, HiXTAPE Vol. 1 gave fans all over the country a taste of what it’s like to grow up in the south, giving the peaceful dirt roads or “ain’t nothin’ out here” towns an irresistible appeal. When deciding on releasing his debut full-length album, HARDY went to work, writing and delivering 12 songs to his team, that he knew would make up the project.

A ROCK takes listeners through a lifetime of moments; joy, grief, compassion, distress, and forgiveness showcasing clever wordplay and profound melodies. For each emotion singled out, there is a contrasting feeling for those who might not be going through that exact scenario. While “BOYFRIEND”, a track inspired by his girlfriend Caleigh, talks about a couple deciding to take their love to the next level and taking the ultimate plunge into marriage, “BOOTS” an angst-filled breakup song and whether its a person you are moving on from or this horrible pandemic we suggest turning it up loud.

Although each track shines on its own, an absolute stand out is “So Close” which features his labelmate, Ashland Craft, and was written with Hillary Lindsay and Mark Holman over Zoom during the quarantine. A newcomer to the scene, Craft’s debut “Trainwreck” sets the stage for a powerful female artist and this duet lets her dynamic vocals shine. Similarly, the track allows HARDY’s vocals to soar as they harmonize singing about a couple being so close in proximity and then so close to making it, before ultimately ending their relationship. In our interview to discuss the project, HARDY explains how he took the time to meticulously cut the vocals at his in-home studio. “I did take after take after take, and did all of the harmonies and I sent it back to Mark [Holman], and I said ‘I know this is a lot but I want it to sound like a freakin’ Def Leppard song.” Ultimately deciding that he wanted the song to be a duet, he loved Craft’s gritty vibe so it was a perfect fit.

It’s not all love or breakups on A ROCK, “WHERE YA AT” is primed and ready for the first live show back in a room full of rowdy country fans. Smattering electric guitars give a rock n roll feel with lyrics that beg fans to scream them back wearing their redneck badge high. HARDY spitfires cities across this great nation and proclaims “Country pride is countrywide / yea we’re all climbing that podunk ladder / so put your long neck up if you got a little hick in your blood then it really don’t matter, where ya at.” Continuing the pride in his home state of Mississippi and his redneck ways, “UNAPOLOGETICALLY COUNTRY AS HELL” written with Smith Ahnquist, Nick Donley, Jake Mitchell, HARDY recognizes the southern boy cliches and wears them like a badge of honor.

Our favorite from HiXTAPE Vol. 1, “One Beer” which features Devin Dawson and Lauren Alaina is also included and is currently top 20 at country radio and climbing. The ultimate story song and a modern-day “There Goes My Life” the classic Kenny Chesney tune, “One Beer” not only highlights the good that can come out of mistakes but the sonogram heartbeat sound that drums through the track will have anyone who is a parent in tears, remembering hearing their babies heartbeat for the first time.

A tribute to those we’ve loved and lost, “GIVE HEAVEN SOME HELL” is another standout, allowing a sentimental softer side of HARDY to emerge. During a celestial conversation with someone who has passed on, the lyrics are filled with sensational imagery of a better place that we can only imagine. “Make some thunder, make ’em wonder how you got in / Hide your beer, hide your clear from the man upstairs / Crank it loud, hold it down ’til I get there And when I do, I hope you got some new stories to tell / ‘Til then, give Heaven some hell”.

The title track “A ROCK” closes the album and serves as a quiet reflection of each of the stories you just listened to, relating them to something as simple as a rock and the multiple meanings it can have. Letting us into his genius songwriting brain, HARDY tells us in our exclusive interview: “I was just driving down the road one day and my mind was just going 100 mph like it does, and I can’t remember when or where I was but I had this weird thought of how important a rock is to lot of moments in your life,” he continues “That is what your tombstone is made out of, what rings are made out of, and then in this weird way I started thinking about how iron starts out as a rock, if it wasn’t for that, we wouldn’t have anything made of metal so the entire world comes from a rock and then the Earth is one big rock.” The quiet production allows you to zoom out and focus on the story.

It’s safe to say that with the release of A ROCK, HARDY has solidified his place in the genre as a bonafide star, an absolute fan-favorite, and a lyrical genius.

NYCS Picks:

“So Close”
“A Rock”
“Broke Boy”
“One Beer”

To keep up with HARDY follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“TRUCK” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Ryan Griffin ‘Name On It’

August 28, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erin Crosby

In September 2019, the “Woulda Left Me Too” singer released the first single “Right Here Right Now” for this project. Looking back, Ryan Griffin’s new EP Name On It was a year in the making after releasing five out of the six tracks over almost a 12-month period. Now, just shy of the “Right Here Right Now” one-year anniversary of its release, Name On It has been molded into an entire collection of memories from the many releases. There’s just one song left on the EP that has not yet been heard titled “All Over Again”.

