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.

 

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Kane Brown MixTape Vol. 1

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Kane Brown Mixtape

Country superstar, Kane Brown dropped his highly anticipated Mix Tape Vol. 1 today (August 14). It contains seven tracks, all of which co-written by Brown, and includes singles “Cool Again” and “Be Like That” as well as three brand new songs. This is his first multi‐song project since his Platinum‐certified sophomore album, Experiment.

“Cool Again,” his current single on country radio, was inspired by a chilly night on a songwriting retreat. The song was originally about missing warm weather, but Brown and his writing team–Josh Hodge, Lindsay Rimes, and Matt McGinn—turned into a song about a relationship that recently fell apart. The singer just wants him and his ex to be ‘cool again’ and get back to last summer when they were happy together. Brown released a remix to the song with Nelly last week. Watch the video below:

“Be Like That,” his collaboration with Swae Lee and Khalid, is his current single to pop radio. Debuted back in February during his Worldwide Beautiful Tour but officially released on July 10th, this song is about someone contemplating whether or not they want to continue their relationship. The protagonist has a lot of negative things to say about this woman, but can’t understand why he’s not himself when she’s not around. “Be Like That” was the #1 most added song on top-40 radio the week after it was released on stations all across America, including New York’s own Z100.

Other previously released songs on this mixtape include “Worldwide Beautiful,” his song about acceptance and racial equality, and his collaboration with John Legend, “The Last Time I Say Sorry.” The latter, released on March 27th, is a love ballad in which the two display their vulnerability, regret, love, and compassion while, at the same time, showcase their strength and masculinity. The former of which was released ahead of schedule, as Brown used this song to express his thoughts on the aftermath of the death of George Floyd. He leaned heavily on his R&B influence for this track and all proceeds from the song are being funded to the Boys and Girls Club. He performed it at the BET Awards on June 28th. Watch it below:

“Didn’t Know What Love Was” sounds like nothing Brown has ever done before. With prevalent electric guitar, this track brings a 70s rock-sound to the EP. In the song, Brown states that he didn’t believe in love until he met this particular woman who changed his outlook on it. “Worship You” is another love song with a much different vibe. Brown blends a variety of string instruments with a backing bass beat, as the singer praises his significant other and describes her traits in religious terms; her kisses have a higher power, her body is divine and her smile makes him see the light. He teased this track on Instagram on May 15th. The video he posted features Brown and his wife, Katelyn dancing in the kitchen, singing to their daughter, Kingsley.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m a God-fearing Christian man / but if you were a religion then, damn / I don’t know what I’d do / I might have to worship you”

Just when you think Kane Brown is about to go fully pop, he drops a song like “BFE” to show he’s still country. BFE essentially means “middle of nowhere” (look up the actual definition on your own time) and this 90s country-sounding anthem praises the south and smalltown living. The fiddle and steel guitar on this track make it the perfect tailgate jam.

“I’m talkin’ Florida, ‘Bama, Georgia, Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas to Tennessee / So raise your beers, cheers, here’s to BFE”

Blending the genre line is what Kane Brown does best, and this mixtape is the epitome of that. Using his abundance of influences, he continues to showcase his creativity and shape the next generation of country music.

 

Kane Brown’s Mixtape Vol. 1 Track Listing:

  1. “Cool Again” (Kane Brown, Josh Hoge, Matt McGinn, Lindsay Rimes)
  2. “Be Like That” (Kane Brown, Khalif Brown, Alexander “Eskeerdo” Izquierdo, Khalid Robinson, Ryan Vojtesak, Mike Will)
  3. “Worship You” (Kane Brown, Alexander Izquierdo, Ryan Vojtesak, Matt McGinn)
  4. “BFE” (Kane Brown, Sam Ellis, Matt McGinn, Taylor Phillips, Will Weatherly)
  5. “Didn’t Know What Love Was” (Kane Brown, Shy Carter, Matt McGinn, Lindsay Rimes)
  6. “Last Time I Say Sorry (Kane Brown, John Stephens, Matt McGinn, Andrew Goldstein)
  7. “Worldwide Beautiful” (Kane Brown, Shy Carter, Ryan Hurd, Jordan Schmidt)

 

NYCS Picks:
1. BFE
2. Worship You

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

Kane Brown’s Mix Tape Vol. 1 is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

 

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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!

