Brandon Ratcliff Releases Debut EP, ‘Sometimes Always Never’

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Brandron Ratcliff - Sometimes Always Never

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.

 

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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 Tucker Beathard ‘King’

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Tucker Beathard

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:

  1. “20/10 TN”
  2. “Miss You Now”
  3. “I Ain’t Without You”

KING Tracklist:

  1. Better Than Me
  2. You Would Think
  3. One Upper
  4. 20/10 TN
  5. Paper Town
  6. You On
  7. Miss You Now
  8. Only
  9. Find Me Here
  10. Too Drunk
  11. Faithful
  12. Can’t Stay Here
  13. 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!

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NYCS First Impression: Tim McGraw ‘Here On Earth’

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Tim McGraw Here On Earth

GRAMMY award-winning artist Tim McGraw is back with his 16th studio album. HERE ON EARTH is the superstar’s first solo project in five years since Damn Country Music and takes listeners through a journey of emotive experiences. His most recent project was released in 2017 and was a collaboration with wife Faith Hill titled The Rest of Our Life. Since then, McGraw has been releasing teasers about new music and the full project is finally here.

The title track “LA” opens with a resemblance to an 80s-synth track, sustaining that ambiance throughout the length of the track. The lyrics discuss the cliches of LA while mentally making you feel like you are in the city of angels.

“Chevy Spaceship” starts with a grainy space-launch message with extraterrestrial loops. It compliments a backing piano instrumentation and builds up as the song progresses. The title track “Here On Earth” contains a more uptempo offering than the previous two tracks and couples with “Hard To Stay Mad At” in terms of upbeat, feel-good songs.

“Sheryl Crow” glimpses at McGraw’s rock side and is a love song about the same nostalgic feelings felt about someone and feeling those same feelings hearing Sheryl Crow on the radio for the first time; almost the same perspective as Taylor Swift’s “Tim McGraw.” “7500 OBO” is an offering from today’s traditional country sound and in correlation with the album’s release, the singer released an acoustic version of the song on YouTube as well as a video for Hallelujahville.

Lead single “I Called Mama” serves as a reminder that comforting voices out there are available and one of the best things out there. He sings: “So I stopped off at a Texaco // Bought a Slim Jim and a Coke // Parked out by the water just to watch that river flow // Grabbed my guitar from the back seat // Wrote a song just for me // And I sung it for the blue sky // And a couple live oak trees // I thought of home, grabbed my phone from my pocket // And I called mama.”

Each track highlights the shared experiences that humans feel, something that is so needed during these uncertain times.

Follow Tim McGraw on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

HERE ON EARTH Track List

1. “L.A.” | Carlton Anderson, Shane Minor, Phil O’Donnell
2. “Chevy Spaceship” | Jonny Price
3. “Here On Earth” | Jessie Joe Dillon, Chase McGill, Jon Nite
4. “Damn Sure Do” | Tony Lane, James T. Slater
5. “Hallelujahville” | Tom Douglas, Blake Griffith, Brett Taylor
6. “Good Taste In Women” | Jaren Johnston, Bryan Simpson, Nathan Spicer
7. “Hard To Stay Mad At” | Luke Laird, Shane McAnally, Lori McKenna
8. “Sheryl Crow” | Wendell Mobley, Neil Thrasher, Laura Veltz
9. “Not From California” | Levi Hummon, Marcus Hummon, Matt McVaney, Brad Warren, Brett Warren
10. “Hold You Tonight” | Ross Copperman, Jon Nite
11. “7500 OBO” | Matt McGinn, Jennifer Schott, Nathan Spicer
12. “If I Was A Cowboy” | Zack Dyer, Lonnie Lee Fowler, Dave Turnbill
13. “I Called Mama” | Marv Green, Lance Miller, Jimmy Yeary
14. “Gravy” | Andy Albert, Tom Douglas, Allen Shamblin
15. “War Of Art” | Lance Miller, Jeremy Spillman, Brad Warren, Brett Warren
16. “Doggone” | Claire Douglas, Tom Douglas, Jaren Johnston, Aimee Mayo

 

 

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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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Caylee Hammack ‘If It Wasn’t For You’

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Caylee Hammack

Today marks the debut of a star in the making! Critics and fans alike may notice Caylee Hammack’s fiery red hair right away, but it’s her voice, her attitude, her talent, and her undeniable charm that declares her staying power. Her brand new debut record If It Wasn’t For You is her story, and boy is it a good one.

Unexpectedly, Hammack begins her record with a song called “Just Friends.” In the beginning, the song appears to be a vocal-based performance with a simple backing, but then the song opens up and explodes into a powerhouse introduction. Just from the first song, fans know that they are in for something special with this project.

Hammack keeps the energy up with previously released tunes “Redhead” and “Preciatcha.” “Redhead” is the song we all needed. Featuring megastar, Reba McEntire, the two ladies jam about all the characteristics that badass redhead chicks possess “Oh, they got their hands full, trying to tame a pistol / Spitfire, freckles that could run among the dead.” Of course, “Preciatcha” has a quieter energy, but still hits just as hard metaphorically. The song is about Hammack heeding her mother’s advice, and holding on to the valuable lessons learned from pain and heartache.

Songs like “Just Like You” and “King Size Bed” showcase the sassy side of the singer-songwriter’s personality. “Just Like You” focuses on getting revenge on an ex-lover, similar to the vibe of Carrie Underwood’s smash hit “Before He Cheats.” On the other hand, “King Size Bed” is a sensual and cheeky jam about a romantic interest.

Family is clearly a central theme on the new record too. In “Family Tree,” Hammack’s debut song, the singer lets her fans in on the good, the bad, and the weird in her family. This type of humble honesty is refreshing in such a young talent. Similarly, in “Sister,” Hammack pays homage to her sibling, expressing the privilege of having a sister to look up to, cry with, and celebrate the good times with.

Hammack continues to hit her sweet spot on personal, yet relatable songs, where she divulges her truth. “Looking For A Lighter,” one of our favorites is a clever tale about heartbreak. The singer’s vocals shine on this track, but it is her creative way of personifying and comparing fire, smoke, and lighters with the painful demise of a push-pull relationship. Lyrics like “Spark up a memory / I’m burning for you so bad” are laced throughout the entire song.

“Forged In A Fire” is another personal anecdote that was put to music. Hammack finds inspiration in life’s journey throughout this song. She eventually draws the conclusion that she was meant to be a fighter. The song conveys a quiet sense of strength, which is refreshing. Hammack continues her story-telling with “Small Town Hypocrite,” a sonically pleasing song inspired by the singer’s move to Nashville and subsequent break-up. Although heartbreaking, the song is one of her best.

Similarly, the spectacular song, “Mean Something,” which features incredible fellow artists Ashley McBryde and Tenille Townes, paints the picture of women trying their best to find their footing in life through all the adversity. The song is an anthem in the making, and completely relevant to the battle females in the industry are enduring in country music right now.

“Ain’t we all just trying to mean something, mean something / AIn’t we all just trying to be something, be something”

Ending with the song “New Level of Life,” Hammack seems to have made it full circle. She acknowledges her trials and tribulations in love and life but manages to come out the other side stronger, brighter, and happier. The uplifting and creative tune is the perfect way to end such a strong debut.

Hammack’s first full project was the perfect introduction to her talent. She truly created something that is unique to her and aesthetically pleasing in every area. This particular collection of songs is going to resonate with fans across the genre and beyond. Hammack is on fire, and we cannot wait to hear these songs live!

To keep up with Caylee Hammack follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Mean Something”
  2. “New Level of Life”
  3. “Small Town Hypocrite”
  4. “Looking For A Lighter”

 

If It Wasn’t For You Tracklist:

  1. Just Friends
  2. Redhead (featuring Reba McEntire)
  3. Looking For A Lighter
  4. Preciatcha
  5. Sister
  6. Just Like You
  7. King Size Bed
  8. Forged In The Fire
  9. Family Tree
  10. Mean Something (featuring Ashley McBryde and Tenille Townes)
  11. Small Town Hypocrite
  12. Gold
  13. New Level Of Life

 If It Wasn’t For You 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 & Exclusive Interview: Mo Pitney ‘Ain’t Lookin’ Back’

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Mo Pitney

Sophomore records are often the ones that make or break an artist, but for rising talent, Mo Pitney, his newest project, Ain’t Lookin’ Back is even more intriguing than his debut. The singer-songwriter knows his sound and his fanbase and delivers exactly what we want, a true-blue country album laced with a wide range of influences.