The first few words have a similar sentiment to Kane Brown’s touching tribute, “For My Daughter” with “I watched my brothers and my daddy / and I learned what not to do”. Though, the rest of the story that Griffin narrates takes on its own personality. The new songs fans get to experience for the first time today, “All Over Again” is composed of a dense modernization of the pop-country sound that is familiar and popular in the genre today.

Name On It marks the first series of songs from Griffin since 2017, which was when his debut EP Sake of the Summer was released. A lot has changed for the artist since then, though the individualistic creation that is portrayed on either project remains the same. After being signed to a major record label, and Name On It is the first project following the agreement, the EP goes along with the singer-songwriter that introduced himself three years ago. With irrefutable growth, Griffin continues to be a performer who lives and entertains in a way that is true to himself.

Name On It Tracklist

1. Right Here Right Now (Ryan Griffin, Josh London, Jason Massey)

2. Name On It (Ryan Griffin, Nicolle Galyon, Mark Trussell)

3. All Over Again (Ryan Griffin, Mark Trussell, Emily Weisband)

4. Down (Ryan Griffin, Cameron Badell, Mark Trussell)

5. Going Going Gone (Ryan Griffin, Jason Duke, Benjamin Johnson)

6. One Prayer Left (Ryan Griffin, Cameron Bedell, Thomas Finchum)

To keep up with Ryan Griffin, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

‘Name On It’ is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police, and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

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NYCS First Impression: Josh Turner ‘Country State of Mind’

August 26, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erin Crosby

The “Your Man” country singer-songwriter, whose 2003 debut album Long Black Train marked the beginning of a successful career in the mainstream music industry, has returned two years after his latest album I Serve A Savior. Josh Turner’s new album Country State of Mind features seven collaborations and five standalone tracks, all of which are new renditions of previous country hits such as Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me” and Randy Travis’ “Forever and Ever, Amen”. In fact, the two country legends lay down vocals in this project from Turner, which ensures an intriguing production from these iconic partnerships.

After Travis’ stroke in 2013, which caused him to suffer from aphasia, the world-renowned artist and entertainer returned to the music world with his latest single “Fools Love Affair” that was released in July. Now, the long-serving influence has added to the excitement of his comeback with Turner through a performance that, throughout his entire career, is rare. Travis’ only collaborations can be found on his 1990 album Heroes and Friends where four other country veterans like Tammy Wynette, George Jones, and Merle Haggard are recognized, which makes Turner’s new rendition of “Forever and Ever, Amen”, with help from Travis, that much more compelling.

“I’m gonna love you forever, forever and ever, Amen / As long as old men sit and talk about the weather / As long as old women sit and talk about old men”

Country State of Mind is the first album from Turner since one of his tour buses crashed in central California in September 2019 where one of his crew members, David Turner, lost his life and seven others suffered severe injuries. Though Turner was not on the bus, the loss and anguish affected him, the families involved, and the industry itself.

This new project that has taken place through the many hands and voices involved is, if nothing else, a celebration of life and music. It’s a showcase of both traditional and modern country with contemporary artists like Maddie & Tae and Runaway June, who are also featured on the project alongside several matured entertainers of country music.

Country State of Mind Track Listing:

I’m No Stranger To The Rain
I’ve Got It Made (Duet with John Anderson)
Why Me (Duet with Kris Kristofferson)
Country State Of Mind (Duet with Chris Janson)
I Can Tell By The Way You Dance
Alone And Forsaken (Featuring Allison Moorer)
Forever And Ever, Amen (With Special Guest Randy Travis)
Midnight In Montgomery
Good Ol’ Boys
You Don’t Seem To Miss Me (Featuring Runaway June)
Desperately (Featuring Maddie & Tae)
The Caretaker

To keep up with Josh Turner, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

‘Country State of Mind’ is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police, and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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Brandon Ratcliff Releases Debut EP, ‘Sometimes Always Never’

August 21, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Brianna Vacca

Louisiana-native, Brandon Ratcliff is quickly making himself known as an artist to keep an eye on. Today, the singer-songwriter released his debut EP, Sometimes Always Never.

Previously released in October 2018, “Rules of Breaking Up” marks the EP’s first track. The fan-favorite song made waves as it gained over a million streams on Spotify early on and is now currently sitting with well over seven million streams. It’s a contemporary country sonic landscape infused with pop and R&B influences. In the catchy tune, Ratcliff sings about how whoever wrote the so-called “rules” for a breakup, have never experienced the pull of his ex-lover.

“Number in My Phone,” co-written with Pete Good, and A.J Babcock, trails off of “Rules of Breaking Up” and goes through the intangible stages a phone number can go through. It can start out as just a good time, “just met” kind of relationship phone number into so much more, and then back to just a phone number of the past. It sustains the pop and r&b infuses that the first track possesses.

“Slow Down Hometown” is slower and more stripped-down than the latter, but continues the heartbreak theme as Ratcliff sings about the loss of moving on from your hometown as we all grow up.

“Slow down hometown // Why you gotta move so fast // Tell me why it feels like // I’m the only one looking back // Oh home sweet hometown // I hope that I made you proud // I wish you well‚ it hurts like hell // But you’re somebody else’s now.”

Next up, “Follow” more than certainly picks up the beat and is the collection’s first love offering of happy love.

The title track, “Sometimes Always Never” closes out the EP and parallels an acoustic feel while showcasing its acoustic guitar fretwork with sturdy pulse percussion. It’s a strong danceable track to conclude the well-crafted collection of songs.

The singer-songwriter was not only our very first Swag Spotlight, but the budding star also earned a spot on our Top 10 Artists to Watch of 2019. That same year he opened up for Kelsea Ballerini on her Miss Me More tour alongside Brett Young.

To keep up with Brandon Ratcliff, Follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Sometimes, Always, Never is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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NYCS First Impression Tucker Beathard ‘King’

August 21, 2020/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

Tucker Beathard is an expert at taking personal journal entries and turning them into a lyrical masterpiece with unique music to accompany the heartfelt words. Unlike some artists in the genre, Beathard does not hide any part of who he is from his fans. From heartbreak to grief to joy, the singer-songwriter shares it all on his brand new record KING.

“I decided to name this album in honor of my little brother Clay, with King being his middle name,” Beathard shared via his social media, adding, “From top to bottom this album is a product of the highs and lows, and everything in between that the past few years have been. Through all of it, I’ve realized that at the end of the day there’s only one true King, and his kingdom is not of this world.”

This sentiment perfectly reflects the singer’s new project. Each of the thirteen tracks portrays a different journey that Beathard has experienced, and allows fans a deeper look into his soul and artistry. Songs like “Find Me Here” and “I Ain’t Without You” root the album in faith, which seems to be a driving force in the singer’s life.

One of the most poignant songs of the whole project is “I Ain’t Without You.” The heartbreaking, somber ballad once again leans on the power faith. Written about his late brother’s untimely passing, the singer-songwriter wrote the track with his father, fellow songwriter, Casey Beathard. Being able to write such a powerful and personal song is truly what Beathard does best. “So I keep holdin’ on with everything I got in me / To every piece of your memory so the world can see / I ain’t, I ain’t, I ain’t without you”

Of course, love and heartbreak also remain as pillars of Beathard’s unique musical style. In “Can’t Stay Here’ the recording artist sings about an on-again-off-again relationship, finally making the decision that decision to break-up and end the back and forth. The concept is relatable, yet heartbreaking. In the song, Beathard somehow finds a way to convey strength in a complicated and difficult situation, a talent that truly resonates across all his songs. “You Would Think” is another powerful tune that explores the intricacies of heartbreak.

“Faithful” and “Miss You Now” further explore love and heartbreak. The former is about a couple that is ready to give their all to each other, while the heart-pumping “Miss You Now” is full of Beathard’s signature, gritty voice as it explores all the things that you remind you of a person, but gently, the settings and the objects start to fade, yet the memories remain. Although written in memory of his brother, this song can easily be portrayed as a song about a romantic relationship too.

For fans that prefer the rock-country side of Beathard, “Better Than Me” and “Paper Town” are for you. The former is a previously released jam that pokes fun at the break-up tunes that were written during the punk-rock days of bands like Simple Plan and Blink 182. The music video makes the song really come to life, and it is the perfect track for live shows. “Paper Town” is another guitar-heavy tune that is made for long car rides with the windows down; despite, the deep and thought-provoking content. “Too Drunk” is another song, a drinking song, that fans must add to their car playlist.

Long time fans of Beathard might recognize one of our favorite tracks, “20/10 TN.” The song has been around for years, but the singer finally recorded it. The football-inspired song is full of imagery about love and redemption. “Just had to let you know, it’s 7-zip Tennessee / And by the way I meant to say, that I’m sorry ‘bout last night / I didn’t mean to make you cry / Did you really mean goodbye?”

Beathard is one of the most promising artists in the Nashville scene right now. He knows exactly who he is and the music he wants to release to fans. If he continues down this trajectory, we are confident that the singer will cement himself in country music history. KING is just another example of his one of a kind talent.

NYCS Picks:

“20/10 TN”
“Miss You Now”
“I Ain’t Without You”

KING Tracklist:

Better Than Me
You Would Think
One Upper
20/10 TN
Paper Town
You On
Miss You Now
Only
Find Me Here
Too Drunk
Faithful
Can’t Stay Here
I Ain’t Without You

To keep up with Tucker Beathard follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

King is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police, and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook: