BBR Music Group’s artist on the rise, Lainey Wilson has released her new firecracker of a debut album Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’, today, February 19th. Take a look below as we dive deeper into the record.
The fiery, smokey, opening track “Neon Diamonds” is the perfect way to set the scene. It sounds like a dive bar meets a stadium show: it will be an absolute number once performed live. There are a bunch of songs on Sayin What I’m Thinkin’ that match this energy. Songs like “Small Town Girl” and “Straight Up Sideways” have that southern rock, outlaw feel to it. It’s reminiscent of some of Brothers Osborne’s more recent work, but at the same time, feels very distinct to Wilson.
The current single “Things A Man Oughta Know” leans on the softer side of the record. Simple kick drum, guitar, and mandolin flood the track beautifully, and you can hear traces of Dolly Parton and Alison Krauss in her voice. Lyrically, it’s actually a very empowering song; the hook is “I know a few things a man oughta know”. Throughout the record, Wilson is able to both enable and break gender and geographical stereotypes, which makes it an interesting dynamic.
Lainey Wilson’s debut album, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’, is available everywhere now, February 19th
Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ was produced by the iconic Jay Joyce, and it’s hard to think of a better fit for Wilson’s sound. Together, they found a middle ground in both the gritty and the sweet parts of life.
“Keeping Bars In Business” is a standout moment on the record. It is conversational and vulnerable and still has that clever chorus. Between Wilson’s vocals and Joyce’s dreamy guitars, you feel as if you’re in a trance. “My best friend’s ship is sinking, she thinks her man’s been cheating/And me I put my dog down yesterday”. The lyrics remain captivating as the song continues – it’s about the highs and lows of life and where you go to celebrate or mourn. “As the world keeps on spinning/we’re keeping bars in business”.
The last two songs are perhaps the best on the record, respectively, “Rollin’ Stone” and title-track “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’”. “Rolling Stone” has the rhythm of a train on a track, and it’s all about how Wilson doesn’t feel like she can be tied down. “Like a feather in the wind, I can be gone/No you don’t give a rock to a rolling stone”, she sings matter-of-factly on the chorus.
“Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’” is where Wilson’s vocals sound most pristine, and it’s the closest thing to a requited love song, whether it be to a significant other, friend, or herself. “With you, I’ve only ever been who I am,” she sings in a whisper before the chorus. “Even I can’t believe I’m sayin’ what I’m thinking”, she states.
As a whole, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ is one of the most authentic records released in a while. It doesn’t feel overdone or like a persona, it feels like a mission statement. It’s clear that this is only the beginning for Lainey Wilson, and with 12 songs as compelling as these, the sky is the limit for her.
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NYCS Picks: 1. Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’
2. Rolling Stone
3. Things A Man Oughta Know
4. Keeping Bars in Business
Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ Track Listing:
1. “Neon Diamonds”— (Lainey Wilson, McV, Matt Rogers)
2. “Sunday Best” —(Lainey Wilson, Brice Long, Shane Minor)
3. “Things A Man Oughta Know” —(Lainey Wilson, Jonathon Singleton, Jason Nix)
4. “Small Town, Girl” —(Lainey Wilson, Chris Yarber, Dallas Wilson)
5. “LA” —(Lainey Wilson, Hannah Dasher, Frank Romano)
6. “Dirty Looks” —(Lainey Wilson, Smith Ahnquist, Brent Anderson)
7. “Pipe” —(Lainey Wilson, Luke Dick, John Pierce)
8. “Keeping Bars In Business” —(Lainey Wilson, Jordan Schmidt, Matt Rogers)
9. “Straight Up Sideways” —(Lainey Wilson, Reid Isbell, Jason Nix, Dan Alley)
10. “WWDD” —(Lainey Wilson, Casey Beathard, Michael Heeney)
11. “Rolling Stone” —(Lainey Wilson, Tammi Kidd, Brent Anderson)
12. “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’” —(Lainey Wilson, Jay Knowles)
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Lainey Wilson releases.
Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/lainey-wilson-sayin-what-im-thinkin.jpg6301200Lucie Bernheimhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngLucie Bernheim2021-02-19 01:00:412021-02-22 13:00:12Lainey Wilson: ‘Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ – Album Review
During Country Radio Seminar which was held virtually this week, Maren Morris and Luke Combs, absolute superstars and trailblazers in the country music industry were interviewed by NPR’s Ann Powers about important topics facing our genre today including the lack of diversity and inclusion.
Ann Powers Interviews Maren Morris and Luke Combs during CRS 2021
Morris who has spoken candidly throughout this time of civil unrest through her platforms was a welcomed guest to the panel, bringing insight and fearless answers to each question. Combs, who has faced backlash throughout his career when pictures have surfaced standing in front of a confederate flag, was also exceptional at explaining how it’s inexcusable and how he has learned to understand the gravity of the association with something that can hurt so many.
Powers asked the hard questions, in an uncomfortable but welcoming conversation that was a beacon of hope for the attendees of CRS, hoping to be better, do better, and help the genre to continue to evolve to be more inclusive. Among many different topics, the panel discussed the history of country music, and Morris in particular brought up how we hold our heroes of the genre to a very high pedestal, however, historically, they aren’t the first ones who brought life to country music. “They were our pioneers, not THE pioneers”, she stated boldly.
When you close out artists or songwriters based on the color of their skin or their ethnicity, you could be closing the door on a song that could be a hit or a song that could save hundreds of lives, Morris stated in a sentiment about the lack of diversity in Music City.
Of course, the panel ended with the most recent incident that rocked the genre, when Morgan Wallen was caught on tape using a racial slur. Combs was happy to say “People can be changed. I mean, I think I’m a living, mouth-breathing example of it right here.” While Morris stated “I just think if you love something, you absolutely should call out the parts that are complicit and wrong, so we can move forward in a healthier way. And I think sitting here having this conversation with you, Luke, at CRS, the week of country music (pros gathering), is a huge step. We’ve all got healing to do. And accountability is the first step of that. I think that we’re on the road to a very hopeful place, but we have to be willing to have these conversations with each other and with our friends. I don’t care if you’re holding them accountable on Twitter or if you’re holding them accountable after a show when people are drunk on the bus — just call them out when you see it happening so we can move forward.”
Many attendees in the comments were exclaiming that this was the best panel in the 50+ years of Country Radio Seminar, something that will open the door for conversations and further discussion on such an important topic.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/maren-morris-luke-combs-crs.jpg6301200Christina Boschhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngChristina Bosch2021-02-17 22:50:342021-02-18 12:16:57Maren Morris and Luke Combs Discuss Diversity in Country Music During CRS
What makes a song a country song? Is it the instruments? The lyrics? The artist? The label? Those aspects play a role in a song being deemed “country,” but when asking fans what made them fall in love with the genre in the first place, many would credit the visuals and stories country artists depict in their music. However, songs like this are not unique to the genre; there are plenty of pop songs that do the same. Here are a few pop songs we think would sound great covered by a Nashville-based artist.
Pick: “Say You Won’t Let Go” – James Arthur Songwriters: Andrew Frampton, Daniel O’Donoghue, James Arthur, Mark Sheehan, Neil Ormandy, Stephen Kipner, Steve Soloman Who Should Cover It?: Mitchell Tenpenny
James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” is one of my all-time favorite pop songs, and as we think about which songs could have their own country versions, I can’t help but feel like this song could be at the top of that list. At its core, the song tells a story of falling in love from the very first meeting and taking the listener through all of those moments when you knew you loved that person and hoping and knowing those moments will last a lifetime. Like true country music, the song makes you feel like it’s actually happening to you and you can envision the story playing out perfectly.
“I knew I loved you then // But you’d never know // ‘Cause I played it cool when I was scared of letting go // I know I needed you // But I never showed // But I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old // Just say you won’t let go”
When I think about a country version of this song, I can easily picture Mitchell Tenpenny singing it. Adding his own unique flair and distinct vocals to the track, Tenpenny has such a way of telling a story and making the listener feel each and every lyric that this feels like a song that would really resonate with his fans. I’d love to see a cover of it from him!
Pick: “Let It Go” – James Bay
Songwriters: James Bay, Paul Barry
Who Should Cover It?: HARDY
Although I do love all genres of music, I have to admit that for the most part, my playlists are mostly country music. Once in a while, though I will hear a song on Top 40 or Pop and be captivated. That was the case with “Let It Go” by James Bay. His simple falsetto voice and storytelling are right on par for the country music world.
“I used to recognize myself / It’s funny how reflections change / When we’re becoming something else / I think it’s time to walk away / So come on, let it go / Just let it be / Why don’t you be you / And I’ll be me?”
I would love to hear someone like HARDY put their own spin on the song, maybe grunge it up a little bit and put his signature sound on it.
Pick: “Thinking of You” – Katy Perry
Songwriters: Katy Perry Who Should Cover It?: Kelsea Ballerini or Brett Eldredge
Katy Perry is an artist who defined so much of the music for my generation. Many of her biggest songs air on the side of pure, danceable pop, but she also has a vulnerable side. An early hit of hers, “Thinking Of You” is one of my favorites from the last couple of decades. It easily could be a country song based on its melodic and lyrical composition. It’s vivid with imagery and metaphors, with lyrics like, “You’re like an Indian summer in the middle of winter/Like a hard candy with a surprise center/How do I get better once I’ve had the best/You said there’s tons of fish in the water, so the waters I will test”.
