NYCS First Impression: Rodney Atkins ‘Caught Up In The Country’

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Rodney Atkins Caught up in the Country

It has been 8 years since Rodney Atkins released his last album Take a Back Road. It includes hits like “Farmer’s Daughter,” “Take a Back Road,” and “He’s Mine.” Atkins has produced countless chart-topping hits and sold over 10 million albums throughout his career and that had fans wondering why he took such a long break from music. Over Instagram throughout the last year, in anticipation of a new album, he has said that the time away from releasing music has been used to raise a family and in the previous few, to hone his craft to make more chart-topping hits. Caught Up In The Country is finally available and is Atkins newest album.

“Caught Up In The Country” was Atkins first release off the album back in the fall. The song celebrates all the good things that come with living in the country: beautiful sunsets, endless dirt roads, and countless stars in the sky. The boot-stomping single, featuring the Fisk Jubilee Singers, has already garnered over 86.6M on-demand streams and shows no signs of slowing down. “Caught Up In The Country” sets the mood for the whole album with meaningful lyrics and a rhythm that brings you back to your country roots. In our interview with Atkins last summer at Taste of Country Festival, he told us a little bit about the new music on the album stating: “It’s an organic record, but it is kind of me pushing the envelope.” Check out the full interview below.

Everyone knows Atkins song “Watching You,” about a young son who wants to be just like his dad in every way, and to accomplish this, he watches his dad’s every move. One of Atkins newest songs off the new album is “Young Man,” the continuation of the young boy’s life from “Watching You.” He stated on Instagram, “For those, my son was four years old, he’s 17 now, and this is telling him to be where he is, not try to grow up too fast. Be present, at whatever age you are.”

“All My Friends Are Drunk” is the anti-party song for all those who go to parties and don’t drink. The somber song tells a story of a group of friends who try taking their buddy out after a break up who ends up by himself when his friends go off and party. “Thank God For You” is another track off the album that shows his appreciation for the woman in his life. This upbeat song is a great one to sing along to with those around you who you appreciate every day. On a more personal note, we already see Atkins wife, Rose Falcon, appear in “Thank God For You” music video but her vocals also appear on the album in songs “Figure You Out” and “Everybody’s Got Something.” The “Figure Out You (Riddle) [Feat. Rose Falcon],” lyric video was just released and features personal photos of the singer, his two sons and Rose herself.

Other songs on the album include, “My Life,” the powerful story of his wife Rose Falcon’s beloved grandmother, “Burn Something,” a relationship that simply does not work together yet they keep running back, and “Cover Me Up,” a love song about simply being enough as you are.

In a recent press release, Atkins says. “I wanted to really tell a story in the shape and the melody of these songs—there’s more diversity on this record than I’ve ever had before—and to really take time to figure out the nuances because, ultimately, it’s a whole bunch of nuances that add up to make something special.” This album has a song for everyone and we are loving everything that it offers fans both lyrically and it’s rhythm.

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

Caught Up In The Country 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.

Rodney Atkins 2019 Tour Dates:
5/10 – Gulf Breeze, FL, Flounders on Pensacola Beach
5/17 – Johnson Creek, WI, The Gobbler Theater
5/18 – Camp Douglas, WI, Camp Douglas
5/25 – Sarepta, LA, Muddy Bottoms ATV & Recreation
6/1 – LaFayette, GA, City of LaFayette
6/7 – Wapakoneta, OH, Auglaize County Fairground
6/8 – Goodhue, MN, Goodhue Volksfest
6/15 – Cardwell, MT, Headwaters Country Jam
6/16 – Mack, CO, Country Jam
6/17 – Richmond, UT, Cherry Peak Resort
6/21 – West Peoria, IL, Crusens
6/22 – East Bethel, MN, Route 65
6/28 – Rocklin, CA, Platinum Living Amphitheater at Quarry Park
6/29 – Morgan Hill, CA, Boots & Brews Country Music Festival
7/3 – La Porte, IN, Stone Lake Beach
7/4 – Hilliard, OH, Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park
7/6 – Mitchell, SD, Corn Palace
7/17 – Kirksville, MO, Northeast Missouri Fair
7/19 – Hillsboro, MO, Jefferson County Fair
7/20 – West Liberty, IA, Muscatine County Fair
7/21 – Oshkosh, WI, Menominee Nation Arena
7/25 – Tooele, UT, Country Fan Fest
7/26 – Littleton, CO, Platte River Bar & Grill
7/27 – Kearney, NE, Buffalo County Fair
7/31 – Wausau, WI, Wisconsin Valley Fair
8/2 – Dodge City, KS, Central Station
8/3 – Springfield, NE, Sarpy County Fair
8/8 – Houston, TX, The Rustic – Houston
8/9 – Dallas, TX, The Rustic
8/10 – Lake Ozark, MO, Lazy Gators
8/30 – West, TX, Westfest
8/30 – Loveland, CO, Thunder Mountain Amphitheater
9/6 – Fredericksburg, VA, Celebrate Virginia After Hours
9/7 – Morganton, NC, Historic Morganton Festival
9/12 – Cincinnati, OH, Live at the Ludlow Garage
9/13 – Walhalla, SC, Walhalla Civic Auditorium
9/14 – Greensboro, NC, Greensboro Coliseum Complex
10/2 – Fryeburg, ME, Fryeburg Fair
10/3 – Bar Harbor, ME, Criterion Theatre
10/4 – Laconia, NH, Granite State Music Hall
10/5 – Rutland, VT, The Paramount Theatre

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NYCS First Impression: Maddie & Tae ‘One Heart To Another’

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Maddie & Tae

After some hardships, including switching labels, platinum-selling vocal duo Maddie & Tae (Maddie Marlow and Taylor Dye) are back on the country music scene armed with passion and perseverance. The singer-songwriters channel their experiences with heartbreak, loss, love, and redemption into a major comeback with the release of their new EP, One Heart to Another, the prelude to their upcoming sophomore album.

Both women have been vocal about the work they’ve put into this new record. In a recent press release, Marlow shared “This is much more than just a new project for us. It has been our light at the end of the tunnel for the past two years. It is about two best friends experiencing the highest of highs, the lowest of lows, and everything in between. We hope our fans hear the vulnerability, heartbreak, strength, truth, and passion we’ve poured into this. This is only the beginning.”

“We put our heads down and tried to be the best artists we could be. And to us that looked like writing lyrics from a very honest place and sharing them with the hopes that someone out in the world feels less alone. So here is One Heart to Another. From our hearts to yours,” added Dye.

From the moment the EP begins, the listener feels transported into the world of Maddie & Tae. Deeply personal, relatable, and special, each of the five tracks share a different side of the duo’s talents, as both singers and songwriters.

The record opens up with the flirty song, “Friends Don’t,” which the songstresses released last summer. The track, written by the women with Jon Nite and Justin Ebach, tells the story of a clever back and forth between a boy and a girl, who are ‘just friends,’ but clearly, there’s something more there. The women give words to the experience of managing mixed signals and emotions that are so prevalent in the beginning stages of a potential love interest.

Next, the EP transitions to track two, “Die From A Broken Heart,” a painfully beautiful and vulnerable ballad about heartbreak. In the song, the duo sings, “How does he sleep at night / Momma, the nerve of this guy / To leave me so easy / Am I gonna be alright / I wanna kick myself for falling so hard / Momma, can you die from a broken heart?” The women passionately emote their raw feelings, as they ask their mothers and fathers for advice following a difficult break-up.

Continuing to showcase different sides of their talents, Maddie & Tae sing about heartbreak and picking up the pieces in a new and fresh way on the next track entitled, “Tourist In This Town.” Written by the women with Barry Dean and Jimmy Robbins, the lyrics are about re-acquainting yourself with where you live after a break-up and having to navigate the emotions of feeling lost and like a stranger in your own town.

Maddie & Tae continue to pour their hearts out in the title track. The delightfully country ballad may be the most poignant of the five tracks. Beginning with a simple, but impactful instrumental, the women attempt to warn other women about a man, who constantly goes from girl to girl, explaining that “he goes from one heart to another,” and more importantly that his actions are not their fault. “But I’m going to tell you what the last one told me / From one heart to another / From one ex to the next lover / I’ve felt that spell your under / That kiss underneath those covers / When it’s good it don’t get better / He’ll make you feel like it’s forever / but from one ex to the next lover / He goes from one hear to another.”

Rounding out the impressive EP, Maddie & Tae include a sassy, upbeat song, “New Dog Old Tricks.” Giving off Miranda Lambert vibes, the singer-songwriters confidently play the field, poking fun at men at bars that think they’ve got game with women. It’s an empowering cut that fans are sure to jam out to when they need a pick me up. “Hey, baby, let me guess / You’ve never felt this before / My beauty takes your breath/ Boy get that jaw off the floor / Not my first rodeo / I know the way this goes / Now what baby, got a bone to pick / New dogs, old tricks.”

In just a few days, Maddie & Tae will kick off their opening gig on Carrie Underwood’s all-female headlining ‘2019 Cry Pretty Tour 360,’ alongside Runaway June. The tour stops at New York City’s iconic Madison Square Garden on October 2nd. For tickets and more tour information head to maddieandtae.com.

To keep up with Maddie & Tae follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

One Heart To Another 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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NYCS First Impression: Dylan Scott ‘Nothing To Do Town’ EP

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Dylan Scott Nothing To Do Town

After major success with his debut self-titled album, including two Top 5 hits, “My Girl” and “Hooked,” singer-songwriter Dylan Scott has finally released a new project. Today, the Louisiana native dropped his EP, Nothing to Do Town, featuring his radio single- the title track, and five other heartfelt songs.

Calling it his most personal collection of songs to date, Scott co-penned five of the six songs off the EP, including the title track. “Nothing To Do Town” is upbeat and catchy. The hitmaker draws inspiration from his Northeast Louisiana roots, paying homage to the refreshing and uncomplicated life of small-town living. The song is at the 35 spot on the Billboard Country charts and continues to rise.

Throughout the months before the EP’s release, the entertainer shared some of the other tracks off the record, “You Got Me” and “Nobody.” The former is a passionate love song seemingly inspired by his wife; despite, being the only song Scott doesn’t receive writing credits on. The slow jam features catchy and relatable lyrics that would make a great single. Also a love song, “Nobody” shows a confident side to Scott, as he sings about unmatched passion in his romantic relationship.

Another love song on the record, “Anniversary” is one that fans may recognize. Although not released until today, the track is a song that Scott has posted clips of him singing on his social media, as well as performed during some of his live shows. The slow burn features the entertainer’s sultry vocals that add to the sexy and romantic nature of the song. “With skin that smooth / It’s hard to keep my hands off you / Got a few things in mind I want to do / Baby / Why save it / When I can lay you down now and later / Put some rose petals out on the sheets / Make this bedroom feel like a suite / Girl you know we ain’t even gotta leave / Tonight I’ll love you like / Love you like it’s our anniversary.”

Scott continues to make fans swoon with the empowering “Look At Us Now.” The deeply personal track, which mentions the singer’s baby boy, Beckett, is a celebratory song about his relationship with his wife, Blair and all they’ve accomplished as a family. It’s got an ‘us against the world” mentality, but any couple in love can definitely relate. Additionally, the musical arrangement and the mix of genres makes the song feel like one only Scott can deliver. “Living that good life with you baby / Everybody thought that we were crazy / But look at us now, look at us now / Baby, look at us now”

The hitmaker continues to find his sweet spot with “Honey I’m Home,” a song about feeling safe and at home, wherever his love is. Reminiscent of his hits “My Girl,” and “Passenger Seat,” the track is “…another song about you babe,” meaning his wife. Scott’s talent is undeniable, as he delivers track after track that would work well on the radio, at live shows, and with lyrics that connect so profoundly to the listener. “Honey I’m Home” is another jam that fits right into his signature sound.

Overall, Scott delivers a solid EP that is sure to get fans excited for his future full-length album. The record is the ultimate love letter to his wife, his son, his fans, and his hometown, making it well-rounded and enticing, just as an EP should be.

Scott recently wrapped up his headlining ‘Nothing to Do Town Tour.’ We caught the sold-out show on opening night at New York City’s Gramercy Theatre back in January. The singer-songwriter will return to the tri-state area on Sunday, May 26th at PNC Bank Arts Center in New Jersey, as an opener for Chris Young’s ‘Raised on Country Tour.’ For tickets and more information head to dylanscottcountry.com.

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

Nothing To Do Town EP 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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NYCS First Impression Randy Rogers Band ‘Hellbent’

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Hellbent Randy Rogers Band

The Texas band’s first album since 2016, Randy Rogers Band came straight for relatability with their fans through Hellbent. Together for over 17 years, their eighth album tells the stories of the trials and tribulations everyone goes through when life tries to knock us down, but we come back fighting every time. Some of the tracks describe that low place when you’re all out of ideas and almost ready to give up hope, while others portray the carefree ‘let fate decide’ attitude. The title Hellbent derives from the feeling that the band isn’t giving up and is hell bent on creating music, staying loyal to their fans, and riding the waves of the music industry. Produced with Dave Cobb and recorded in the legendary RCA Studio A, the album resonates with influence from all the ones who have recorded in that studio before.

The first song on the album, “Drinking Money” starts with a solitary, disconsolate emotion. When you’ve got too much on your mind, this song expresses the mood of putting on your “poker face” to cover up the hurt, and go to a bar and spend all of your drinking money in one place.

“I’ll Never Get Over You” comes running out of the gates right at the start, with a strong beat and catchy lyrics. It tells the story of someone reflecting on a relationship that is still fresh, and even though time is moving on, closure hasn’t and probably won’t come. It’s almost a ‘throw your hands up when you don’t know what went wrong’ kind of song. You’re still thinking about someone when they’ve already moved on, so you continue to sit on your porch and drink a beer.

The third song of the album slows down to a ballad and cuts right to the heart. “Anchors Away” describes the habit of a man leaving at the first sign of vulnerability, yet unable to change this defense mechanism and open up when he finally found someone worth changing for. “Anchors away works like a charm / First sign of danger, I pull the alarm, Something’s broken in me / I don’t wanna leave, I don’t know how to stay.”

The following track, “Comal County Line”, premiered before the album release and brings the band back to their home state of Texas. Playing on the road, the group often craved coming home to their old stomping grounds. Written with fellow songwriter Sean McConnell, this song is an upbeat expression of the band on their way back home, “Just a few more miles to the Comal County Line.” This is sure to be a huge hit on the band’s tour as they make their way through several cities in Texas.

“We Never Made it to Mexico” laments missing a girl who was supposed to join him on a trip to Mexico, but now is clearly with someone else. With a few Spanish phrases thrown in a country accent, it’s a comical but sad story that brings forth images of waiting at the airport without his cohort. With a little bit of a Jimmy Buffett flair, this song is definitely perfect for the beach this summer.

“Crazy People” is the early release single that is the eighth track on this album. This song is ‘drive down old country backroads’ music. It brings up the idea that even though our parents raised us strictly, they also might have just been the crazy people everyone talks about.

The gritty vocals on the verse of “Fire in the Hole” parallel the struggle of the relationship this song describes. It’s present with so much tension and insinuates that at any moment it could explode.

What seems to be a title leading to a funny tale of stress leading to the necessity of wine and some well-picked meme, “Wine in a Coffee Cup” doesn’t stop with a surface interpretation. Instead, it narrates the morning routine of a CEO woman who’s hurting like everyone else but hiding it from the world. This song describes drowning the sorrows of her life and escaping reality but maintaining the picture perfect image to the rest of the world.

The final song on the album, “Good One Coming On” brings back the hope of the future and expectations of good things coming our way. No matter what happens, it’ll all be okay. This album really takes you on a journey through the rough realities of life, but ends with an expression that life is wonderful and we might as well make what we can of it.

To keep up with Randy Rogers Band, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Hellbent 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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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression Brooks & Dunn Feature New Artists On ‘REBOOT’

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Brooks & Dunn REBOOT

Making their old hits new, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn have gotten together with some of country music’s hottest acts to repurpose and reimagine their biggest songs in the new album REBOOT. It has been over a decade since the best selling duo of all time released new music and exactly 10 years since they released anything at all, their last album #1s…and then some was a compilation of their hits.

For fans who are new to loving the genre, they may not be familiar with the duo or any of their songs however Brooks & Dunn have shaped the landscape of country music and helped cultivate and influence the artists that you know and love today. This new project allows fans of Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Ashley McBryde and so many more really dig into these tracks otherwise may have been lost on them.

Released first and prior to the full album, Luke Combs and Kane Brown’s contributions (“Brand New Man” and “Believe”) gave fans a taste of what to expect from REBOOT, without changing the songs melodically, they breathed new life into them.  “What’s really intriguing to me is that we didn’t do any production meetings about how we might cut these things,” Kix Brooks said in a recent press release. “We kind of just went in, and it morphed in the process.”

Choosing which songs out of their twenty, that’s right twenty number one hits, couldn’t have been easy but each track shows a different side of the duo’s outstanding discography. A standout on the record is “Ain’t Nothin’ Bout You” which features Brett Young’s soulful and sultry vocals. Young starts the song with the familiar lyrics, sonically slowing things down to accentuate the words, changing things just a bit, instead of singing to the girl, they are singing about her to each other. The addition of a saxophone solo adds a sexy spunk to the vibe, making this track one of the best on the record.

Currently one of the most talked about country acts, Kacey Musgraves who humbly took home Album of the Year at this year’s Grammy Awards is featured on “Neon Moon”. Her sweet voice highlights the buzzing neon signs in bars that will always welcome you back when experiencing heartbreak.  The decision to have a female voice adds so much to the two tracks on the record, the ACM New Female of the Year Ashley McBryde adds her grit and unique vocals to “You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone”.

Possibly one of their most popular songs, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” is energized by Grammy-nominated Midland who’s debut album is filled with songs just like their cover for REBOOT. Their version is perfect for dance halls and bars across America.

While every song on the record is an absolute proven gem, when Texas native, Cody Johnson starts off the last chorus alone on “Red Dirt Road” over a quiet acoustic guitar, it will make you fall in love with the song that has been a classic since its release in 2003.

It was just recently revealed that Brooks & Dunn will be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame later this year. Making timeless hits brand new again, fans Brooks & Dunn and fans of these modern day country artists will have a record to blast for years to come.

To keep up with Brooks & Dunn, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

REBOOT 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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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Jake Owen ‘Greetings From…Jake’

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Jake Owen Greetings From Jake

After three long years, Florida native and ACM nominated, Jake Owen, has given fans what they have wanted for so long. Greetings from…Jake is Owen’s debut full-length album with Big Loud Records who signed him in late 2017.

The cover art is stylized as a retro postcard that was inspired by postcards from Owen’s childhood and highlight his Floridian roots. This new album reunites Jake with producer Joey Moi, who was at the helm of some of his biggest hits in the past, including “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” “Beachin’” and “Alone With You.”

The album’s lead single, “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” was inspired by young love and also pays homage to John Mellencamp and his iconic hit. The song also became Owen’s seventh No. 1 hit when it was released to country radio in 2018. The follow-up single to the album, “Down to the Honkytonk” is currently in the Top 10 and nominated for ACM Single of the Year at the 54th Annual ACM Awards on April 7th.

“Grass is Always Greener” is a highlight on the record and not because it features the one and only Kid Rock. This feel-good track focuses on appreciating what you have and living life to the fullest without wanting for more. “We’re always gonna want a little more than we got / yeah that just the way the big world turns / ridin’ that stock market rocket, holes in your pocket, if there’s just one thing I’ve learned / If your mad at the man, or mad at the hand you were dealt, with well then you’re missing the point, the grass is always greener in somebody else’s joint.”  We can already see this being a hit during Owen’s live show and a definite hit while you are floating in your pool or on a lake this summer.

Another standout is “Homemade”, written by Bobby Pinson, Drew Parker, Jared Mullins, and Ben Goldsmith, the midtempo track will make you miss the simple pleasures of life and if you have moved away, miss your home town and all the comforts it brings. “Home made me love a dirt road / home made me crave some ice cold, homemade sweet tea only mama knows how to make, yeah homemade / home made me love a small town / home made me want to settle down in a homemade for the two of us / everything I love is homemade.” 

“In It” is Owen’s striking new ballad that was written by Jimmy Robbins, Josh Thompson, and Laura Veltz. The track is a nostalgic song about looking back on a relationship and recalling old memories, hoping the woman he set free will always think back fondly on their time together.  Like many of the songs, sonically Owen has gone back to a traditional country sound, the lyrics are smoothly laid over a simple acoustic and slide guitar.

