Logan Mize: Still That Kid – Album Review

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Showing off his love for his small-town life, Still That Kid is relatable, nostalgic, and filled with the heart-warming lyrics and vocals that we love from Logan Mize.

Logan Mize’s New Album “Still That Kid” is out now, January 27th

Logan Mize’s New Album “Still That Kid” is out now, January 27th

Logan Mize’s new album, Still That Kid, is out today, January 27th. It is the nostalgic story of his life growing up in small-town USA. From the album title and throughout each track he digs down to his roots and proves that he’s Still That Kid from Clearwater, Kansas. He looks back on Friday night lights, nights at the local bar, young love, and shares how that past continues to affect his life. Mize’s previous album, Come Back Road (2017) debuted Top 20 on the Billboard Country Album Sales Chart and number 2 on the iTunes Country chart. It features his hit singles “Ain’t Always Pretty” and “Better Off Gone”.

To celebrate Still That Kid, Mize will perform two livestream shows on Thursday, February 4th, live from the McPherson Opera House in his home state. The first will be at 1:30 PM CT (2:30 PM ET) and the second at 7:30 PM CT (8:30 PM ET). Each will be 45-minute acoustic performances of songs off the new album as well as fan-favorites. Doing his part to support local businesses near his hometown, Mize will be donating a portion of the livestream ticket proceeds to the McPherson Opera House. The album release livestream offers various ticket packages, giving fans the option to add an after-party pass that will include an exclusive encore performance from Mize and his wife/fellow artist, Jill Martin. For tickets and more information click here.

Still That Kid, the 13-track album includes writers Rhett Akins, Nicolle Galyon, Ashley Gorley, and Chris Destefano. Mize had pre-released several songs off the record including two versions of “I Ain’t Gotta Grow Up”, his own, and a new version with Willie Jones. Previously released songs also include “Who Didn’t”, two versions of his popular song “Grew Apart”, one with Donovan Woods, and one with Alexandra Kay, “Hometown”, and Mize’s cover of “Something Just Like This”. Fans will get to hear brand new songs like “American Livin’”, “Gone Goes On and On”, “Practice Swing”, “Get em Together”, “Prettiest Girl in the World” and “Slow”.

Here are some of our top picks from the collection...

American Livin’ (Logan Mize, Blake Chaffin)

There’s no better song to open up this album. It’s the story of a one-red light town that you’re meant to move out of, but you find yourself missing once you’re gone. There’s a lot you miss, but it’s the little things like leaving the doors unlocked, knowing your neighbors, and meaning “see ya later”. It’s the kind of song that puts you right back in a high school Friday night.

“When life was a Mellencamp song / it was faded blue jeans, on the hood of a hand-me-down Chevy / With all your first best friends / and time says you can’t go back, oh but just like that / you know what it is you’ve been missing / Friday night small town, American Livin”

It may also be one of the few songs of its kind that ends on the happy note of returning to your hometown and getting back those days you’ve been missing. “One day there’s a for sale sign on the edge of town and your roots seem to find their way back in the ground…” A friendly reminder that perhaps those days aren’t only in the past.

Grew Apart feat. Donovan Woods (Donovan Woods, Travis Wood, Logan Wall) & Grew Apart feat. Alexandra Kay (Donovan Woods, Travis Wood, Logan Wall)

After releasing this song originally as a solo single, Mize later released two different versions of the song, one with its lead-writer Donovan Woods, and the other with Alexandra Kay. The two songs together give different perspectives of the same story, without changing a word of it.

The version with Woods gives a very similar perspective as the original release, in that it is from the guy’s perspective- it’s the same side of the break-up. They have their own opinions about why the relationship ended but they’re not ready to come to terms with them just yet, so they don’t give the whole truth when people ask, they just tell the parts they want to believe themselves.

“ It’s for the best, it’s over now / wasn’t anyone’s fault it didn’t workout / she’s a good girl, just wasn’t the one / we wanted different things, we had a good run / she’s better off, and so am I / It is what it is, but it’s all a lie / I don’t tell em’ how you broke my heart, I just tell em that we grew apart ”

However, in Alexandra Kay’s version, we get a sense of the other side too. There is one thing that the two can both agree on- and it’s that the other one is more to blame. They show that the two people in a relationship can be just as upset about a break-up as the other, but will never admit it or let the other one know.

“I could tell ‘em how you came in late / I can tell ‘em how you looked me in the eye and told that lie with a straight face / I don’t know why I don’t, maybe I hope it ain’t really over / but what’s that say about me / am I that weak”

Gone Goes On and On (Josh Kear, Robert Counts, Ed Hill, Mark Irwin)

This song is about where your feelings about a break-up or losing someone can take you after a few too many drinks. Through frustration, sadness, regret, and loss, it will take you to every level of what you’re feeling when you know that person is gone for good.

“Goodbye will hit you at the speed of a one last kiss / love will walk out while you’re still holding your breath / sometimes forever is over as fast as a song / but gone goes on and on and on and on / tail lights will fade out in the blink of a single tear / it only takes a couple seconds for a comeback prayer / losing everything don’t take long / but gone goes on and on and on”

Hometown (Tony Lane, Stephen Wilson, Marv Green)

This song is about Mize’s struggle between chasing his dream of being a singer/songwriter in Nashville and missing his life and family back home in Kansas. After being gone for so long, he had a life-altering experience that made him realize that he was wasting time he’ll never get back with his family. This struggle of wanting to chase your lifelong dreams and not wanting to miss out on the rest of your life, and wishing you could do both these things at once, is all too common and isn’t an easy choice to make no matter the circumstances. The track captures that idea perfectly and shows that choosing your family and home can be greater than even the biggest of dreams.

“ I wanna be home / in my own hometown / yeah back where my roots ran wild in my barefoot stomping ground / yeah I wanna wake up to some of that cookin’ / know my way around without lookin’ / home, in my own hometown”

Prettiest Girl in the World (Logan Mize, Blake Chaffin)

Mize originally wrote this song for his wife, but after his daughter was born, he says it took on a whole new meaning. For the last five years, it has been “Violet’s Song” and now he is finally sharing it with the rest of us. Acting almost as a sequel to “Ain’t Always Pretty”, this song is the feel-good love song we needed.

“It’s hard to believe that the prettiest girl in the world needs to hear / somebody loves her as much at her worst as I do at her best / my wildest dreams I’d never guessed I’d be the one holding the prettiest girl in the world”

 

Slow (Dallas Davidson, Chris DeStefano, Houston Phillips)

Given the many songs Mize has given us about home, and specifically about the small-town USA, it is only right that he would give us a song about taking life slow and soaking up all that it has to offer. It’s an uplifting reminder we all need every now and then when we are always worrying about tomorrow, what’s next, and staying busy.

 “ Fall in love, soak it in / do your best, be a friend / son you don’t need a reason to bring home a dozen roses / and have a drink, take a shot / save a little, spend a lot / enjoy the ride, every high every low when you drive down one of life’s road / take it slow ”

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Logan Mize announcements and releases.

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

Still That Kid 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.

Exclusive: Chris Bandi Chats About “Would Have Loved Her” & Working with Nelly

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In our latest exclusive interview with one of our 2020 Artists to Watch, Chris Bandi, he chats about releasing an EP in the middle of a pandemic, how his new single “Would Have Loved Her” has touched fans across the country, and working with fellow St. Louis native, Nelly. Read the full interview below.

March 11th, 2020 was the last time we saw Chris Bandi, which also happened to be the very last show we attended before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After our Swag Session in New York City, Bandi played a show with Ray Fulcher and Matt Stell on the Everywhere But On Tour at Gramercy Theatre. Fans who were lucky enough to be in attendance that night got to hear some brand new music from the rising artist before anyone else.

Just moments after stepping off stage, Bandi, his band, and the rest of the venue were basically coming to the realization that things would be quite different at least for the foreseeable future as restrictions were put in place and all events going forward were canceled. Like so many other artists, he took to social media to continue to connect with fans and get his music out there. Performing on Facebook and Instagram Lives, he previewed his new music and watched as it began to strike a chord with fans.

“Music is one of those things where you can put your favorite album on and for 45 minutes you don’t have to think about anything other than that music,” he tells us in our recent interview. “You don’t have to worry about the world going on around you, the lack of the world going on around you, it was such a great escape for people.” His EP was originally slated for release in the summer of 2020, but since it was already written and recorded before the pandemic, Bandi, his label, and management team decided to bump up the release to May. Read our full review of his self titled debut here.

With the world on pause, fans were able to really connect differently and listen more intently to the music that was being released, something that was particularly true about Bandi’s next radio single, “Would Have Loved Her”. He tells us that the process of writing this song was important to him, and he knew it needed time and delicate songwriting to convey the emotions he felt. He sat down with Zach Kale one day in a write and brought the title to him, explaining that his grandfather had passed away just six months before he met his girlfriend. Kale shared that his father had passed away before he had met his wife and the connection to the story was solidified. “He and I just started sharing stories about his dad, my grandpa, my girlfriend, and his wife, and it was therapeutic. To air it out and talk about it, have someone who understands,” he tells us.

He sent the demo to his team and they immediately knew it had to be included on his project. Since its release, “Would Have Loved Her” has resonated with so many fans who have lost loved ones and Bandi explains how that has made the song mean that much more. “To see and read the stories, people sharing pictures of that person that meant so much to them, telling us their story. It’s been amazing and as a songwriter, it’s really all you can ask for, people are hearing your song and they are touched by it. “

One thing we were excited to discuss was the fact that Bandi recently had the opportunity to write with hip-hop superstar and country crossover extraordinaire, Nelly. Nelly announced that he will be releasing a “country-influenced” project, Heartland this year and as a fellow St. Louis native, Bandi being able to work professionally with someone who has inspired him for so many years was a dream come true. “It was a full-circle moment for me. Growing up in St. Louis, he was our guy, we had Nelly. Everybody idolized him. People would joke when I was in college and told them I was from St. Louis, they would always ask “Do you know Nelly?” and it’s kind of crazy because now I Do!” he laughs.

The reception from his self-titled EP has been incredible and with “Would Have Loved Her” heading to country radio, Chris Bandi is looking ahead to a better 2021 where he can finally get back to playing shows and meeting fans. “I can not wait to play shows. That’s what I’ve been doing for the last 10 years of my life, playing shows and getting out and traveling to the shows, meeting people and last year was just ripped away from us.” We couldn’t agree more that it is something we all can’t wait to go back to normal and we are looking forward to watching his career blossom even more.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Chris Bandi announcements and releases.

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

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

Luke Combs’ “Better Together” Earns Him 10th Consecutive # 1

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Luke Combs’ continues his record-breaking streak as “Better Together” earns him his 10th consecutive #1 as the song hits the top spot on the country charts this week.

There is no one like Luke Combs in the country music industry. Since he burst onto the scene in 2016, fans have flocked to him and his music rather instantaneously. Everything Combs touches turns platinum, and his latest single “Better Together” off his sophomore record What You See Is What You Get is no exception, making its debut at the top of the country music charts.

Co-written by Combs with Dan Isbell, and Randy Montana, “Better Together” is a monumental, yet simple love song that was truly made for Combs’ voice. Furthermore, the song represents an unprecedented feat. as the superstar is the first country artist in history to score the top spot on the charts with every single that he has released to country radio since his debut.

“Better Together” joins the collection of songs like “When It Rains It Pours,” “She Got the Best of Me,” and “Beer Never Broke My Heart.” It follows “Lovin’ on You,” which went number one last year.

Luke Combs earns 10th consecutive #1 with "Better Together"

Luke Combs earns 10th consecutive #1 with “Better Together” // Photo Credit: Zack Massey

“Some things just go better together and probably always will / Like a cup of coffee and a sunrise, Sunday drives and time to kill / What’s the point of this ol’ guitar if it ain’t got no strings / Or pourin’ your heart into a song that you ain’t gonna sing”

There is truly no stopping the hitmaker! Congratulations to Luke and his team!

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Luke Combs announcements and releases.

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

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

Lainey Wilson Releases Fiery “Neon Diamonds”, Announces New Album

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BBR Music Group’s rising star Lainey Wilson has been making waves in country music for years, and today she has released fiery anthem “Neon Diamonds” and announced a new album ‘Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin”, due out February 19th.

“Neon Diamonds” opens with crashing cymbals and gritty guitar, instantly transporting you to a live show with a smokey stage where the bass is a little too loud. It’s clear that when we can attend concerts again, this song will crush and be a crowd-pleaser.

The lyrics are unapologetic and characteristically country. “My left hand ain’t interested in nothin’ but a drink in it,” Wilson sings on the opening line. The song is about a want for something casual, something that won’t last forever. Eventually, she wants to find her forever, but for now, she’s chasing the high that comes from “getting hitched on whiskey vows and exchangin’ drunk I dos/With neon diamonds and smoke rings”. It’s an incredibly clever hook that showcases the singer-songwriter’s vocal range and her classic, old soul.

Lainey Wilson’s New Album "Sayin' What I'm Thinkin'" is due out February 19th

Lainey Wilson’s New Album “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin'” is due out February 19th

“Neon Diamonds”, co-written by Wilson, Matthew McVaney, and Matt Rogers is the opener to her new record Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ which is slated for release on February 19th. It’s the perfect introduction to those who aren’t familiar with Wilson’s sound just yet, and she is able to meld the traditional sounds of country and rock in a way that sounds distinctive.

“I am proud of every piece of this record and all the people that have helped bring it to fruition,” Wilson said in a recent press release. “Finally being able to share this body of work is the most fulfilling and rewarding moment of my life thus far.”

Wilson has been grinding in Nashville for quite some time; she released her debut, independent album “Tougher” in 2016, and she followed it up with a self-distributed and self-titled EP in 2018. It’s so exciting that after all these years someone with as much polish and spirit is getting to share her music with a larger audience. With a new single to country radio that is equal parts gentle and strong, and a highly anticipated LP on the way, 2021 is looking bright for Lainey Wilson.

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 upcoming Lainey Wilson releases.

To keep up with Lainey Wilson, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Neon Diamonds” 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.

CMT Announces Next Women of Country Class of 2021

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CMT announces the Next Women of Country Class of 2021. The Next Women of Country aims to recognize and support country music’s newest female artists. These ten women are on the verge of breakout success. Take a look below as we introduce you to the class of 2021.

CMT Next Women of Country

CMT Next Women of Country

CMT revealed the group of women that will make up the Next Women of Country Class of 2021. The ten artists are Ashland Craft, Priscilla Block, Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, Hannah Dasher, MacKenzie Porter, Harper Grae, Tenille Arts, Sacha, and Chapel Hart.

This year’s class includes a much more diverse group of women, including three solo Black artists, Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, and Sacha. There’s also a family trio, Chapel Hart, consisting of cousins Danica Hart, Trea Swindle, and Devyn Hart.

Some noteworthy artists of CMT’s past classes include Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, and Ashley McBryde. The annual event started in 2013 as a way to shine a light on country music’s next-generation, specifically women when the genre was being dominated by male artists. The year-long campaign raises awareness for new female artists with support for their music and videos across CMT and CMT Music channels, CMT Hot 20 Countdown, CMT.com along with CMT’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages.

On Tuesday, January 26, past NWOC selections Caylee Hammack, Rissi Palmer, and Lauren Alaina will host a one-hour special. CMT Presents: New Women of Country Class of 2021 will air on CMT’s Facebook and YouTube channels and will feature full performances by the class of 2021.

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

You can hear the artists who make up CMT’s Next Women of Country everywhere you buy or stream music. 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.

Eric Church ‘Heart & Soul’ Release Dates + Track Lists

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Eric Church confirmed today, January 21st, he will be releasing three new albums in April 2021.

Eric Church set to release three albums, 'Heart', '&', 'Soul' this April 2021

Eric Church set to release three albums, ‘Heart’, ‘&’, ‘Soul’ this April 2021

In a video message delivered directly to his fans through his fan club, the Church Choir, country superstar Eric Church shared the exciting news that this April fans can look forward to receiving three individual albums from the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year.

“I have three albums coming out in April. They came out of my 28 days in the mountains of North Carolina, where the songs were recorded and written. The collection is entitled Heart & Soul.” Church shared in the message.

Creating the middle album, ‘&’, specifically for his Church Choir fan club, the project will be available exclusively to those fans and only as a vinyl record on Tuesday, April 20. The other two albums, ‘Heart’ and ‘Soul’, will be available everywhere on Friday, April 16 and Friday, April 23, respectively. Pre-orders for all three albums begin for the Church Choir next Thursday, January 28 and for the general public, next Friday, January 29.

“It’s been a long 10 months. With the power of music and love for each other, we will get through this, we will gather again soon. I cannot wait to play this music for you live. It is the very best we’ve ever made. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the records” Church shares to conclude the video message.

Check out the full track list for each of the albums below:

Heart Track List

(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Heart On Fire (Eric Church)
  2. Heart Of The Night (Eric Church, Jeremy Spillman, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell, Travis Hill)
  3. Russian Roulette (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Monty Criswell)
  4. People Break (Eric Church, Luke Laird)
  5. Stick That In Your Country Song (Davis Naish, Jeffrey Steele)
  6. Never Break Heart (Eric Church, Luke Dick)
  7. Crazyland (Eric Church, Luke Laird, Michael Heeney)
  8. Bunch Of Nothing (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde)
  9. Love Shine Down (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeffrey Steele)

& Track List
(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Through My Ray-Bans (Eric Church, Luke Laird, Barry Dean)
  2. Doing Life With Me (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeffrey Steele)
  3. Do Side (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  4. Kiss Her Goodbye (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  5. Mad Man (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  6. Lone Wolf (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell)

Soul Track List
(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Rock & Roll Found Me (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Driver Williams)
  2. Look Good And You Know It (Eric Church, Jonathan Singleton, Travis Meadows)
  3. Bright Side Girl (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde, Scotty Emerick, Clint Daniels)
  4. Break It Kind Of Guy (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Luke Dick)
  5. Hell Of A View (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Monty Criswell)
  6. Where I Wanna Be (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeremy Spillman, Ryan Tyndell)
  7. Jenny (Eric Church)
  8. Bad Mother Trucker (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Luke Dick, Jeremy Spillman)
  9. Lynyrd Skynyrd Jones (Casey Beathard)
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Eric Church releases.

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

Looking for new country music? Check out the latest recently released tunes on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

BREAKING: Eric Church Set To Release Triple Album – ‘Heart & Soul’

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Eric Church is set to release not one, not two, but THREE albums this April.
The country music superstar confirmed in a newsletter to his fan club and during his latest episode of Outsiders Radio on Apple Music Country:

“If you haven’t heard by now, we just announced some big news to start off the new year.  It’s an announcement I’ve been waiting a long time to make: I will have THREE ALBUMS coming out in April.

That is the first song on the first of three new albums that I’ll have comin’ out in April.  Album 1 is titled ‘Heart,’ and will be released on April 16th.  The album features 9 songs including “Stick That In Your Country Song,” “Crazyland,” and the song you just heard: “Heart On Fire”.

The THIRD is called ‘Soul,’ and it’ll be released on April 23rd.  We’ll tell you about the second one later, but the ‘Soul’ album is where you’ll find the current single “Hell Of A View,” and it ends with this song, titled “Lynyrd Skynyrd Jones.”

In between those two will be a special album we call ‘&.’  It will be available on white vinyl for Church Choir members only on April 20th.  The three albums together will be ‘Heart’ ‘&’ Soul,’ with a total of 25 songs.  The middle album has a couple of songs you’ve already heard: “Through My Ray-Bans” and “Doing Life With Me.”  We’ll reveal more news about the album in the coming months.”