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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Morgan Wallen Finally Drops Fan Favorite “7 Summers”

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7 Summers Morgan Wallen

All quarantine long, superstar in the making, Morgan Wallen has been keeping fans entertained via social media, teasing unreleased music, and playing music on Instagram Live. Continuing to keep fans happy, Wallen finally released the song everyone has been begging for, “7 Summers,” which has even been trending on TikTok.

As we anticipate the release of his sophomore album, “7 Summers” is just another taste of what’s to come, following “This Bar” and chart-rising single, “More Than My Hometown.” The brand new jam features everything that Wallen does best, including relatable lyrics and that East Tennessee charm. The singer reminisces about a long lost love in the personal and nostalgic song.

“Probably got a big ol’ diamond on your hand right now / Maybe a baby or a couple by now / Long driveway to a big white house / But I wonder when you’re drinking if you / find yourself thinking about / that boy from East Tennessee”

Written by Wallen with big name songwriters Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne, “7 Summers” shares a story that so many can relate to. Everyone knows how it feels to look back into the past and think about where someone is now or what would have happened if circumstances were different. The rising artist manages to combine nostalgic lyrics with captivating and irresistible charm.

We expect “7 Summers” to be another hit to add to Wallen’s catalog of successful songs. It is only the beginning, and fans can rejoice that more new music is sure to come!

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

“7 Summers” 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

 

—————

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:

What We’re Listening To: August Picks

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NYCountry Swag’s “What We’re Listening To” playlist highlights the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre.  At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our August picks. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

AUGUST PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Just About Over You” – Priscilla Block
Songwriters: Emily Kroll, Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones

This month I chose country newcomer Priscilla Block’s “Just About Over You”. When I first heard the a cappella version she posted on Instagram before the official release, I was immediately drawn to the honest and raw lyrics. 

“Why’d you have to come back in right then // Right when I was just getting good and gone? //
‘Cause I was in the wrong place at the wrong time // You must’ve heard I was moving on”

I think most people can connect with that moment when you think you’re just about over someone and then you run into them or something reminds you of them and it opens a floodgate of all of those emotions that you thought you had moved on from. Block’s ability to not only pinpoint those relatable feelings in her songwriting but to flawlessly deliver the track in such a vocally pleasing way makes her for sure an artist to watch. 

 

Christina Bosch, Managing Editor 

Pick: “Forged In the Fire” – Caylee Hammack
Songwriters: Andy Skib, Caylee Hammack, Thomas Finchum

Although Caylee Hammack revealed that this track was written after her home burned down in an actual fire, the lyrics ring true for this absolutely transformational year and era that we are living in. “Forged in the Fire” is sonically pleasing, it builds through the song, similar to the way a person who has been beaten down, picks up what is left of their life and moves on. The chorus questions how much can the human spirit take and when is there a light at the end of something so traumatizing.

“When does a phoenix learn how to fly? / Do I get my wings when I stop asking why? / How do I start moving on, moving past, stop holding on, looking back / When God’s hell-bent on making me a fighter, forged in the fire”

Facing hardships these past 6 months has made me really question God on when things will start looking up but music will always be there, the ability to hear a song, and have it change my entire outlook on something remains true through a pandemic or not.