Perry’s ability to tell an intimate and epically heartbreaking story is so country. So many of the best country songs are tragic and like journal entries. If you add some more harmony, more guitar, and maybe some banjo or mandolin, it could be a stunning country hit.
As far as who I would love to cover the song, if it were a female, Kelsea Ballerini would 100% nail it. She has the raw emotion and vocal empathy to do an amazing rendition. If a guy were to sing it, Brett Eldredge would also do an incredible job. He has so much vulnerability and passion in his voice that he would without a doubt make it his own.
Pick: “Lucky” – Jason Mraz feat. Colbie Caillat Songwriters: Colbie Caillat, Jason Mraz, Timothy Fagan Who Should Cover It?: Kenny Chesney & Tenille Townes
Virginia-native, Jason Mraz has always been a great storyteller and his musical-style is soft and acoustic, making him a great fit in Nashville! Mraz been making hits since 2002, my favorite of which being his Grammy-winning collaboration with Colbie Caillat, “Lucky.” Its chill, beachy vibe along with its sweet lyrics make it a great song about being in love with your best friend.
I think it makes perfect sense to have Kenny Chesney sing the male part. His subtle voice will fit perfectly into the simple, island melody. For the female part, I want to hear Tenille Townes sing it. She is an up-and-coming artist with a beautiful, unique voice that would compliment Chesney well. All it needs is some banjo backed by a steel guitar to make it a wonderful country cut.
Pick: “Since U Been Gone”
Songwriters: Lukasz Gottwald, Martin Sandberg
Who Should Cover It?: Kelsea Ballerini or Lauren Alaina
If there’s one thing country music does well, it’s break-up songs. “Since U Been Gone” is probably one of the most iconic breakup songs of our generation but it’s not a country song. You won’t hear it on country radio or any country playlist. It’s considered “pop” but anyone who listens to this song could easily close their eyes and hear it turned into a killer country song.
“But since you been gone // I can breathe for the first time// I’m so moving on, yeah, yeah // Thanks to you //Now I get what I want //Since you been gone”
There aren’t many artists that can cross genres, but Kelly Clarkson is one of them. Her powerhouse vocals, bubbly personality, and southern twang make her the perfect fit for a country artist. I’d love to see Kelsea Ballerini or Lauren Alaina to cover this classic, both have already written their fair share of break-up songs and have the sass and energy to do the song justice. As for Clarkson, I’m sure I’m not the only one who hopes and prays the Texas native will put out an epic country album sometime in her career.
Pick: “Best Part of Me” – Ed Sheeran feat. Yebba Songwriters: Abbey Smith, Benjamin Levin, Ed Sheeran Who Should Cover It?: Chris Stapleton & wife, Morgane Stapleton
From the 2019 No. 6 Collaborations Project, Ed Sheeran’s “Best Part of Me” with American singer-songwriter YEBBA eloquently suits the vocal ability and artistry present. The lyrics and honest storyline is enough to give listeners heart smiles and fight tears welling up in the eyes. Production-wise, the delicate finger-picking and soft melody only emphasize the significance of the subject material – undeserving love.
Similar to Ed Sheeran, Chris Stapleton stands out from the crowd with his unfiltered, sentimental tracks where lyrics hold the listeners’ ear from beginning to end. Both are talented entertainers and storytellers as well as seasoned, guitar-amplified musicians.
The “Starting Over” Kentucky native force-field who has found himself in the most acknowledged and prestigious class of artists after a few short years, covers a broad range of music, promoting headbangers and the most intensely passionate air-guitar mock-ups around town. Though, despite Stapleton’s tendency to hit the electric, he’s likely to execute a stripped-down and intimate performance as well with his wife, Morgane Stapleton by his side.
A reimagined duet of Sheeran’s “Best Part of Me” with vocal contribution from both Stapleton’s would only add fire to the flame of a well-executed, venerable production. While, at the same time, allowing Stapleton to incorporate his well-known, powerful rasp and unspeakable range to the mix may grant the song a life of its own – separate from itself, from where it’s been.
Pick: “Lose Somebody” – Kygo and One Republic Songwriters: Philip Plested, Alex Dilicata, Alysa Vanderheym, Jake Torrey, Kyrre Gorvell-Dahll, Morten Ristorp, Ryan Tedder Who Should Cover It?: Brett Young
This song has been on my go-to/everyday playlist this past year. It’s a heartbreak song but also one I find myself listening to on my runs. I find it to be very similar to the way Brett Young can deliver a catchy upbeat heartbreak song like “Left Side of Leavin’ ” or “Memory Won’t Let Me”. When I think of my favorite country voices, Brett Young immediately comes to mind. I love how he vocally delivers each song and lyrically, this is exactly the kind of song he would sing. He has a way of telling a story that makes you pay attention to every word. I’d most look forward to him hitting “until it’s gone” just before the chorus of “Lose Somebody”.