Check out the full track list for each of the albums below…

Eric Church set to release three albums, 'Heart', '&', 'Soul' this April 2021

Eric Church set to release three albums, ‘Heart’, ‘&’, ‘Soul’ this April 2021

Heart Track List

(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Heart On Fire (Eric Church)
  2. Heart Of The Night (Eric Church, Jeremy Spillman, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell, Travis Hill)
  3. Russian Roulette (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Monty Criswell)
  4. People Break (Eric Church, Luke Laird)
  5. Stick That In Your Country Song (Davis Naish, Jeffrey Steele)
  6. Never Break Heart (Eric Church, Luke Dick)
  7. Crazyland (Eric Church, Luke Laird, Michael Heeney)
  8. Bunch Of Nothing (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde)
  9. Love Shine Down (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeffrey Steele)

& Track List
(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Through My Ray-Bans (Eric Church, Luke Laird, Barry Dean)
  2. Doing Life With Me (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeffrey Steele)
  3. Do Side (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  4. Kiss Her Goodbye (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  5. Mad Man (Eric Church, Casey Beathard)
  6. Lone Wolf (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell)

Soul Track List
(songwriters in parentheses)

  1. Rock & Roll Found Me (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Driver Williams)
  2. Look Good And You Know It (Eric Church, Jonathan Singleton, Travis Meadows)
  3. Bright Side Girl (Eric Church, Jeff Hyde, Scotty Emerick, Clint Daniels)
  4. Break It Kind Of Guy (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Luke Dick)
  5. Hell Of A View (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Monty Criswell)
  6. Where I Wanna Be (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Jeremy Spillman, Ryan Tyndell)
  7. Jenny (Eric Church)
  8. Bad Mother Trucker (Eric Church, Casey Beathard, Luke Dick, Jeremy Spillman)
  9. Lynyrd Skynyrd Jones (Casey Beathard)
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Eric Church releases.

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

Looking for new country music? Check out the latest recently released tunes on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

What We’re Listening To: January 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 January picks. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

JANUARY PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Beer Don’t” – Morgan Wallen
Songwriters: Jake Mitchell, Michael Hardy, Morgan Wallen

It’s been a little over a week since Morgan Wallen released his monster of a project, Dangerous: The Double Album, and let’s face it, from top to bottom it’s pretty much the only thing I’ve been listening to over and over again. It’s nearly impossible to choose a favorite of the thirty songs, but something about “Beer Don’t” just brings me right to summertime concerts at Jones Beach. This song is an instant mood booster and I can not wait to be enjoying it in the pit with a beer in hand while all of our fellow country music fans sing back every word to the tailgate anthem.

 

Christina Bosch, Managing Editor 

Pick: “Livin’ The Dream” – Morgan Wallen
Songwriters: Ben Burgess, Jacob Durret, Michael Hardy, Morgan Wallen

I feel like I am responsible for at least half of the insane amount of streams that Morgan Wallen has racked up over the past 12 days since releasing his sophomore record, Dangerous: The Double Album. While I could write a novel about each of the songs and why I can’t stop listening, one of the most poignant to me is “Livin’ the Dream”. In our world, where all that is shown on social media is a true highlight reel, it’s important to fully grasp how things may not be what they seem. The cadence of the track portrays the constant going, going, going that artists usually feel as well as the exhausting act that needs to be painted of living the “perfect life”.

“Judgin’ by my long hair, you might think I don’t care / Sittin’ here, sippin’ and bitchin’ about a spot where / People would kill to be, kill to be, kill to be / But y’all, it ain’t as good as it seems, this livin’ the dream is / Killin’ me, killin’ me, killin’ me”

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Better Than We Found It” – Maren Morris
Songwriters: Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins, Maren Morris, Laura Veltz

Maren Morris’ “Better Than We Found It” has been on repeat lately as I reflect on the last two months, which in some ways feel like two separate years. But I’m allowing myself to be hopeful this week. The song is gorgeous sonically – Morris’ voice on the chorus soars, and the drums sound like a march, which is the perfect parallel to the lyrics. “When lines of tomorrow are drawn/Can I live with the side that I chose to be on?/Will we sit on our hands, do nothing about it?/Or will we leave this world better than we found it?”. Many things will remain unsolved even after Wednesday’s historical event, but we will be moving towards a kinder future, and I’m on board with that. As Morris and Vince Gill sing on their song “Dear Hate”, released 4 years ago, “love’s gonna conquer all”.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Still Goin Down” – Morgan Wallen
Songwriters: Michael Hardy, Morgan Wallen, Ryan Vojtesak

Morgan Wallen will be the most talked-about artist in Nashville for the next few months—perhaps for all of 2021. With 30 tracks (32 on the Target edition), Dangerous: The Double Album was a lot to take in, but it was 100+ minutes of genuine, enjoyable music. I was going to just pick my favorite song to include as my pick, which would probably be “Sand in My Boots” or “865,” but “Still Goin Down” is the one I constantly find myself singing in my head. It’s super catchy (no surprise, it’s a HARDY co-wrote) and paints a nice picture of a southern, Friday night.