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Chasin’ Me” – Caroline Jones
Songwriters: Caroline Jones

Since last summer, I have been obsessed with the breezy, effortless “Chasin’ Me” by Caroline Jones. It’s rare that an artist is as involved in their projects as Jones is; she writes, arranges, and produces each track. The layers of dreamy harmonies are ethereal and her electric guitar work is stunning. It is the perfect summer song! Feeling reminiscent of a time pre-pandemic, I’ve been listening to this song on repeat. Everything about “Chasin’ Me” is atmospheric.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Happy Does” – Kenny Chesney
Songwriters: Brad Clawson, Brock Berryhill, Greylan James, Jamie Paulin

“Happy Does” is definitely my favorite song off his most recent record, Here and Now. Happiness may be hard to find for some, especially in times like these, but Chesney has a simple solution: do things that make you happy. People aren’t born happy or sad, they are what they do. By listening to upbeat music, mixing your favorite drink, surrounding yourself with the people you love, and staying away from the media allows us to look at life in a positive light. Our mental health is extremely important in these trying times and we have to fill our days with joy, instead of more bad news.

“Drink a beer just because / Steal a slow dance in a rainstorm / And a kiss from who you love / Laugh and live with a half full cup / Yeah, happy is as happy does”

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Bad Mother Trucker” – Eric Church
Songwriters: Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Luke Dick, and Jeremy Spillman

Anytime there’s new Eric Church music, the ante is automatically raised. Even though “Bad Mother Trucker” isn’t a particularly deep song, I do believe it has a greater meaning: women are just as capable as men at getting the job done. Church’s voice screams rock ‘n roll in this song and even has an incredible guitar solo in the middle. Joanna Cotten’s background vocals are the perfect counterpart to the gritty lyrics and beat.

She drove an ’81 Peterbilt 18-wheeler // Jet black with pink mud flaps // It was a mean piece of metal with lightning in the pedal // Thunder comin’ out the back // And them boys would chuckle when they saw her buckle // Herself in the captain’s seat // But nobody was laughin’ when she’d go to passin’ // Smilin’ at them real sweet

I can’t remember a Church song I didn’t like. His songwriting ability is unparalleled and I can’t wait to see what he has in store for the rest of 2020.

 

Jeremy Chua, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Feels Like Home” – Tyler Rich
Songwriters: Tyler Rich, Andrew DeRoberts, Jon Nite

I usually have really poignant and sad cuts picked out for this monthly feature. But, I think the world’s already as “sad” as it can be, ha. So, what better song to blast and put on repeat than Tyler Rich’s “Feels Like Home”? It’s just an overall feel-good anthem about toasting to the simplicity of a good get-together. “I came here tonight to forget why I’m here / If you’re with me then why don’t you raise up your beer / Dance with a stranger that you’d like to know / ‘Cause it feels like home,” Rich sings in the chorus. The uplifting track reminds listeners (and me!) to celebrate the here and now, and not let go of the joy of being in our “home.” Turn this one up loud for the rest of summer, and enjoy the good times with family and friends!

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Any Man Of Mine” – Shania Twain
Songwriters: Robert John “Mutt” Lange, Shania Twain

The 1995 hit “Any Man of Mine” has found a home inside my brain over the last few weeks. It’s a song that practically demands to be on full volume with unofficial vocal accompaniment during car rides, bedroom jam sessions and girls nights. I, without fail, sing it loud and proud in hopes that the maxed out volume will drown me out and, instead, focus on Shania Twain’s unmistakable tone.

Lyrically, “Any Man of Mine” is genius. Robert John “Mutt” Lange and the world-renowned artist herself wrote this song that has become a reminder for women that they’re worth so much more than what they might have been given thus far. It’s a reminder to not settle for any undeserving or impassive man.

 

Alexa Ebner, Contributing Writer

Pick: “The Stranger” (Reimagined) – Ingrid Andress
Songwriters: Ingrid Andress, Ryan Lafferty

“The Stranger” by Ingrid Andress, a song that was included in her debut album “Lady Like” earlier this year, is a gorgeous song. Luckily for us fans, the singer recently released a stripped-down, piano version – which takes the song to an entirely new level. This new version is very intimate, and almost solely features a piano and Andress’ captivating, magical voice. Andress has revealed to fans that this special song was inspired by her own parent’s love story, and you can feel the raw emotion radiate through her voice as she sings. This song showcases the story of two lovers who wish to forget all of the hardships their relationship has endured, and go back to a place where it can be pure again. The colorful imagery and wistful nostalgia beautifully convey the message restoring love and reconnecting. Be sure to check out this new rendition of “The Stranger”.