“You let go / And now i’m holding on / I guess you don’t know what you got / Until it’s gone / Sometimes you gotta lose somebody / Just to find out, you really love someone / Oh-Oh / And I do and I do and I do, yeah / Sometimes you gotta lose somebody ”
Pick: “Before You Go” – Lewis Capaldi
Songwriters: Ben Kohn, Pete Kelleher, Phil Plested, Tom Barnes, Lewis Capaldi
Who Should Cover It?: Brett Eldredge
Memorable melodies and lyrics that tell a story are the marks of a great country song, and Lewis Capaldi’s “Before You Go” would sound amazing stripped down and covered with a twang. The track is full of imagery (heartbreak described as “troubled water running cold” under the surface) and unlike most songs, there are question marks throughout the lyrics, allowing the listener to ask ‘what if?’ right along with the character. I would love to hear Brett Eldredge cover this song because his tone and heart would be a perfect fit for the powerful ballad.
Pick: “drivers license” – Olivia Rodrigo Songwriters: Daniel Nigro, Olivia Rodrigo Who Should Cover It?: Devin Dawson
My favorite thing about country music is the story-telling aspect. Truthfully, I believe that any song that has that “it factor” can be made into a killer country song. Olivia Rodrigo’s hit “drivers license” is one of the newest songs out there that I have fallen in love with. The entire song is a heartbreaking story about lost love, so I can really see the lyrics with a country melody.
“And I know we weren’t perfect, but I’ve never felt this way for no one / And I just can’t imagine how you could be so okay now that I’m gone / Guess you didn’t mean what you wrote in that song about me / ‘Cause you said forever, now I drive alone past your street”
After learning about it on Devin Dawson’s livestream, I immediately thought about how cool it would be to see his version of the song, potentially from the male perspective. Dawson also shared on Instagram that he really liked this song, so maybe it’ll actually happen! The moodiness and the overall vibe of the song fits in so well with Dawson’s catalog of incredible original songs.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/country-songs-pop.jpg6301200Dylan Bestlerhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngDylan Bestler2021-02-17 22:39:302021-02-18 12:38:08Pops Songs That Would Make Great Country Songs
Kelsea Ballerini scores another number one song with “hole in the bottle”, overtaking Luke Comb’s “Better Together.”
It is extra special when a female country artist’s song lands at the top of the charts because unfortunately, it does not happen as often as we would like. This week, Kelsea Ballerini’s song “hole in the bottle” made its debut in the top spot, breaking Luke Combs’ three-week streak and claiming Ballerini’s 6th number one song.
Since she came on the country music scene, Ballerini has gotten a lot of love by radio, scoring number one’s with her first three singles, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” “Dibs,” and “Peter Pan.” As of late, it has been a little harder for the talented singer-songwriter to get the love she deserves, as it often is for female country artists on the charts. It is about time that one of the amazing songs from her latest album kelsea, scores the top spot!
“There’s a hole in the bottle / Leakin’ all this wine / It’s already empty and it ain’t even suppertime / Honey, no, I don’t miss him / In fact, it slipped my mind / There’s a hole in the bottle of wine”
Ballerini continues to be a pioneer for women in country music. Fellow artists, Gabby Barrett and Tenille Arts, round out the top fifteen on the charts this week, and we’d love to see them make it into the top ten too with their respective songs.
Kelsea Ballerini Scores Number One Song With “hole in the bottle”
Until then, congrats to Ballerini and her team for an incredible feat!
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kelsea Ballerini releases.
“Hole In The Bottle” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/hole-in-the-bottle-number-one.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2021-02-16 14:13:142021-02-17 15:30:14Kelsea Ballerini Scores Another Number One Song With “hole in the bottle”
Perfect timing for Valentine’s Day Weekend, Drew Baldridge released his song “That’s You”. Available everywhere where you buy and stream music. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new track.
Written by Baldridge and Trannie Anderson, “That’s You” is a sweet love song showing appreciation to the singer-songwriter’s fiancé Katie. While quarantine has brought a lot of uncertainty, it also taught us some valuable lessons including showing us the importance of having that support system in your life, whether that’s a significant other, family, or friends. It shares a message of no matter what you’re going through, there’s always going to be that one person you can count on and can’t afford to lose.
In a recent press release, Baldridge shared how the song came to life. “I had the melody for that chorus in my head for a long time and just kept singing ‘That’s You’ at the end of it,” said Baldridge. “I didn’t know what it meant until I got with Trannie and she brought the idea to life! Then we started writing the lyrics inspired by my fiancée. I was so excited about the song, I put it on TikTok before we even made it to the studio to record it.”