“So I took a long time to make the second album for a number of reasons,” Pitney began during our exclusive interview with the artist, “I wanted to find out how to have a common thread from the first album to the second album, but being open to introducing all of my influences and let them meet in one place.” It is safe to say that he accomplished that feat with this record.

Opening up with “A Music Man,” Pitney wastes no time showcasing his one of a kind talent. The single is a beautiful story about feeling like God put him on Earth to play music. The beautiful “three chords and the truth” song is everything fans could want to kick off the project.

Pitney continued to transition his vocal skills into a series of love songs, such as “Right Now With You,” “Boy Gets the Girl”, and “Mattress on the Floor.” Although all three are sublime in their own right, “Mattress on the Floor” is a standout track, where Pitney vocalizes that love is all you really need to get by.

According to Pitney, most of the songs were inspired by the love he has for his wife. “Local Honey” is a sweet and sultry song about falling in love that everyone can relate to. “Plain and Simple” is another stellar example of how well Pitney can express a simple story through the song. The love song is the perfect simplest declaration of endearment. “Always have and always will love you / Plain and simple”

On the other hand, “Looks Like Rain” is arguably one of the best songs on the project. Written about mental health struggles, Pitney takes vulnerability to a whole new level on this gut-wrenching, but much needed track. In our exclusive interview, he deemed this song one of his favorites and even opened up about the inspiration, sharing; “I wanted to record it because it is a song about depression. It is a song about having the sun shining, and the birds are singing, but the whole world is grey. And I think that’s a common human experience, and I wanted to share that I’ve been through that and other people aren’t alone with that.”

Of course, family remained a tenant on this record. As a recent father of two girls and a touring musician, Pitney knows how it feels to be away from his family.  In “’ Til I Get Back To You,” the singer expresses that sentiment through the lens of a truck driving industry. In our conversation, the singer-songwriter explained how effortless the songwriting process was for this song. “We talked about the history of country music and truck driving songs and we wanted to try to bring that to this record in a new way so I welded my story of traveling and wanting to get back to my wife with these truck driving industry.” “Old Stuff Better,” a fun country-folk jam about family roots and “Ain’t Bad for Good Ol’ Boy” also lend themselves to the family first mentality.

Overall the brand new project is a little bit of the old mixed with a whole lot of the new. Like most of us, Pitney is just on the journey called life, and constantly peeling back the layers that make him who he is. I’m sure true fans of music will continue to support his unmatched and refreshing talent.

To keep up with Mo Pitney follow him on Instagram and Facebook.

 

NYCS Picks:

  1. “A Music Man”
  2. “Looks Like Rain”
  3. “’Til I Get Back to You”
  4. “Boy Gets the Girl”

 

Ain’t Lookin’ Back Tracklist:

  1. A Music Man (feat. Jamey Johnson)
  2. Right Now with You
  3. Ain’t Bad for a Good Ol’ Boy
  4. ’til I Get Back to You
  5. Looks Like Rain
  6. Boy Gets the Girl
  7. Ain’t Lookin’ Back
  8. Old Home Place (feat. His All-Star Band)
  9. Plain and Simple
  10. Mattress on the Floor
  11. Local Honey
  12. Old Stuff Better
  13. Jonas

Ain’t’ Lookin’ Back 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: Lindsay Ell ‘Heart Theory’

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lindsay ell heart theory

Country music is a genre built on storytelling and real life. Over the past few years, that definition has been watered down by some. It’s not that modern country isn’t fun or meaningful; it’s just that often artists are afraid to “go there” like they used to — they’re afraid to step on people’s toes. Lindsay Ell bared it all on her phenomenal sophomore project heart theory. Sonically, she made a stellar current country-pop record with influences of rock and blues, but conceptually, it’s as country as could be.

heart theory successfully covers the seven stages of grief: shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, testing, and acceptance. Ell explores everything from a breakup that ended badly to working through trauma to finding yourself on the 12-track project. “If theory is the science of music, heart theory is the science of a heart,” Ell said of the record. “I hope this roadmap can be a comfort if you need it, reassurance when you need to remember to believe in yourself or maybe just a glimpse into a memory that’s made you who you are.”

“how good” falls under the denial category and is a groovy, almost funk-pop inspired Brandy Clark co-write. Her vocal range is on full display, from a controlled, mellow verse to a soaring chorus. “You don’t know how good I could love you/Boy if you just would let me love you/You might not think you should/but if I were you I would”, she sings on the chorus.

Ell shows off her bolder side on the three-song anger stage. “wAnt me back”, the current single is an addictively catchy tune. She tells her ex that she knows she’s worth it in a relationship, and if she were in his shoes, she’d miss her too. “You ain’t gonna find nobody like me/I’m the best you ever had and I’m always gonna be, so/If I were you… if I were you/I’d want me back too.”

Sitting in the middle of the album is the fourth stage: bargaining. Written by Ell, Sam Ellis, and Laura Veltz is “body language of a breakup”, a clever representation of watching a relationship fall apart from the outside. Although there are plenty of songs about breakups, this hits the nail right on the head in a completely fresh way. The craftsmanship of heart theory is incredibly unique. None of the 12 tracks sound exactly like something heard on the radio, yet at the same time, they all feel familiar. The lyrics are smartly written, and with Ell’s guitar solos that catch you off guard in the best way, it makes it even more interesting. She’s clearly grown as a writer and artist since her debut, The Project.

The most vulnerable and heartbreaking moment is the second-to-last song, “make you”, which is filed under acceptance. Written by Ell and Clark, is Ell’s story of being a sexual assault survivor. At 13, and again at 21, she was raped. When she decided to make an album as personal as heart theory, she knew she had to tell her story. “I called Brandy, an absolute wordsmith and songwriter genius, and asked her if she would write this song with me. She fearlessly and immediately said yes,” Ell said in a press release. “The day we wrote ‘make you’ I knew we had written something special that will hopefully help others to not feel alone in their survival. And more personally, it was finally the moment in my life where I got to validate that little girl inside – letting her know that ‘I see her and I love her.”

The album ends on a hopeful note. “ReadY to love” is an empowering, upbeat jam about owning who you are and taking back the power after being hurt so many times before. “I’m ready to love again/Ready to trust again/Ready to put my heart back out there/If your heart is out there”, she sings on the chorus. It’s at this moment that you can hear how truly free Ell feels.

Lindsay Ell has been making music for more than half of her life, and with each release, she digs deeper. Not letting a genre or sound define her, she poured her heart out and it paid off big time. Part of what makes this an outstanding and authentic record is that it is the very definition of three chords and the truth. She shared the ups and downs of life, letting every scar show and heal. As she sings on her cover of John Mayer’s “The Heart of Life”, “Pain throws your heart to the ground/Love turned the whole thing around/No, it won’t all go the way it should/But I know the heart of life is good.”

 

heart theory Track List

a journey through the seven stages of grief

shock
1. “Hits me” (Lindsay Ell, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder)

denial
2. “how good” (Lindsay Ell, Brandy Clark)
3. “i don’t lovE you” (Adam Hambrick, Melissa Fuller, Neil Medley)

anger
4. “wAnt me back” (Lindsay Ell, Kane Brown, Matt McGinn, Lindsay Rimes)
5. “get oveR you” (Lindsay Ell, Gordie Sampson, Kelly Archer)
6. “wrong girl” (Lindsay Ell, Steph Jones, Matt McGinn, Luke Niccoli)

bargaining
7. “body language of a breakup” (Lindsay Ell, Laura Veltz, Sam Ellis)

depression
8. “good on you” (Lindsay Ell, Sam Ellis, Micah Premnath)

testing
9. “The oTHEr side” (Lindsay Ell, Jessie Jo Dillon, Matt McGinn)
10. “gO to” (Lindsay Ell, Nicolle Gaylon, Jordan Reynolds)

acceptance
11. “make you” (Lindsay Ell, Brandy Clark)
12. “ReadY to love” (Lindsay Ell, Jessie Jo Dillon, Matt McGinn, Joey Hyde)

NYCS Staff Picks:
“make you”
“i don’t lovE you”
“how good”
“ReadY to love”
“wAnt me back”

To keep up with Lindsay Ell, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

‘heart theory’ 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: RaeLynn ‘Baytown’ EP

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Baytown RaeLynn

Move over country boys, let me re-introduce you to a country girl! Rising artist, RaeLynn shines as bright as can be on her brand new EP entitled Baytown, inspired by her Texas hometown. Her country twang is at the forefront of each of the six tracks, but it is her sass, her confidence, her wordplay, and her stunning voice that steals the show. Check out our Up Close & Virtual interview below.