 

Julia Grubbs, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Gaslighter” – The Chicks
Songwriters: Emily Strayer, Jack Antonoff, Martie Maguire, Natalie Maines

I grew up with the album Fly as an adolescent wannabe performer dancing in my childhood room to the powerful female anthems and catchy tunes of these gals. It wasn’t until my roommate was playing “Gaslighter” that I remembered the strength with which their songs were a part of my memory. And they did not disappoint this time around. The a cappella harmonies at the beginning draw you right in, followed by the smooth verse and captivating chorus. They never fail to tell a tale and poetically wrap up the experiences of an individual. Now that they’re back, I can’t wait to see what’s next.

 

Pick: “Beers and Sunshine” – Darius Rucker
Songwriters: Darius Rucker, J.T Harding, Josh Osborne, Ross Copperman

My August pick is “Beers and Sunshine” by Darius Rucker. This summer has been far from ideal especially with no concerts. This song is the perfect reminder to forget about all the craziness. When I listen to it I instantly take a breath and think about all the good things to happen especially quality time spent with loved ones. It also isn’t bad to listen to with your favorite drink of choice.

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “GIVE HEAVEN SOME HELL” – HARDY
Songwriters: Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, Michael Hardy

I truly believe HARDY can do no wrong! Everything he touches turns to gold in my mind. I have truly loved or grown to love every release he has had so far and every song he has written or co-written. My song pick this month, “GIVE HEAVEN SOME HELL” is just another example of how incredibly talented HARDY is.

The song is everything I want in a country song. The lyrics are catchy, yet meaningful, and the song just hooks you in. I am in awe of HARDY’s masterful way of weaving together sentiments, and I could not be more excited for his next record. I already know it’s going to one of my favorites of the year. If you haven’t jumped aboard the HARDY train, do so, and fast!

 

Listen to our picks on our “What We’re Listening To” playlist on Spotify and be sure to give it a follow, so you can catch our monthly updates.

 

—————

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:

Jerrod Niemann Releases Two Tracks off Upcoming Project ‘Lost and Found’

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Jerrod Niemann

Photo Credit: Ryan Hamblin

After two years, and his first independent release in 15 years, Jerrod Niemann has returned with new music. Two songs off of the upcoming album, “Ghost Rider” and “Tequila Kisses”, introduce a rebranded, refocused artist that has once again been able to feel pride with his own music.

These new tracks, produced by the “Lover Lover” singer himself, take on a creative, compelling, and authentic feel that has never truly been heard from Niemann before. The lyrics hold a story, though, an abstract and unrevealing layer enables listeners to attempt to connect the dots through individual interpretation.

“’Ghost Rider’ was a song idea I came up with after going through my divorce,” Niemann explains in a statement. “People are often creatures of habit, and when you lose that person that has been constantly by your side for years, it’s like they are a ‘Ghost Rider’ in your life – at least for a little while. Hopefully, anyone going through a tough time will go for a ride, roll the windows down, and listen to this song – and maybe it will help them clear their heads and get some things figured out.”

Co-written by Brad Warren, Brett Warren, Niemann, and Lance Miller, “Ghost Rider” walks alongside many “love gone wrong” country songs such as Brett Young’s “Don’t Wanna Write This Song” or Luke Combs’ “Used to You”.

“I watched you leave, I watched you go / So, why’s it still feel like you’re next to me / Rolling down this back road / I try to drown you out with the radio too loud / But every song’s about you / Ghost Rider, Ghost Rider, yeah / Ghost Rider, Ghost Rider”

“Tequila Kisses”, co-written by Lee Brice and John Stone, is a unique a cappella track that Niemann recorded himself in his home studio called the Red Room. The song features 50 different vocals, all executed by the gold-certified “What Do You Want From Me” singer. It’s a mesmerizing and beautiful piece that is enhanced by Niemann’s soothing tone.