Drew Baldridge’s new song “That’s You” is available everywhere now, February 12th
Baldridge first shared the track with fans on social media. With 2 million views on TikTok and another 2 million views on Instagram, the Illinois native knew the song had to be recorded ASAP.
“Strongest weakness\My swear I’m bulletproof\ My live on the edge\My rock I’m clinging to\My sweetest sin, my do me in, my heaven sent, Hail Mary prayer\My one I’d rather be down deep six feet than have to lose\That’s you.”
Baldridge is no stranger to his songs going viral. Last year, his song “Senior Year” landed on the Billboard and Mediabase Country Charts thanks to the fans’ engagement on social media and the connection it had with graduating seniors. He even had the opportunity to play at a few socially distant Graduations.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Drew Baldridge releases.
“That’s You” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/drew-baldridge-thats-you.jpg6301200Rebekah Milstedhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngRebekah Milsted2021-02-16 13:46:352021-02-17 14:30:05Drew Baldridge Releases The Perfect Love Song, “That’s You”
Tiera’s new song featuring Breland, “Miles” is available now, February 12th, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new track.
Songs & Daughters flagship songwriter Tiera has joined forces with up-and-coming singer-songwriter Breland in their brand new song “Miles.” Back in October, the songstress released a beautiful and sentimental song called “Found It In You” that we instantly fell in love with. “Miles” is just another heartfelt tune, proving that she is slated for a promising career in her genre of choice, R&B/Country Music.
The female powerhouse’s vocals soar on this inviting and captivating tune. “Miles” is a fun and nostalgic love song with imagery for days. After just one listen, you can truly picture Tiera and her lover on a road trip as they blast all their favorite songs and continue to fall in love with one another.
“You’re like a slow lane Sunday / You’re good for my soul / You’re taking me places / I never thought I could go / You’re my dashboard religion / Got my love on cruise control / Take me in any direction and it still feels like home”
About a minute and a half into the song, Breland brings his unique talent to the track. His sing/talk voice adds a much-needed layer and swagger to the already enticing song. Together, the two play off each other’s vocals and represent the couple the song is all about.
Tiera’s new song “Miles” featuring Breland is available everywhere now, February 12th
With just a few releases under her belt, Tiera is surely one to look out for. Her debut EP is slated to be released in just one month on March 12th. It is only a matter of time until all of country music falls in love with her. As for Breland, his single “My Truck” is already certified platinum! Country music better make room for these two rising talents!
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tiera and Breland releases.
“Miles” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/miles-tiera-breland.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2021-02-14 14:46:432021-02-17 14:55:41Tiera and Breland Release A Beautiful Song Titled “Miles”
Tyler Rich’s brand new song, “Better Than You’re Used To” is available now, February 12th, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the viral track.
Since day one, California native and country artist, Tyler Rich has been one of our all-time favorites. He consistently puts out music that fans flock to, and his talent is unlike the rest. After a sneak peek of his newest song went viral on TikTok, Rich surprised fans with fast-forwarding the recording process, ultimately releasing his brand new song, “Better Than You’re Used To” today.
Last month, Rich posted a clip of himself and his wife, Sabina, jamming to the demo of the new song. The track quickly gained popularity, now sitting with over 3 million views. The song’s release comes at the perfect time, as we all gear up for Valentine’s Day. The enticing love song is sure going to gain even more attention from country music lovers everywhere.
“He don’t deserve you // He says I love you // But I don’t believe it, no way // He never shows it // He don’t send you roses // Not even on Valentine’s Day // He don’t take you dancing // He don’t understand what he’s got, but baby I do // You need someone to love, love, love you // Better than you’re used to”
Tyler Rich’s new song “Better Than You’re Used To” is available everywhere now, February 12th
What makes this song even more special is that Rich truly walks the walk. The insight he gives via social media into his relationship with his beautiful and talented partner proves that he is a guy that believes in true love, adoring your partner, and of course, romantic gestures. Whether you’re in a relationship or single, “Better Than You’re Used To” is going to up your standards, and definitely get stuck in your head in the best way possible.
“Better Than You’re Used To” impacts country radio on May 17th, be sure to request to new song from your local radio stations.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tyler Rich releases.
“Better Than You’re Used To” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/tyler-rich-better-than-youre-used-to.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2021-02-12 11:51:502021-05-06 18:10:41Tyler Rich Releases TikTok Favorite Song “Better Than You’re Used To”
Kip Moore adds four brand new songs in his Wild World Deluxe Album, available everywhere today. The singer-songwriter will also play a live show at The Ryman tonight to celebrate the release of the project.