“Keep Up” sets the tone right away for what we can expect from the rest of the record. The hard-hitting, countrified tune is all about RaeLynn playing just as hard as the boys. RaeLynn sings about being “redneck,” being able to build and fix stuff with her hands, and of course, doing all the things the boys can do, but better. This age-old adage is perfectly personified in this sassy and confident jam.

The record progresses into a more mellow vibe with “Still Smokin” and “Fake Girl Town.” The former is a tune about a summer romance that turned into forever. Cleverly weaving literal examples of fire and smoke with the figurative heat and spark of a budding romance, RaeLynn paints the picture of how a relationship turned into a forever kind of thing. The sincere love song is fresh and exciting. “Yeah lemme tell you about a summer fling that turned to a fling that’s gonna last forever.”

The latter of course, “Fake Girl Town” continues to slow things down. The touching ballad sheds a much needed light on the detrimental culture that exists between girls. Unfortunately, society has encouraged women to be vicious and compete with each other rather than support and cheer each other on. The songstress is singing her heart out about wishing more girls could be there for one another but is confident that she will find the real ones among a sea of fakers. “I know they’re out here, somewhere / A two lane girl like me / I know they’re out here, somewhere / Chasing down their dream.”

Keeping the vulnerability going, the previously released, “Me About Me” is a full-fledged confession about the details of a break-up and a one-sided relationship. The heartbreakingly stunning mid-tempo song conveys a type of honesty that we only get from country music. “You would know if you asked me about me / Me about me.”

For fans who prefer the more in your face, fiery side of Raelynn, both “Judgin To Jesus” and the single, “Bra Off” fit the bill. The first is a boot-stomping jam and party song that will fit perfectly into a live show performance. “Bra Off” is a humorous and fierce expression of shedding your skin after a break-up. RaeLynn compares losing a guy to taking her bra off, admitting that she finally feels less suffocated. The female- anthem is just as hilarious, as it is brilliant.

It is safe to say that RaeLynn made her hometown proud with this record. The ‘Baytown’ native has sure evolved into a powerhouse singer-songwriter, and we love her newest project.

Keep up with RaeLynn on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Baytown 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 a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

NYCS Picks:
1. “Still Smokin”
2. “Fake Girl Town”

Baytown– EP Tracklist:
1. Keep Up
2. Still Smokin’
3. Fake Girl Town
4. Judgin’ To Jesus
5. Me About Me
6. Bra Off

 

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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.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
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NYCS First Impression Luke Bryan ‘Born Here Live Here Die Here’

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Luke Bryan

Country superstar Luke Bryan’s seventh studio album, Born Here Live Here Die Here is finally here! Originally scheduled to be released on April 24th, hardships caused by COVID-19 led Bryan and his team to delay it an additional three and a half months. His sixth studio album, What Makes You Country was released back in December of 2017, so it’s safe to say fans have been anxious for this one. It contains ten tracks, five of which were previously released and three of them (“Knockin’ Boots,” “What She Wants Tonight,” and “One Margarita”) have already reached the number one spot on the Billboard Country Airplay charts.


The lead single, “Knockin’ Boots,” was released in March of 2019. Written by Jon Nite, Hillary Lindsey, and Gordie Sampson, the song’s hook is built around the Old Western euphemism for sex. In “What She Wants Tonight,” Bryan sings about the type of girl at the club who doesn’t have to wait in line or pay for drinks. She’s the one everybody wants and he’s the one lucky enough to take her home that night. This song was released in October and is one of Bryan’s three co-writes on the album. His latest single “One Margarita,” was released on March 13th, amidst the height of the coronavirus pandemic. Written by Michael Carter, Matt Dragstrem, and Josh Thompson, this track lifted our spirits during a dark time, being all about alcohol, the beach, and good vibes. It hit number one on July 11th.


Two other previously tracks include the title track and “Build Me a Daddy.” “Born Here Live Here Die Here” is a patriotic song, dedicated to the small-town people who never left their hometown. Although this was not written by Bryan, it resonates with him very deeply as staying true to your roots has always been a major theme in his songs. “Build Me a Daddy” is the lone ballad on the record, sung from the perspective of a young boy who lost his father. In the song, he asks the man behind the counter of a toy shop if he could build him a new dad – a tall, strong one with a big heart. Bryan performed his song on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon on June 18th. Watch it here:



It appears Bryan has not yet sobered up from the woman in his 2012 hit-song, “Drunk On You” as in 2020, he remains “Too Drunk To Drive.” In this second Bryan co-write, it is not the alcohol that impairs him but the way his woman looks tonight, making him incapable to drive home, leaving them wondering what they could do to pass the time.