“Tequila kisses, going down / Getting longer, with every round / She don’t know me, she don’t mind / Tequila kisses tonight”

This new era of music, and the upcoming collection Lost and Found, is given to his listeners directly from Niemann. As a newly-independent artist, he is able to focus on finding a sound that fits the his new brand after 15 years in the genre.

To keep up with Jerrod Niemann, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

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

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

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:

I Love New York with Kylie Morgan

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Our ‘I Love New York’ Series features artists in the country music community taking over our Instagram Story each week to give us the Top 5 Things they love most about New York City.

This week, singer-songwriter Kylie Morgan took over to give her Top 5 Picks in the personalized videos here on Instagram Highlights plus a rundown below. Morgan just released the official music video to her debut single, “Break Things” check it out here…

 

#5 – The NYC Subway

Morgan kicks off her Top 5 Picks with the NYC Subway! Morgan says, “I am an awful driver and have so much anxiety every time I get behind the wheel, so the fact that I can just simply go places without even thinking about driving is my absolute favorite.”

 

#4 – Rockaway Beach, NY

Next up, Morgan shouts out Rockaway Beach located in Queens, NY, and just a short ferry ride away from Manhattan as her number 4 pick. “I took a ferry to get there with my best friend Lauren and met Steph from NYCountry Swag. We had an absolute blast on the beach and I will definitely be back there sooner than later,” she says.

 

#3 – The Restaurants 

The restaurants all over New York City take Morgan’s # 3 spot. “I feel like you could eat at a different restaurant every night for five years and still have new places to go. There’s so much to do and so many things to see and I love that,” Morgan adds.

 

#2 – Active City

In her number 2 spot, Kylie Morgan includes how active everyone in the city is in her Top 5 picks. “Everyone is always walking, which if you know me at all, I am a huge component of getting 12,000 steps in a day, so I love that everyone travels by walking and is always active.”

 

#1 – The Energy

Morgan’s #1 Pick for her Top 5 Things she loves about NYC in our ‘I Love New York’ Series is: the Energy! Morgan says, “I feel like everyone there is there for a purpose and has dreams and is so driven and you feel that as soon as you land in New York. Everyone is just so excited to be there and ready to become the best version of themselves.”

 

For more from our ‘I Love New York’ Series, follow us on Instagram: @NYCOUNTRYSWAG

To keep up with Kylie Morgan follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Break Things” is now 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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

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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 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!

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

 

Dan + Shay Announce Rescheduled 2021 Tour Dates

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As 2020 shows and tours are continuously canceled or postponed throughout the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan + Shay’s The (Arena) 2020 Tour becomes the latest to post an update. The entire tour is being postponed and shifted to brand new 2021 dates.

This morning Grammy-award winning duo Dan + Shay took to Instagram to share the new dates, adding a heartfelt message to their fans.

 “thank you to our fans for being so patient while we worked through the rescheduling of the (arena) tour. we’re absolutely crushed that it wasn’t able to happen this year, but your safety is more important to us than anything, so we made the difficult decision to move the tour to 2021. even though it seems like an eternity, the new year will be here before we know it, and we promise it will be worth the wait.  we miss you all so much (seriously, more than you even know), and hope that you’re staying well in the meantime.  all tickets for the original shows will be honored at the rescheduled dates.  and it hurts our hearts to say this, but unfortunately, some of the shows were not able to be rescheduled.  we tried everything in our power to include as many as we possibly could, but the global pandemic has left our industry fighting an uphill battle, especially when it comes to logistics.  if your show is one that has been canceled, or if you are unable to attend a rescheduled date, you can get a refund at your point of purchase.  details aside, just know that we care about every single one of you, and are grateful, as always, for your continued support.  it’s been a rollercoaster of a year, but hopefully we’ll become better because of it.  much love to all, and see you on the road in 2021. 💛”

 

One of the big highlights in their 2020 tour announcement was a SOLD OUT stop at Madison Square Garden. Luckily for New York Country music fans, the new dates include a show at ‘The World’s Most Famous Arena’ on September 16th, 2021.