Kip Moore’s ‘Wild World Deluxe Album’ is available everywhere now, February 12th
Kip Moore released his Wild World Deluxe Album today, February 12th, which includes four additional songs. The original album, Wild World, was released in May of 2020 and included songs like “She’s Mine”, which was the album’s first single, “Red White Blue American Dream”, and the title-track. The deluxe version of Wild World will include two pre-released songs, “Don’t Go Changing” and “How High”, both of which have incredible music videos, as well as two brand new songs, “Midnight Slow Dance” and “Man’s Gotta Do”.
To celebrate the release of the deluxe album, Moore will be playing “Wild World Deluxe: Live From The Ryman”; a socially-distanced show and global livestream event at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee at 8 PM CT (9 PM EST) on February 12th. One dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to ACM Lifting Lives. Get tickets here.
With the deluxe version of the album, Moore adds four new songs to the 13-track record. First of which is “Don’t Go Changing”. The track reminds listeners of the importance and need of a constant in an ever-changing and uncertain world. While listeners can gather this from the lyrics of the song, Moore gives the song a much deeper meaning in its music video seen above. Moore uses the song as a metaphor to highlight the suffering of the live music industry in the current pandemic. In the music video, Moore highlights several well-known music venues across Music City and sits down with Chris Cobb, the owner of a local venue and co-founder of Music Venue Alliance Nashville, an organization whose current focus is to help independent music venues that are working to survive through the pandemic. The hope is that the music video will encourage fans to donate and help support the venues that are home to the very shows that they are longing to return to. To learn more about Music Venue Alliance Nashville and donate, click here.
These days keep changin’ like the weather / Everybody’s light as a feather / I don’t see no signs of things gettin’ better / so, girl, just keep wearing leather / And don’t go changin’ on me, baby / ‘cause this world is turnin’ crazy / I’ll stay your boy, you stay my lady / And don’t go changin’ on me baby
In the next song, “Midnight Slow Dance”, Moore sings about two strangers who catch each other’s eyes from across the room. These two know they want the same thing and they don’t want to wait to see where things might go, but be together tonight. They don’t want to lead each other in circles and put off what they both want.
Well I’ve been watching you for hours / And you’ve been looking my way too / Well maybe I’ll just get your number / But what I’d really like to do / I wanna feel what’s in your heart / press against your lips / set this room on fire with a long wet kiss / take you in my arms / wrap you in romance / I want a midnight slow dance
The most recently released track, “How High” compares the affection that someone could have for another to the smoke that fills up a room, to a balloon that gets released in the sky, and to the stars in outer space. “How High” takes on a deeper and less obvious meaning through the euphoric story that is told through its music video.
The music video, seen above, develops the story of an elderly woman living life how she desires, without allowing age to become any kind of a factor. Reminiscing through photos of her younger self, this woman makes a decision to live life as carefree as she did back then. As she breaks every stereotype of how she should seemingly be living, she dances her way through the streets smoking and drinking, and not caring about how she looks or what others may be thinking of her. She teaches everyone she passes, despite their judgment, how to live a little bit more like her. When she reaches the end of her journey, the amazing moments from throughout her life flash in her mind and she is overwhelmed with a sense of happiness and relief knowing that she lived her life to the fullest. This story is a reminder about how short life really is, and how we need to enjoy every second that we have here.
How high, I get on you / It’s your eyes, it’s your touch / It’s tonight, it’s your love / It’s a ride and it’s a rush / It always feels just like a drug / Take me there, take me on / Let down your hair, anything you want / yeah, I need ya’ like the air / Girl, I swear you keep me stoned
The deluxe album rounds out at 17 total tracks with “Man’s Gotta Do”. This is the story of a man that wants more for his own kid than what he had growing up. When he was just a boy, his father left him and his mom, and he was forced to grow up quickly and be the man he needed to be for his family. When he’s faced with the similar situation of being a dad earlier than he planned, and having to grow up too quick for the second time in his life, he chooses to be the man that his father wasn’t.
Sometimes right, it don’t go as you planned / No matter how hard you try, it’s out of your hands / And sometimes life shows up, long before you want it to / And sometimes a boy’s gotta do what a mans gotta do
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kip Moore releases.
Wild World Deluxe 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/wild-world-deluxe-kip-moore.jpg6301200Caleigh DeCapriohttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngCaleigh DeCaprio2021-02-12 11:30:112021-02-26 01:14:44Kip Moore: ‘Wild World Deluxe’ – Album Review
Trailblazing country duo, Florida Georgia Line released their fifth album, Life Rolls On today, February 12th. The record contains 16 tracks, six of which were a part of the 6-Pack EP, as well as the number-one hit, “I Love My Country” and their most recent top-15 single “Long Live.”
On January 1st, Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley shocked the country world when they announced the two of them will be focusing more on their solo careers going forward after the release of Life Rolls On. Although they confirmed it was not “a breakup,” fans are speculating when or if there will be new Florida Georgia Line music in the future, which makes this record that much more special.