Greetings From…Jake offers listeners the perfect songs to so many of life’s situations including, ending a relationship, drinking a cold beer, reminiscing on simpler times and recognizing that if you just slow down and take a look around, life is pretty great. Owen’s debut release on Big Loud Records brings him back to the roots where his fans first fell in love with him and we believe this album will be one that will encourage repeat spins for the entire year.

Fans can catch Owen and all of his new music on April 2nd in the big apple at Marquee for a sold-out show. To keep up with Owen follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Greetings from…Jake 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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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: George Strait ‘Honky Tonk Time Machine’

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George Strait Honky Tonk Time Machine

George Strait has no need to prove himself to the music community, as he is already deemed the King of Country Music, although his newest project adds more truth to that title than ever. Some people thought Strait was done making music as he plays his famous shows in Vegas and makes only special outside appearances, such as the Houston Rodeo, but they were wrong. Strait’s 30th studio album, titled Honky Tonk Time Machine, was released this morning (March 29th) and fans old and young are ready for some new music.

Honky Tonk Time Machine includes 13 songs written by Strait himself, legendary songwriter Dean Dillon, Bubba Strait, and others including Nashville’s very own Lori McKenna. To surprise fans with the album announcement, Strait released a new song “God and Country Music,” penned by Luke Laird, Barry Dean and Lori McKenna and features a special guest an appearance by Strait’s grandson Harvey. Describing the two subjects hand in hand, Strait sings, “It’s a dance between the sin and salvation/Come hell and high water, there’s still two things worth saving, God and country music.”

“I’m really excited to have some new music coming out,” says Strait in a recent press release. “It’s been about two years since I’ve released a record. It was great writing with Bubba and Dean again and creating such a beautiful song with Bubba and Jeff Hyde. Also, it was a very special thing for me to be able to write and sing one with the legendary Willie Nelson. I hope everyone enjoys listening to Honky Tonk Time Machine as much as I enjoyed making it.” We are so glad the album is finally here and we can get our daily dose of new Strait music.

Diving deeper into the album you will find songs you didn’t know you needed to exist. “What Goes Up” is a slower ballad that reminds us of “I Saw God Today.” Strait sings, “I believe when I pray somebody hears and when I fall on my knees my words aren’t fallen on deaf ears and he has the answers when the answers can’t be found, and oh without a doubt what goes up comes down.” The title track “Honky Tonk Time Machine” brings back the old sounds of country music. Painting the picture of the famous old school ballroom in Austin, the song tells the story of hard-working, blue-collar Americans who spend their nights dancing in honky-tonks and throwing quarters into jukeboxes.

One of the songs that have gotten a lot of attention lately is “Weight of the Badge” and as huge supporters of first responders and military here at New York Country Swag, it is one of our favorites too. The song was revealed at Strait’s Vegas show and after being captured by fans it went viral. The song tells the story of a police officer who followed in the footsteps of his father, leaving his family each day for the last 15 years to step into the line of duty. “He swore that oath to protect and serve / Pours his heart and soul into both those words / Tempered strength is always tough / But he ain’t gonna buckle / Under the weight of the badge,” Strait sings soulfully.

Other songs on the album include Strait’s December release “Codigo,” a song about his favorite drink, all the good times in life and is loaded with his signature twang. “Blue Water” makes you long for some time on the lake, ocean, or river with some sun in the sky to drown all your troubles in, in order to feel like a brand new man again. A pleasant surprise is Strait’s cover of Johnny Paycheck’s classic weeper “Old Violin” as well as a recorded version of the duet “Sing One with Willie,” which he recently debuted at the all-star Willie Nelson tribute in Nashville.

Strait will celebrate the release of the new album with thousands of fans during his one-night-only show at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta one day after the album’s release, on March 30th.

To keep up with George Strait follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook “Honky Tonk Time Machine” 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.