He says “Ain’t groundbreaking. Makin’ sound for them drop-it-down tailgaters. But y’all that’s all I know how to say.” It’s funny how he knows these types of songs are cliché in the industry but still cuts them on the record anyway. Although he shows a lot of vulnerability on the first half of the record, the country way of life will always be a part of him and it wouldn’t be a Morgan Wallen album if he didn’t include songs like this one

“We’re sippin’ clear, drinkin’ beer on a Friday night / Every country girl got on her cut offs / Shakin’ her hips, take a trip, buddy tell me I’m a liar / Still circle up big trucks around a fire / Still kickin’ up some dust behind the tires / Call it cliché, but hey, just take it from me / It’s still goin’ down out in the country”

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Giving You Up” – Kameron Marlowe
Songwriters: Kameron Marlowe

I always love finding new artists who are just coming on to the country music scene. I first heard Kameron Marlowe’s song “Giving You Up” on Sirius XM’s The Highway back in the fall and instantly loved the lyrics and meaning behind the song.

“Cause I’m giving you up // Just like I did them Marlboro Lights // And I’m giving you up // The same way I did the whiskey on ice // And it’s all so tough // You turn me into a man I don’t even recognize // I’m giving you up // The same way you did me out in the moonlight”

Marlowe wrote a breakup song almost everyone can relate to- finally having to say goodbye to someone who once meant so much, something country music excels at time and time again.

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Here For It (Live)” – Lily Rose
Songwriters: Lily Rose, Sarah Forbes

Lily Rose is one of those artists that I found on a whim. Someone on Instagram had put up a song of hers, and as someone who is always looking to find new music, I immediately started listening. Normally the songs that the people from my hometown or the plethora of entertainment industry folk post are not my cup of tea. It can be difficult to find music that speaks to you or even falls in your lane at all, and mixing that fact with the widely diverse group of people that are on your following list is almost a lost cause. Every once in a while though, you find something. Something that speaks to you. A piece of gold that was almost mistaken for a shiny, stained rock.

“Here for It (Live)” is one of those. As a sucker for a good, soothing presence of the piano, Rose caught my attention before her lyrics had soared deliciously smooth and easy over the instrument. And, when her voice did appear like the first hint of pink over the horizon before the sun had yet to peak its way out, I knew. I knew this artist was someone to look out for. And I knew this song would be played on a loop for weeks to come.

 

Caleigh DeCaprio, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Line By Line” – JP Saxe and Maren Morris
Songwriters: Jimmy Robbins, JP Saxe, Maren Morris, Ryan Marrone

The lyrics and the meaning behind this song make it one of my all-time favorites and it’s only been out a week. JP Saxe and Maren Morris wrote this song together about their fellow songwriter, significant others, Julia Michaels and Ryan Hurd. JP Saxe and Julia Michaels met the day that they wrote “If the World Was Ending” together, which a year ago this time, I had on repeat constantly. I’ve been a huge fan of Maren Morris, Ryan Hurd, their music separately, and their story together for years now. On top of that, much like Maren, I am a sucker for songs about songs. Not only is this a beautifully written song and message, but it was inspired and written by two couples and four artists whose songwriting and stories I already loved so much.

“When it comes to you I’m still tryna find the words / A love too big for a love song / If I try to sum it up I know I’d get it wrong / sometimes if it don’t sound right / I apologize I just said it cause it rhymed” When the song was released, the two artists completed the chorus in their social media posts:

JP Saxe: “four chords, three minutes, you’d never fit in it, so I just take you line by line … (what happens when songwriters write songs about loving other songwriters..)

Maren Morris: “to our muses: we’ll be writing about you for the rest of our lives”

 

Julia Grubbs, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Redwood Tree” – Cam
Songwriters: Tyler Johnson, Anders Mouridsen, Cam

Cam stole my heart as soon as I heard “Burning House”; she captured emotion through a story in a way I hadn’t heard before. Her tone and irregular musicality create a complete depiction of life in an extremely unique and articulate manner. Her new album The Otherside follows suit, with lyricism that is unparalleled. “Redwood Tree” spoke to me this month, because though I am far from getting to explore said redwood tree living in quarantine in New York City, I can feel and desire the expansiveness she sings of. The beat sings to adventure in the wilderness, and the lyrics emulate the feeling of stuck we all feel right now.
“Don’t know what you have when you’re young/ Oooh, but you’ll know what you had when it’s gone”
It gives me hope of brighter days to come, a reminder to be grateful for things in the present moment, and an incitement to continue to find adventure. We will see the beautiful world outside our houses again, and nature will be there to share its beauty.

“I saw the world, You saw my parents grow old / You’ve got your roots, And I’ve got the wind, The wind in my soul”

 

Rebekah Milsted, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Undivided” – Tim McGraw Featuring Tyler Hubbard
Songwriters: Chris Loocke, Tyler Hubbard

My January pick is “Undivided” by Tim Mcgraw and Tyler Hubbard. It’s my pick because it’s truly a song that was well needed in today’s world. It’s the perfect reminder that yes, we all have different views but one thing we can all agree on is we need more love and less judgment in the world.

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “God, Sex, & Shame” – Lacy Cavalier
Songwriters: Lacy Cavalier

I have been a big fan of Lacy Cavalier for a while now. Her ability to blur genres, create masterful lyrics, and speak her truth is so relatable and genuine. Her newest song “God, Sex, & Shame”, my January pick, might be her most honest and vulnerable to date.

“There’s all these fucking rules about heaven / I don’t even know what I believe in / But I’m tired of hearing how I won’t get in / If I ain’t no cuz I ain’t a virgin”

Opening up about growing up religious and the pressures associated with being a certain way, Cavalier bears her soul on the track. Moreover, her music video is nothing short of spectacular. I am always rooting for Lacy, and I hope more and more people fall in love with her one of a kind talent and craft.

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.

Carrie Underwood Shares Release Date for Gospel Album ‘My Savior’

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Following the success of her first-ever holiday album last fall, Carrie Underwood is keeping faith front and center for another project coming this spring. ‘My Savior’, the companion record to ‘My Gift’ will be released just in time for Easter, on March 26. 

The album will feature classic gospel covers of traditional hymns that Underwood grew up singing in church. “It’s been such a blessing to make music like this”, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter said in a recent press release. “These two albums have been on my musical bucket list since the beginning of my career, and it feels like the perfect time to share these beloved songs with the world.”

Underwood co-produced the record alongside multi-platinum selling producer David Garcia whose many successes include Underwood’s 2018 studio album, Cry Pretty. 

Carrie Underwood's 'My Savior' is due out March 26th

Carrie Underwood’s ‘My Savior’ is due out March 26th

‘My Gift’ debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country chart (Underwood’s eighth straight album to do so) and continued to hold the spot for four consecutive weeks. The project remained on the Christian charts for more than 3 months. Five individual songs also performed well, including “Little Drummer Boy” featuring the American Idol alum’s young son, Isaiah. When “Hallelujah” (with John Legend), “Favorite Time of Year”, and “Silent Night” landed at #1, #2, and #3 on the Hot Christian Songs chart, Underwood became the first artist ever to hold all three top positions for multiple weeks. 

My Savior is available for pre-order now.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming Carrie Underwood release.

To keep up with Carrie Underwood, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

My Gift is available everywhere you buy or stream music. 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.

Morgan Wallen Interview: Up Close & Virtual with NYCountry Swag

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Smashing all sorts of streaming records and catapulting Morgan Wallen to the top of the charts, his highly anticipated sophomore record, Dangerous: The Double Album is available everywhere now. We spoke with the superstar about the process of writing the project, releasing it in 2021, and giving fans exactly what they want; a ton of new music.

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Check out our full review of Dangerous: The Double Album here and watch the full interview above.

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

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

Dangerous: The Double Album 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 the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.