“We’ve been on a 10-year journey together and we wouldn’t change it for the world,” Hubbard said in the announcement video. “We’re going to continue to make music as much we can—as a matter of fact, we’re probably going to be making even more music now. We created this freedom around ourselves where we can do whatever we want to do, creatively and musically…It’s a beautiful place to venture out and have a voice of our own and have individuality.”
Florida Georgia Line’s new album ‘Life Rolls On’ is available everywhere now, February 12th
Fittingly so, this album’s main theme is nostalgia. Florida Georgia Line incorporates many songs that reflect on love and southern life, specifically the first two, “Long Live” and “Life Looks Good.” The latter is a feel-good, sing-along tune. Kelley backs Hubbard as he sings about laying on a blanket and looking at the stars with his better half. “Good To Me” is another track in which the two show their gratitude. Written by Hubbard, Kelley, Canaan Smith, and producer Corey Crowder, they admit they have made their fair share of mistakes, but God has always had their backs. Faith has been the focus of many Florida Georgia Line cuts recently, including “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” with Chase Rice and their collaboration project with Christian singer, Chris Tomlin.
Hubbard and Kelley make the love they have for their wives very apparent on this record, both emotionally and physically. The vulnerable “Second Guessing” from NBC’s Songland was featured on this album — the singer acknowledges his indecisiveness until he meets the woman who makes it all clear. In “Always Gonna Love You,” they compare the love they get from their wives to a cold beer after work and your team scoring a touchdown, assuring it will always be this way and their love is forever. “Hard To Get To Heaven,” “Eyes Closed,” and “Long Time Coming” are more steamy. All three songs describe the physical side of love, the latter being the most personal. In “Long Time Coming,” the singer explains that between the kids and his busy work schedule, they have not made enough time for themselves, and he can’t wait to share a glass of wine and get into bed with the love of his life.
The duo has always experimented with hip-hop beats, and this record is no different. In “Countryside,” “Ain’t Worried Bout It,” and “New Truck,” Hubbard and Kelley blend banjos and steel guitars with clap-tracks to create sounds that fans of all genres can enjoy.
The generally lighthearted record takes a turn with the final two songs, “U.S. Stronger” and “Life Rolls On.” The former was included on the 6-Pack EP and was inspired by COVID-19. Written by just Hubbard and Kelley, the two encourage listeners to help each other out during these trying times. The only way to beat this virus is to figuratively come together; perseverance is in the blood of all Americans. The latter reminds us that in good times or bad, God has a plan for us, and we are always right where we belong.
The decision to pursue solo projects as well as Florida Georiga Line may be an underlying message throughout this album. Several songs, such as “Always Gonna Love You” and the title track, can relate to their relationship. While we look forward to new music from Hubbard and Kelley individually, we are celebrating all the great projects they have created and the revolutionary impact they have had in country life and country music.
NYCS Picks:
“Life Looks Good”
“Good To Me”
“New Truck”
“Second Guessing”
“Ain’t Worried Bout It”
Florida Georgia Line’s LIFE ROLLS ON Track Listing:
“Long Live” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, David Garcia, Josh Miller
“Life Looks Good” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Jaren Johnston
“Countryside” – Blake Redferrin, Jake Rose, Michael Whitworth
“Always Gonna Love You” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Ross Copperman, Corey Crowder, Michael Hardy
“I Love My Country” – Kane Brown, Corey Crowder, Chase McGill, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, Will Weatherly
“Hard To Get To Heaven” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Josh Thompson
“Long Time Comin’” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Jordan Schmidt, Canaan Smith
“Interlude” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder
“Ain’t Worried Bout It (Album Version)” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Dallas Davidson, Ben Hayslip
“Beer:30” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Canaan Smith, Ernest Keith Smith
“New Truck” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Jeff Gitelman, Raysean Hairston, Blake Redferrin, Priscilla Renea
“Eyes Closed” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Ross Copperman, Corey Crowder, Michael Hardy
“Second Guessing (From Songland)” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Ester Dean, Andrew DeRoberts, Shane McAnally, Griffen Palmer, Ben Simonetti, Ryan Tedder, Geoff Warburton
“Good To Me” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder, Canaan Smith
“U.S. Stronger” – Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley
“Life Rolls On” – Ben Burgess, Alysa Vanderheym, Emily Weisband
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Florida Georgia Line releases.
Life Rolls On 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.
For Ryan Hurd’s newest release “Chasing After You”, he is joined by his wife Maren Morris, marking the couple’s first-ever duet together, with fingers crossed that it is not the last. The piece was written by Brinley Addington and Jerry Flowers, and is available everywhere today, February 12th. The two also teased a music video on their socials, which is set to release today, 2/12 at 12PM ET.
Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris are Nashville’s modern fairytale. From their ‘meet-cute’ as young songwriters to their musical successes both separately and together, to tying the knot and becoming new parents to a beautiful baby boy, their exciting love story continues to keep us on our toes, never failing to capture the attention of their fans. If you want a better idea of what exactly we’re talking about, might we suggest Morris’s music video for “The Bones” or Hurd’s music video for “To A T” or “Diamonds or Twine”, a song Hurd wrote for Morris as a wedding gift, as the perfect visual aids. The two got married on March 24th, 2018, and two years later, just one day shy of their second wedding anniversary, they welcomed their son, Hayes Andrew to the world.
From songwriters to headliners, from friends to life partners, the two have literally been writing together since the day they met. They had been paired up in a writing session back in 2013, the very one where they wrote “Last Turn Home”… later picked up and recorded by Tim McGraw. Since then, they have written for each other and sang vocals on each other’s records on numerous occasions. Now, they have finally given fans what they have been begging for, and released their first duet together, “Chasing After You”, available today, February 12th. We hope this is the first of many collaborations from this couple seeing that no two voices have ever fit together more perfectly.
On the experience of finally being able to record a formal duet together, Hurd says, “Maren and I met writing songs and we’ve sung on each other’s records and written together, but this is the first time we’ve gotten to do an actual duet together. It feels like the timing is really perfect and it’s a full-circle moment to make music together in this way”.
With an already successful career as a songwriter under his belt, Hurd jump-started his career as a recording artist when he released his debut single “Love in a Bar”, the story of how he and Morris went from two friends who wrote songs together, to people very much in love. “Love in a Bar” was included on Hurd’s self-titled, four-track debut EP (2017). In July of 2019, Hurd released another four-track EP titled Panorama which included songs such as “Good as You Think I Am”, which he and Morris co-wrote together, and “I’ll be the Moon”, which Hurd co-wrote and Dierks Bently then recorded with Morris. That same year, Hurd released his hit single “To A T ”, which Morris sang vocals on, as well as “Her Name Was Summer”. “To A T” was included on his 5-track and second EP of 2019Platonic, released in September of 2019. Most recently, in April of 2020, Hurd released his 7-track EP EOM, named after the title-track “Every Other Memory”, another song you can hear Morris harmonizing on. The EOM EP provided Hurd with the opportunity to put his own style on songs he had co-written for other artists, including Morgan Wallen’s “Heartless”, Luke Bryan’s “Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset”, Rascal Flatts’s “Payback”, and Lady A’s “What If I Never Get Over you”. Hurd also co-wrote hit songs “Lonely Tonight” (Blake Shelton and Ashley Monroe) and “You Look Good” (Lady A).
As for Morris, she stayed quite busy throughout 2020. After becoming a mom in March, she released two new songs, “Just For Now” and “Takes Two”, in June, followed by“Better Than We Found It”, a pre-election song with a powerful message about our nation’s socio-political climate and our duty to leave this world better than we found it. Most recently, Morris released her current single with JP Saxe, a song written by two songwriters, for their fellow songwriting significant others called “Line By Line”. In 2019, Morris released her sophomore album, GIRL, and started the all-female group, The Highwomen, who released their self-titled debut album together.
After successfully elevating their individual careers over the last few years, the couple finally merged their talent creating a highly anticipated collaboration that does not disappoint. Take a look below as we unpack the lyrics that compose “Chasing After You”.
Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris’ new song “Chasing After You” is available everywhere now, February 12th
“Chasing After You” is a story about two people who continuously give in to temptation when it comes to each other. They revolve within the same cycle over and over, trying to break things off, but somehow always managing to make their way back to one another. Neither is strong enough to say no, even when they believe that’s what they want. Each time they forget where this road leads and they keep coming back, as the other one keeps welcoming them.
You come over when your wine’s all gone / Always catch me when I’m not that strong / Then you wind up staying all night long / Ain’t nothin’ new / Then I wake up with you on my chest / You got a way of making me forget / Girl, with you the answers always yes / Every time you call
Here, they seem to reach a point where they’ve accepted just how unbreakable this cycle truly is. They’re always going to love chasing after one another.
But I know, yeah I know it’s a matter of time / Til you walk, til you walk back out of my life / Leave me standing here lonely feeling like a fool / Every time, every time you say we’re done / You come back to the love you were running from / Don’t know why, don’t know why I let you, but I do / Guess I love chasing after you
Before the pandemic hit, Hurd was headlining The Platonic Tour with Niko Moon which made a two-night run in early March in NYC. Although they didn’t know it at the time, this would end up being some of the final shows the pandemic would allow for the tour. As for Morris, she was set to play The RSVP Tour in 2020, however she has since had to cancel this entirely, patiently awaiting a time when she can safely take the stage once again.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris releases.
“Chasing After You” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