Honky Tonk Time Machine Track Listing & Songwriters

“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“Two More Wishes” (Jim Lauderdale and Odie Blackmon”
“Some Nights” (Bubba Strait, Brice Long and Phillip White)
“God and Country Music” with Harvey Strait (Luke Laird, Barry Dean and Lori McKenna)
“Blue Water” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“Sometimes Love” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“Código” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“Old Violin” (Johnny Paycheck)
“Take Me Away” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“The Weight of the Badge” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon)
“Honky Tonk Time Machine” (Bubba Strait, Brice Long and Bart Butler)
“What Goes Up” (George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Jeff Hyde)
“Sing One with Willie” featuring Willie Nelson (George Strait, Willie Nelson, Bubba Strait, and Buddy Cannon)

 

 

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NYCS First Impression LOCASH ‘Brothers’

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LOCASH Brothers

LOCASH’s highly anticipated album Brothers is officially available everywhere you buy or stream music. This is the duos first full-length album release on their new record label, Wheelhouse Records/ Broken Bow Records. Brothers features eleven tracks including songs written by Nashville’s top songwriters. This new album is all about brotherhood, positivity, and bringing people together. Listeners first taste of the duo’s cheerful project was back in August with the release of their single “Feels Like a Party”. This track well deservingly debuted at country radio as #1 most added. It was written by LOCASH’s own Preston Brust and Chris Lucas along with the co-producers, Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard and Corey Crowder.

The album starts off with a track called “One Big Country Song” and it’s exactly what the title sounds like. The ACM Duo of the Year nominees sang this one during our Swag Session earlier in the week and it sets the tone for the entire record. Written by Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, and upcoming artist Michael Hardy, this song is a fun, upbeat, potential single that’ll get everyone weekend ready. Next, the track “Summer in a Truck” is the first song you need to start a summer playlist. The writers include Ben Hayslip, Zach Crowell, and the one-and-only Rhett Akins. This is a window down, radio up, and a beach-ready track that can take over country radio during the summertime.

There are two drinking tracks that are going to catch fans attention. One is “Cold Beer Kinda Night” written by Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley, and Rhett Akins. The lyrics of this catchy tune will be stuck in your head right after listening to it.“Whatcha’ say we go / Crank up the radio / Old Alabama singing feels so right / Pop a top or two / Baby right with you until the moon runs out of light”

The other drinking track “Beers to Catch up On” is penned by Rhett Akins, Jeremy Stover, and Paul DiGiovanni. The chorus includes the lyrics “We got some years / We got some beers to catch up on” talking about going back in time to their childhood and reminiscing on the fun they used to have.

Although the title is Brothers, the album encourages a positive message of everyone getting along, seeing past our differences and enjoying life.  We can already see the fans at their live show singing along to each track, waving lighters in the air and lifting up their drinks toasting to a great night of music.

To keep up with LOCASH follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Brothers 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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NYCS First Impression Dustin Lynch ‘Ridin’ Roads EP

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Dustin Lynch EP

Country music heartthrob Dustin Lynch is back with new music and has released an EP with three new tracks, including his newest single “Ridin’ Roads”.  Lynch is no stranger to being atop the country music charts, as he has six number ones to date with his latest hit being “Good Girl.” Fans have been eager for the singer-songwriter to release new music and no one will be disappointed after listening to the three featured songs: “Ridin’ Roads”, “Little Town Livin”, and “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes”. He keeps up with his down-home, feel good, edgy back road country style that everyone loves.

Lynch’s new single “Ridin’ Roads” is a slow and steady depiction of ditching a standard nightclub or bar and escaping to the countryside with that special someone. Lynch sings, “Ridin’ roads that don’t nobody go down, a little trip through the countryside, these 38’s making the world go round, I hit a curb just to make you slide,” and perfectly describes the desire and admiration you feel while lost down a secluded country road.

Forget all of your worries with the second track “Little Town Livin'” as Lynch sings about a perfect night out in a small town. He starts off the verse talking/rapping and then sings the chorus ” We’re just little town livin’, where the sun goes down, we’re gonna ride, turnin’ dirt into dust, yeah that’s a ticket, we’re just little town livin’ it up.” It is nothing but good times in Lynch’s eyes as he continues with “Twist it off, turn it up, pass it around, no other place id rather be right now,” he makes us all feel like we are “Little Town Livin'” it up in a small town with him. This slower tempo, r&b infused track shows a new side to the Grand Ole Opry member who continues to explore different techniques and sounds.

The third track “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes” is a mid-tempo song about a getaway trip with a girl alongside him; a time where they dust off a bottle by the river and unwind. Lynch sings, “Gotta get you on some red dirt, get lost in your blue eyes, I want to see a little suntan, lit up in the moonlight, gonna dance you in the midnight sky, kiss you bout’ a thousand times,” and there is nothing more romantic than that.

The three tracks off of Lynch’s EP will remind you of old fashion romantic nights spending it with the one you love and making the most out of life with friends in a small town however he is continuously showcasing what a talented singer-songwriter he is by sonically branching out into new directions. Not to mention, he is also an incredible performer.

Lynch is currently on tour with Thomas Rhett for his “Very Hot Summer” tour now through October. Be sure to check out the dates here: dustinlynchmusic.com and New Yorkers, grab your tickets when the tour rolls through town at Madison Square Garden on September 20th. 

Lynch’s new music 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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NYCS First Impression: Maren Morris ‘GIRL’

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Maren Morris GIRL

Nearly three years since the release of her debut album HERO, Grammy award-winning artist Maren Morris has finally released her second full-length studio album today, entitled GIRL. Morris co-wrote each of the fourteen tracks with a variety of songwriters, including her husband Ryan Hurd, who also contributed harmonizing vocals on the mesmerizing track, “Great Ones.”

Morris also put on her producing hat for the lead single and title track, “GIRL” with Greg Kurstin, who essentially produced the entire record. The Texas native has incorporated a beautiful blend of unique sounds, powerful lyrics, and badass girl power into this album. Opening up with the title-track and lead single, “GIRL” sets the tone for the stories being told throughout the remaining thirteen tracks. The female empowerment anthem dignifies the concept that there is no need for competition between women, and we should learn to truly love ourselves.

Morris debuted the second track, “Feels” while on tour with Niall Horan last summer. She expresses her preconceived feelings in this upbeat, gushy tune. “You don’t gotta light a candle / You don’t have to set the mood / What you’ve got to understand though / I’m already into you / It’s chemistry, meant to be / Incomprehensibly / Tangled up in it / Yeah boy you’re giving me the feels”

“All My Favorite People” is one of two collaborations on the record, this one featuring her platinum-selling pals, Brothers Osborne.  Morris, TJ and John have some fun with the track, explaining why they are each other’s, favorite people. And of course, no Brothers Osborne song is complete without an impressive guitar solo. This country-rock song is truly a jam.  “A Song for Everything” follows in the style of “My Church,” a nostalgic tribute to music itself. The singer-songwriter discusses life’s highs and the lows,  adamant that there is a song connected to every situation we all experience.

Morris has never felt the need or want to fit into a “box”, creatively or personally and the rebellious track “Flavor” is a true representation of that. She sings in the chorus, “I’m cooking up my own flavor / Even if it ain’t your style / You’re only seeing one layer / Original can take a while / Making a mess, straight outta scratch / Think what you think about that / Oh I’m just trying to make good a little bit greater”.  The song’s bridge contains some of the most powerful lyrics in all of the singer-songwriter’s discography, “I speak my peace / don’t do what I’m told / ‘Shut up and sing’ / Well, hell no I won’t”

“Make Out With Me” and “RSVP” are the two seductive tracks on this record, the sultry lyrics show a mature side of Morris, while the most vulnerable track on this record is “To Hell & Back.” The mid-tempo ballad tells the story of her partner’s willingness to love her fully, no matter what the circumstances.  “The Bones,” tells the story of a long-lasting relationship that can make it through anything, as long as the foundation it’s built on is strong and honest.

Closing out the record is “Shade” a love song, in which she finds her perfect match. “Baby, you’re my color / Custom made / Think I finally discovered you’re my perfect shade”  Morris displays no signs of holding back in terms of musical style or lyrics on this record. It candidly encapsulates the songstress’ authentic artistry and passion for music. GIRL is an intimate and cultivated level up from HERO.

Morris will head out to promote this project on her headlining ‘GIRL: The World Tour.’ The forty-two date run will stop in New York City on Friday, May 3rd at Brooklyn Steel and Saturday, May 4th at Terminal 5. Tickets are available now. Visit marenmorris.com for a full list of dates.

GIRL 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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