For a full list of the new dates, visit the Instagram post here.

Tickets purchased for 2020 will be honored for the rescheduled 2021 dates. All ticket holders will be emailed directly with their refund options.

The new dates for the tour announcement comes on the heels of their latest project, “I Should Probably Go To Bed”, a brand new song which was released on Friday (July 31st).

To keep up with Dan + Shay, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

 

—————

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:

Who Is Drew Green? The Story Behind His Journey to Country Music

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Who is Drew Green? The singer-songwriter joined us to chat about his journey to country music. Get to know the rising star here…

Drew Green

“You just gotta chase your gut. A dream is a gut feeling.  So I think that’s really why you can’t explain it.”

This week we are featuring a new Sony Music Nashville signee, Drew Green as a Swag Spotlight Artist. Although new to the artist side of things, Green possesses the talent, determination, and the skills needed to make it in this tough industry.

Born and raised on a tree farm in a town called McMinnville in Middle Tennessee, Green reminisces about what it was like riding on a tractor with his father at a young age. “I just listened to my headphones all day long,” he laughs, “I have a pretty eclectic taste in music, but I listened to a lot of country, that’s my roots, a lot of Alan Jackson, a lot of Sammy Kershaw.”

Those early influences kept the budding singer-songwriter on the trajectory towards music. He started singing and writing music in high school and played shows in college while working towards obtaining a finance degree. With no real plan to pursue music, Green was discovered by a man named Steve Smith who just so happened to own one of the biggest bars in Music City, Tootsies World Famous Orchid Lounge. Green took the invitation and ended up playing at the Nashville spot for 6 months,  honing his entertainer side.

Eventually, the singer started to pursue a “normal” life, leaving performing to go work at a bank for two years with his wife by his side; however, music was still in his blood. He continued to write and craft his songwriting ability but knew something was missing. “I realized I had been writing a whole lot and kind of missed playing live, so I called up Tootsies and they remembered me, and they gave me like the best gig ever [that night],” adding, “I played there four nights a week […] and I wrote songs every day.”

With over a thousand songs to his name, Green has really solidified himself as a prolific songwriter in the industry, even landing a publishing deal after Florida Georgia Line cut his song “Colorado.” As fate would have it, there were even bigger plans in store for Green. After a meeting with Brett James, James told Green, “I think you’re ready for a record deal.”

Ultimately the singer signed with Sony Music Nashville, and since then has released two songs under the label, “Little More Be Alright” and “Right Where I Be.” The former was inspired by a buddy from back home in a simple conversation about wanting something that you didn’t necessarily need. During a write the song just kind of fell into place and became the most perfect storytelling song. “I just starting spitting out stuff. A little more would be better of money in the bank […] We kinda wrote all the verses first and then the chorus,” he tells us, “About 4 hours into the write, it hit us about how good that timeline was.”

On the other hand, “Right Where I Be” showcases Green’s more urban influences, such as rap star and producer Dr. Dre. “There’s a lot of stuff that I really, really like that is pretty ahead and that was one of them,” he shared, “I wrote that song and I was obsessed with it the day I wrote it and I knew it was really good.” The song was eventually transformed into his debut music video, which was exactly like Green has pictured.

Although each song showcases a different side of his artistry, it is clear that Green has found his sound and his style within his music. “Songwriting by far helped me more than anything. I wouldn’t have found myself as an artist and what my sound should be if I hadn’t written a 1000 songs before I found it.”

Fans can definitely expect more new music coming from Green before 2020 is up. We are sure whatever he released will be innovative, inspiring, and most importantly, true to him. Make sure to keep Drew Green on your radar because he is primed for much success!

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

“Little More Be Alright” and “Right Where I Be” are 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.