“Maybe wreck some sheets, crash your lips into mine and not even make the news / These four walls are safer than them two lanes / You pour ’em tall when you start whispering my name / Ain’t no blue light, line walkin’ happening tonight”

“Little Less Broken” features a man at the bar sipping Johnnie Walker Black in an effort to get over an ex-girlfriend. Much to his displeasure, she walks into the same bar, showing no signs of hurt from the breakup. In this catchy chorus, he expressed how he didn’t expect her to move on so fast, realizing that hearts don’t break 50/50 and her heart is a little less broken than his.

“Looks like I’m movin’ just a little less on with this / Looks like your world has got a little less wrong with it / Looks like it took you just a little less time / Looks like your heart’s just a little less broken than mine”

“For a Boat” is a sweet song about loving what you have and not what you don’t. The man in the song recalls learning all of life’s most important lessons fishing on a bank, instead of on a boat. Growing up “too broke for a boat” taught him the value of money, patience, family, and much more.

“And just about then that bobber would sink / And that outboard dream of mine would disappear / I grew up pretty lucky as far as lucky goes / Too broke for a boat”

Written by Bryan and Brent Cobb, “Where Are We Goin’” starts out with a somewhat bluegrass sound and transitions into a structurally unique track with no real verses or chorus. After the bar closes, the two young lovers contemplate what to do with the rest of the night. Backed by a mystery songstress, Bryan sings about letting love guide the uncertainty of what’s to come in a relationship.

“Where are we going? If this is love / There’s no way to know but just between the two of us /
It all feels so right with you in my arms / Where it’s going, I don’t know, but let’s keep following our hearts”

The final track, “Down to One,” has a heavy pop-production. Written by Dallas Davidson, Justin Ebach, and Kyle Fishman, the protagonist in the song reflects on the night he truly fell in love and decided this was the one girl he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

“My heart was tellin’ me that one more kiss and I’d be done / Down to one hand in mine / Down to one beautiful smile / I was done with the girl I want / Straight fallin’ in love, right there that night / Down to one”

Although this record was much shorter than his previous ones, it was certainly worth the wait! Born Here Live Here Die Here touches upon all the major themes in country music, from heartbreak, love, growing up, and having a good time. This album is a testament to who Luke Bryan is as a singer-songwriter and is a great representation of why he continues to dominate the charts and remain as one of country music’s top artists and performers.

Born Here Live Here Die Here Tracklist:
1. “Knockin’ Boots” (Hillary Lindsey, Jon Nite, Gordie Sampson)
2. “What She Wants Tonight” (Luke Bryan, Ross Copperman, Hillary Lindsey, Jon Nite)
3. “Born Here Live Here Die Here” (Jake Mitchell Jameson Rodgers, Josh Thompson)
4. “One Margarita” (Michael Carter, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson)
5. “Too Drunk to Drive” (Luke Bryan, Michael Carter, Brandon Kinney)
6. “Build Me a Daddy” (Jake Mitchell, Josh, Thompson Brett Tyler)
7. “Little Less Broken” (Michael Carter, Lindsay Rimes, Matt Rogers)
8. “For a Boat” (Randy Montana, Josh Thompson, Mike Walker)
9. “Where Are We Goin'” (Luke Bryan, Brent Cobb)
10. “Down to One” (Dallas Davidson, Justin Ebach, Kyle Fishman)

NYCS Picks:
1. For a Boat
2. Too Drunk to Drive
3. Little Less Broken

Keep up with Bryan by following him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Born Here Live Here Die Here is 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: Cassadee Pope ‘Rise and Shine’

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Rise and Shine Cassadee Pope

As fast as it started, summer is slowly winding down. Soon enough, the days will get shorter and the weather colder. Today, August 6th, Cassadee Pope released her third studio album, the acoustic Rise and Shine and it’s the perfect soundtrack to transition you into fall. It’s warm, nostalgic, and exciting. There’s a song for every season and feeling.

The first track, “Let Me Go”, and the final, “Built This House”, were the first of the eight to be released. “Let Me Go,” tells the story of a relationship that has run it’s course, while “Built This House” is more of a reflection of once you’re on the other side of the breakup. “Counting on the Weather”, written by the artist along with Bobby Huff, and Blair Daly is the most classic Pope, rhythmically and lyrically. It’s incredibly distinct, and it sounds like it was made for a late Indian Summer night.

A project like this is a reminder of why Pope won NBC’s The Voice all those years ago. Not only is she a true artist with a vision, but she has one of the most spectacular and versatile voices in all of country music. This is showcased on the entire album, but especially on moments like “Hangover” and “Hoodie”. Both are early-2000s sounding and reminiscent of her alternative roots.

“Rise and Shine is a collection of songs that talk about where I’ve been and where I’m headed,” says Pope in a statement. “I wanted people to hear these in their purest form so I went with a more stripped back sound that really lets the lyrics stand out. My hope is that these songs help aid people into feeling every emotion they need to let out.”

The standout on the record is “California Dreaming”, which she sings with boyfriend and fellow singer-songwriter/actor Sam Palladio. It starts with a gorgeous, pensive guitar and builds as soon as Pope’s voice comes in. When Palladio joins her at the chorus, they soar together, and it is bound to give you goosebumps. It’s nostalgic and really thoughtful. “I’ve been flying and crying, trying to leave you where I’ve been/But the cracks in my heart always let you back in/Keep trying to lose you in the Hollywood Hills/but I’m California dreaming still”, they sing on the chorus. The guitar is melodic but doesn’t overpower their vocals. It sounds like it could be straight off the show Nashville, while still sounding retro.

The title track, “Rise and Shine” is soothing in every way; it’s perfect for the times we’re living in now. Written by Pope, Danny Orton, Matt Scannell is the beautifully serene song about getting up every morning and choosing to fight for yourself and your worth. It sounds like waking up early in the morning and seeing the sunshine through the blinds.

Modern country music has become more produced over the years, so it’s refreshing to see an artist as successful as Cassadee Pope step back and let the lyrics and her voice do the talking. Right now what we need most is music and art to transport us, and this album does that successfully. As Cassadee sings, “you know it’s always darkest before the dawn, so rise and shine”.

Rise and Shine Track Listing:
Let Me Go (Cassadee Pope, Tina Parol, Kevin Rudolph)
Hoodie (Cassadee Pope, Johan Fransson, Emily Weisband)
California Dreaming (Cassadee Pope, Alex Kline, Shane Stevens)
Counting On The Weather (Cassadee Pope, Bobby Huff, Blair Daly)
Hangover (Cassadee Pope, Butch Walker)
Rise and Shine (Cassadee Pope, Danny Orton, Matt Scannell)
Sand Paper (Cassadee Pope, Alex Kline, Shane Stevens)
Built This House (Cassadee Pope, Forest Glen Whitehead, Kelly Archer)

NYCS Picks:
California Dreaming
Counting On The Weather
Rise and Shine

To keep up with Cassadee Pope, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

‘Rise and Shine’ 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: ‘Chris Tomlin & Friends’ Collaboration Album

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Chris Tomlin & Friends

Faith, religion, and God have always had a place in country music. Now, Grammy-award-winning Christian music singer-songwriter, Chris Tomlin has taken this theme to the next level with his Christian/country collaboration album titled Chris Tomlin and Friends that dropped last Friday (July 31). Some of the biggest names in country music are featured on this record, including Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Lady A, Brett Young, Chris Lane, Cassadee Pope, RaeLynn, and Russell Dickerson, as well as some of the biggest songwriters, including Ashley Gorley, Corey Crowder, Dan + Shay’s Shay Mooney and much more.

Tomlin’s thirteenth studio album was executively produced by Florida Georgia Line and Crowder. This project came about when Tomlin and Tyler Hubbard met in a Florida gym on vacation. Both confessed that they were huge fans of each other and decided there to write some songs together in the future. On the record, Tomlin co-wrote nine of the thirteen songs while Hubbard and Crowder have co-wrote six songs each.

“This is a very meaningful project for us,” Hubbard shared in a press release. “BK and I both grew up leading worship in church, singing several of Chris’ songs throughout the years. He’s been a huge inspiration to us, and to have this full circle opportunity to collaborate with him on this album is a true blessing.”

Aside from writing, Hubbard and Brian Kelley feature their vocals on three songs, including “Forever Home,” “Sing,” with Russell Dickerson, and the lead track “Thank You, Lord” featuring Thomas Rhett. “Forever Home” is the most country sounding track on the record. The ‘forever home’ they sing about is a metaphor for heaven. “When we get to our forever home / Me and you will be forever home.” In “Thank You, Lord,” Tomlin, Rhett and Florida Georgia Line express all they have to be thankful for in upbeat fashion, including their mothers, friends, wives, kids, and more. Rhett is also featured “God Who Listens,” which touches on the power of prayer. Tomlin and Rhett collaborated on Rhett’s COVID-inspired hit song, “Be A Light” that was released in March.

Grammy-award-winning country group, Lady A will get their first taste of Christian radio with “Who You Are To Me,” as this will be Tomlin’s next single to the charts. Some people think the Lord is just the protagonist of some fables, but in this song, Tomlin, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, and David Haywood explain that God can be a part of everything you do. “Your mercy, Your goodness / Lord, You’re the air that I breathe / That’s who You are to me.” The track currently sits at number 24 and was the most added song to Christian radio the week of August 1st. “Gifts From God,” featuring Chris Lane has a similar message – Every day is a gift from God and if you look around, you’ll see He is always around you, not just the hour you spend with Him in church on Sunday.

“Chase Me Down,” featuring RaeLynn, and “Together,” featuring Dickerson reminds us that even in the worst of times, God is always there for us, even when we’re “knee deep in sin.” In “Be The Moon,” Brett Young and Cassadee Pope harmonize with Tomlin to create a beautiful ballad about how we, like the moon does with the sun, can use Christianity to reflect the light of God onto others.

Other non-country collaborations include “Reaching for You,” with We The Kingdom, “Power,” with NEEDTOBREATHE’s Bear Rineheart, and the album’s closer, “Tin Roof,” featuring Blessing Offor.

“Everyone brought their own unique experiences and talents to the table and it’s what made the songs and their message so relatable and powerful,” Tomlin shared. “For me, this record is a step towards breaking down the walls of the Christian genre and allowing the music to be accessible to a wider audience. That’s my understanding of the Gospel. Music about faith, God, salvation and forgiveness doesn’t only have to come from the Christian genre.”

23 Dove Awards and nine number one songs on the Christian Airplay charts wasn’t satisfying enough for the Nashville-based, Texas native. Growing up as a kid, Tomlin wanted to do one of two things: play professional baseball or sing country music. While it would tough for the 48-year old to make an MLB roster, it wasn’t too late to record a country record. The awards and the number-one hits show Tomlin clearly has a lot of talent as a musician, but this album truly put his exceptionality and versatility on full display.

 

Chris Tomlin & Friends Track List:

  1. “Thank You, Lord” (Intro)
  2. “Thank You Lord” feat. Florida Georgia Line & Thomas Rhett (Chris Tomlin, Thomas Rhett, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder, David Garcia)
  3. “Reaching For You” feat. We The Kingdom (Chris Tomlin, Shay Mooney, Ed Cash)
  4. “Who You Are To Me” feat. Lady A (Chris Tomlin, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood)
  5. “God Who Listens” feat. Thomas Rhett (Chris Tomlin, Thomas Rhett, Ashley Gorley, David Garcia)
  6. “Power” feat. Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE (Chris Tomlin, Pat Barrett, Ed Cash)
  7. “Be The Moon” feat. Brett Young & Cassadee Pope (Chris Tomlin, Corey Crowder, Tyler Hubbard)
  8. “Sing” feat. Russell Dickerson & Florida Georgia Line (Chris Tomlin, Corey Crowder, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Cary Barlowe)
  9. “Chase Me Down” feat. RaeLynn (Racheal Lynn David, Josh Kerr, Hannah Ellis)
  10. “Gifts From God” feat. Chris Lane (Chris Tomlin, Corey Crowder, Tyler Hubbard)
  11. “Forever Home” feat. Florida Georgia Line ((Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Ashley Gorley, Corey Crowder)
  12. “Together” feat. Russell Dickerson (Chris Tomlin, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Russell Dickerson, Corey Crowder)
  13. “Tin Roof” feat. Blessing Offor (Blessing Offor, Natalie Hemby)

 

NYCS Picks

  1. Thank You Lord
  2. Who You Are To Me
  3. Be The Moon
  4. Forever Home

 

Keep up with Tomlin by following him on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Chris Tomlin & Friends is available everywhere you buy or stream music.  Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music 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: