Throwback Thursday – Lori McKenna Songs You May Have Forgotten

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By Michal Pietrzak

Lori McKenna

Lori McKenna is an amazing songwriter, storyteller, and performer and one of our NYCS Swag Spotlights. She is one of the most prestigious artists in the country music industry. Over the last three decades, as she became a wife and mother, she has also emerged as one of the most respected, prolific singer-songwriter in popular music. 

What makes her special is a passion for storytelling as she admits in her bio “Every single person in the world has such awesome stories. I love to write songs that just shine a little light on that for a second. Maybe our stories remind us of our families and what they give us. It’s beautiful, and sometimes we take it for granted” 

McKenna has written songs for Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Tim Mcgraw, and George Strait. She performed such great songs as “The Time I’ve Wasted”, “People Get Old”, “A Mother Never Rests”, “Stealing Kisses” and “Two Soldiers Coming Home”

These 10 lesser-known Lori McKenna songs, slow tunes, soft and calming voice of Lori will help you smoothly sail through current bad times. 

  1. What’s One More Time – Really, what is really one more time? Is it too much or too little? Breaking someone’s heart whether it’s intentional or unintentional leaves damage but where is this thin invisible line when you say enough is enough? Maybe not directly but McKenna asks these questions in this slow tempo song. “I have cried your name so many times/ What’s one more time?/ I have cried these tears for you/ So many times/ What’s one more time?”

 

  1. It’s Easy When You Smile – There may not be any scientific evidence but a smile has healing powers. A genuine smile that comes from the heart is for a soul like the first breeze of the spring. It brightens your mood, eases all pains and navigates you to happiness. That’s why: “It’s easy when you lough/ Troubles cut in half/ Where I will go without you?/ I don’t know/ Outside the night is breezing by/ Don’t cry/ And everything will be alright”

 

  1. Fireflies – Dreams, sweet dreams help us stay sane. Being dreamy isn’t bad, it drives you to better tomorrow. Dreamers change the world and the way you perceive it. The lesson is: Think outside the box, let your imagination run wild from time to time. “Because I was taught to dream/ I found mayonnaise bottles/ And poked holes on top to capture Tinkerbell/ And they were just fireflies to the untrained eye/ But I could always tell”

 

  1. Unfinished Song #57 – Definitely one of the most creative song titles but the song is actually finished. The sorrow in McKenna’s voice is sensible and it makes lyrics even more real and relatable. “Well I don’t wanna forget you/ Even if I could/ The reason that I met you/ Is cause God thought I should”

 

  1. Afternoons – 10 minutes and 55 seconds of pure joy. Relaxing slow melody and great lyrics. It’s actually two songs in one with a little intermission between. During the interlude, you can hear noises of the living house, plates and glasses making noises, people chatting, it makes this song even more unique. “And this loneliness can be such a curse/ I never thought you’d be the one to go first/ What am I to do now that I wait for you/ And you are the one who’s off somewhere/ Wait for me, wait for me/ What if I can’t find you when I get up there”

 

  1. The Most – What matters the most in life? It’s a great question and the answer is not easy. To some, little things are the most important, to others are the material goods or memories trapped in these things. Everyone has a different answer but we all can agree the most important are the people you love, not the money and what you acquire. “In my life/ Don’t know why the little things make us/ and sometimes it takes us/ too damn long to figure out what matters the most”

 

  1. Rocket Science – It’s supposed to be easy, you meet somebody, fall in love and live happily ever after but it’s far more complicated than that. Everyone looks for love but not everybody truly experiences it, that’s why love may be rocket science after all. “Love is rocket science/ What comes up it must come down/ In burning pieces on the ground/ We watch it fall/ Maybe love is rocket science after all”

 

  1. All I Ever Do – A love that never fades is such a rare thing these days. Love that lasts through ups and downs. “All I ever do is work/ All I ever do is pray/ But I do know that I have for you/ A love that never fades/ And it’s ok/ If It’s all I ever do”

 

  1. Witness To Your Life – The chorus perfectly describes what the song is about. “All You really need is someone to be here/ Someone who never lets you disappear/ And I will be that witness to your life/ This may be just a softer place to fall/ But somebody will answer when you call/ And I will be that witness to your life”

 

  1. Pieces of Me – Everybody’s life is like a jigsaw puzzle, each and every one piece must fit with others to create a full picture. There are sometimes pieces that are a little bit used, scratched, or broken and you have to replace them with new ones that will make your image complete again. “My life is written down on papers in my room/ And yours is bottled up somewhere/ So I’ll send you letters from half across the moon/ And it will cross your mind but you won’t dare”

Lori McKenna’s passion for storytelling and delightful and calming voice and slow tunes make you drift away from shaky and rough reality to harmonious and state of mind. She’s the kind of artist that you can’t stop listening to once you start.   

To keep up with Lori McKenna follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

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

 

MARCH PICKS:

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Man Enough Now” – Chris Bandi
Songwriters: Jason Allen Duke, Jason Massey

After seeing Chris perform this song live for a Swag Session earlier this month, I loved it even more than I had originally. The lyrics depict a story that everyone who has been in a relationship can relate to. I’m really looking forward to seeing this song take country radio by storm.

 

Christina Bosch, Managing Editor 

Pick: “Janice at the Hotel Bar” – Hailey Whitters
Songwriters: Lori McKenna, Hailey Whitters

This was always going to be my pick for March but the words to “make a good life” ring true even more as we face these scary times with COVID-19. The thing I love about this song most is I have been following Living with Landyn on Instagram for over 5 years and I remember her telling a story about a woman that she met in a hotel bar in NYC and one of my all-time favorite songwriters, Lori McKenna heard the story and teamed up with Hailey to write the song.

We all have a ‘Janice’ in our life, someone who has great advice and who has lived a life to admire. The words in this song resonate so clearly to not take anything for granted and to remember what truly matters in life.

“Make good love, good company / Drink good wine, make good coffee / Keep your chin up, but every once in a while / Have a good cry / Well, go on and make a good living, girl, don’t forget / To make a good life”

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Small Town Hypocrite” – Caylee Hammack
Songwriters: Caylee Hammack, Jared Scott

I’ve liked all of Caylee Hammack’s previously released singles, but when I heard her new song, “Small Town Hypocrite”, I was instantly stopped in my tracks. The delicate guitar is stunning, and the lyrics are evocative and cut you right to your core. “And that scholarship was a ship that sailed/When I chose you and daddy gave me hell”, she sings on the second verse, telling the story of a girl who’s dreams were bigger than her town but had succumbed to what she described as a small town hypocrite: everything she used to hate. It’s clear that Hammack is on her way to becoming one of country’s best songwriter-artists. Her voice soars on the chorus, where she sings with everything in her, “And I’m staring at a picket fence/Wondering where the hell time went/I should’ve been running, running, running by now/But I just hang around.” It’s a powerful song that is very autobiographical but manages to still be universal.

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: Pretty Heart” – Parker McCollum
Songwriters: Parker McCollum, Randy Montana

This song is getting a lot of airtime on Sirius XM and for good reason. This track is extremely catchy and Parker’s distinctive vocals give it that uniqueness that will make this a smash-hit for him. I never heard of McCollum before this song. I thought he was a new, up-and-coming artist but after looking him up, I discovered he has two full-length albums. I guess I have something to do during the quarantine.

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Thinking ‘Bout You” – Dustin Lynch
Songwriters: Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly 

This album has been out for more than two months and I’m still playing it on repeat. The mix of Dustin Lynch’s smooth, southern twang and Lauren Alaina’s powerhouse vocals gives me a chill every time. The concept is simple as Lynch sings about an old love interest calling him and immediately all these memories come to mind.

“I was just thinkin’ ’bout that weekend out on Cumberland Lake // And that one time in Baton Rouge when we made out in the rain // Where we went chasin’ fallin’ stars on a hill at your daddy’s farm // Don’t be sorry for callin’ me up out of the blue // I was was just thinkin’ ’bout you”

I think almost everyone can relate to a song like this and Lynch, as a songwriter and a singer, is so good at bringing out those nostalgic moments.

 

Jeremy Chua, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Ain’t Lookin’ Back” – Mo Pitney
Songwriters: Derek George, Tony Martin, Wendell Mobley

Mo Pitney’s back with new music this year, baby! His latest release, “Ain’t Lookin’ Back,” reflects on his decision to not let the past define his future while acknowledging the undeniable impact past events have in shaping his life. I think this aspect and two-way thought really resonates with me because, again, of the recent changes and happenings in my life. His sentiment on this encouraging tune comes out at a timely point in my life. “I spend enough time watching the sunset / All the way down into the darkness / Now I just wanna drive every day / Right into the sunrise,” he sings, almost as if he’s lived through these questions, doubts and resolution. Hell, maybe he has– and that’s what makes this delivery special. (side-note: excited about Mo’s sophomore record, due for release later this year! “A Music Man” will hit home for many.)

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Halfway Home” – Carly Pearce
Songwriters: Carly Pearce, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz

Carly Pearce lays down her soul with a freeing yet guilty revelation in a new track, from her sophomore self-titled album, “Halfway Home”. It sets the stage to annotate a halfway-out-the-door type of relationship that is preserved solely out of the fear and reluctance in breaking a heart.

The lyrics are magic and take on a more conversational route than what one might be used to. This couplet introduces the humble goodbye to a love grown out of itself which immediately grabs the listeners’ attention and gives Pearce the chance to tell the rest of her story:

“Blame it on me, I’m an actor, I’m a fake / Blame it on me, I broke your heart but by mistake”

The production involves guilt, but somehow the heartbreaker is seen as an innocent. It’s all in the delivery and this singer-songwriter delivered well.

 

Molly Holmberg, Contributing Writer

Pick: “God Whispered Your Name” – Keith Urban
Songwriters: Chris August, James Slater, Micah Carter, Shy Carter

“God Whispered Your Name” is Keith Urban’s newest music release since his single “We Were” alongside Eric Church. The song sets the somber mood of a lost soul looking for its way in the world. It was not until God whispered a name that the world suddenly began to make sense again. Whether it was a person that came into your life or a realization you had, everyone can relate to going through a journey of being lost and found again. I personally can relate to that in so many areas of my life and the lyrics really hit me upon first listen.

“Suddenly I wanna live / More than I ever did / I’m never gonna be the same / When God whispered your name”

 

Briana Lopez, Contributing Writer

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

Kameron Marlowe is an artist that I recently came across. His song “Giving You Up” is a somber story of growing from a heartbreak.

The lyrics and melody tell a story that I feel like everyone can relate to. Everyone loves a good heartbreak song and this one hits every major point. Marlowe begins the song by telling the person who crushed his heart not to come around anymore after how the relationship ended.

“Don’t you dare try and reappear after you already got me standing here/ I can’t believe you would come at me looking for a little bit of sympathy/ Like I wasn’t the one you left all alone crying/ Looking like a hot mess/ Don’t show your face’ round here any more honey/ This is something you better get through your head”

For me, the best part of the song is the chorus because it shows the transition from hurting to realizing what is actually happening in his life.

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

This is definitely the ultimate bounce back from a break-up song. Showing that there is hope in the heartache and hope in rebuilding your heart after someone does you wrong.

 

Nicole Piering, Contributing Writer

Pick: “If The World Was Ending” – Hannah Ellis & Nick Wayne
Songwriters: JP Saxe, Julia Michaels

Even before all of the madness that is COVID-19 and social distancing, I was hooked on the song “If the World Was Ending” by Nick Wayne and Hannah Ellis. The song tells the story of two ill-fated lovers, as he asks if she’d come over if the world was ending. The pair may not be meant for each other long term, but there’s love there that they need to express upon the end of the world. On the mostly-acoustic duet, the pair harmonize mournfully over Wayne’s guitar strumming. “But if the world was ending/ You’d come over right?”, they implore each other, and this song has never felt more timely than in these uncertain times. Sometimes you just need a sad song, and “If the World Was Ending” is the perfect one, especially now.

 

Michal Pietrzak, Contributing Writer

Pick: “I’ll Be The Sad Song” – Brandy Clark
Songwriters: Brandy Clark, Chase McGill, Jessie Jo Dillon

I don’t know if it’s her storytelling or voice but she’s simply wonderful. I guess I love sad songs because I can’t stop listening to it since it had been released. This record has all the features I adore, beautiful melody, true to the core lyrics, delightful voice, and amazing performance. So far Brandy Clark’s Your Life is a Record album is my favorite album of the year.

“If your life is a record/ People and places are the songs/ I’ll be your sad song/ Your “what we almost had” song/ Your “might’ve been but wasn’t meant to be”/ Couldn’t be your happy song/ But at least we had a song/ So I’ll be the sad song you sing/ ‘ Cause you’ll always be that song to me”

Pick: “One Margarita”- Luke Bryan
Songwriters: Josh Thompson, Matt Dragstrem, Michael Carter

My song for March is “One Margarita” by Luke Bryan. Times are crazy right now, one thing getting shutdown after another. This song came out at the perfect time to remind us to live in the moment, relax and enjoy a margarita, even if at the moment this has to all be done from home. We can’t stop enjoying life just because we’re stuck inside. The world will hopefully return to normalcy soon.

Pick: “What Are You Gonna Tell Her” – Mickey Guyton
Songwriters: Emma-Lee, Karen Kosowski, Mickey Guyton, Victoria Banks

I can’t remember the last time a song gave me chills from the first verse through the final note but the timely ballad from Mickey Guyton absolutely blew me away. The new song, which she premiered during Country Radio Seminar in Nashville last month, got a standing ovation from the crowd for its haunting reminder of the inequities women face in our society. One of the things that make country music so powerful is the honesty with which artists write, and you can tell from listening to this track that Guyton feels incredibly passionate about this topic. The verses describe an innocent young girl with the world at her fingertips and the hard truth that the deck is stacked against her.

“But what are you gonna tell her when she’s wrong? / Will you just shrug and say it’s been that way all along? / What are you gonna tell her when she figures out / That all this time you’ve built her up / Just so the world could let her down? / Yeah what will you tell her?”

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “White Lightning” – The Cadillac Three

Songwriters: Jaren Johnston

This month I’m throwing it back to a song from five years ago, “White Lightning” by The Cadillac Three. After recently seeing the incredible trio perform in New York City, and falling in love with their newest album, I rediscovered how much I enjoy this particular song. Although different than their typical ‘rough around their edges’ tunes, I truly believe the song was one of the first to really show how versatile and musical the band can be.

“Faster than number three breaking every record / Faster than a tree dies in the desert / Faster than a bug splattered on my windshield / Faster than you die when you take too many pills / Ooh, I saw white lightning / Ooh, I saw white lightning”

Additionally, I love that it’s a love song because it’s unexpected. The vulnerability in the song is both endearing and believable, and I especially love how pretty, yet strong the vocals are. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the song is a solo-write by Jaren Johnston, which to me, makes it that more special. So in the midst of all the new and great music that is constantly being released, I encourage you to add this old-school jam back to your playlist!

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.

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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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How To Help The Music Industry Through These Hard Times

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As we all face the uncertainty of the next few weeks amid the Covid-19 outbreak, besides hospitality, bars and restaurants, one of the industries getting hit hardest is ours, the music industry. With all concerts, festivals, and gigs canceled for the foreseeable future, artists and their teams are really struggling. The people behind the scenes are struggling too, everyone from songwriters, publicists, management and labels.

Here are a few ways that you can help support the industry that makes your favorite music during these next few weeks.

Support small businesses. Like most of the industry, our company NYCountry Swag is facing colossal consequences of the virus outbreak. One way you can help support our small business is to grab a ‘Kindess Isn’t Canceled’ t-shirt from our merch store. NYCountry Swag was built off a love of music, passion, artists, and most importantly fans. We ask that if you are fortunate enough to be in a comfortable position, you strongly consider making a purchase from NYCountry Swag to help get us through these difficult times. We’re setting these tees at $28 to ensure profitably, but are giving you the option to pay what you want. Every penny will help. We want to express our sincere gratitude for each and every one of you. We couldn’t have made it this far without you and thank you for your continued support. Shop here: ‘Kindness Isn’t Canceled.

Although Spotify and Pandora are great ways to sample new music, the amount of money an artist and their teams make when you stream their song is less a fraction of pennies. If you are loving a new album, or an old one, be sure to head to their website, iTunes, or Amazon and snag their latest album. This will significantly benefit the industry and only costs you a few dollars.

Another great way is to buy a shirt or hat from their merchandise store. Think about it this way, if you were heading to their show, you were pretty likely to stop by their merch booth. This is a great way to support your favorite artist and get some cool gear at the same time.

Sharing music during this time won’t only help spread awareness about new artists but also is a great way to calm anxieties about this virus and our world changing. Share what is on your current ‘quarantine playlist’ or which new artist you are loving at the time.

We can’t wait to come out of this pandemic a stronger nation and can’t wait to see your faces at live concerts and events soon!

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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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Gabby Barrett & Ingrid Andress Break Into The Top 10 on the Charts

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Ingrid Andress Gabby Barrett

We named last year, 2019, the year of women in country music, but 2020 is continuing the momentum. Earlier this month, we celebrated International Women’s Day at Refinery Rooftop with Madison Kozak, Nicolle Gaylon, and of course our NYCS family, and today we get to celebrate womanhood yet again. Two rising female songstresses in the industry, Gabby Barrett and Ingrid Andress, two of our 2020 Artists to Watch, have broken into the Top 10 on the Billboard charts with their debut singles.

 

 

Historically, female country artists have not had the same recognition on the charts, as male country artists, so this is a big deal. After rising in popularity, former American Idol star, Gabby Barrett’s debut single “I Hope” has finally reached the number 9 spot. The song has been one of our favorites for a while, and we are so proud to see Barrett soar to new heights! As for Ingrid Andress, her song “More Hearts Than Mine” also broke the top 10. We believe she is one of the most powerful new voices in the genre.

 

Both artists have made history, as this is the first time that two lead solo female artists have had debut hits rank in the top 10 together! Together, the ladies are breaking down barriers and representing women across the country genre. This major feat happened to occur, when a leading lady in country music, Maren Morris has snagged the top spot on the chars with her single “The Bones.”

We hope that this is just the beginning for Barrett and Andress, and we cannot wait to see other female artists get the recognition, praise, and support that they deserve on the charts and in their careers as well! As Kristen Williams of Warner Music Nashville shared in an article for Billboard, “Let’s make this habit instead of history.”

To keep up with Gabby Barrett follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To keep up with Ingrid Andress follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

—————

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

High Valley Release New Track, “Grew Up On That”

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High Valley

In the wake up some crazy times, good news is here for High Valley fans! Brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel make up the duo, High Valley, who have been on the country scene for years. We named the Canadian-based singers one of our 2017 Artists to Watch and for good reason. Their unique sound and swagger have kept fans loyal, and nowhere is that more evident than their newly released single “Grew Up On That.”

The new bop is a nostalgic song that you are going to want to add to your playlist after just one listen. As the men said via their social media, “Grew Up On That” is an ode to life, “This one’s about all the things we grew up on that led us here.” The song is ear-pleasing, intoxicating, and an overall feel-good jam. You cannot help but reminisce about all the things, all the adventures, and all of the people that have helped you get to the place you are in right now. High Valley allows fans an intimate look into their journey through the video below, that accompanies the new tune.

“Ricky Skaggs on the vinyl / King James on the Bible / Feet on the dash with ourselves in the back / We grew up on that / Big dreams on a diet road with a dismal town sun sinkin’ / Barbed wire, bonfires, one red light blinkin’ / Home team, blue jeans, let her wear your jacket / Had it so good / didn’t know how good we had it, oh”

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

“Grew Up On That” 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!

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

NYCS First Impression: LJ Releases Debut EP ‘Pick Me’

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LJ Pick Me

Texas-born, Nashville based singer + songwriter LJ released her debut EP Pick Me after signing with RED Creative Group. The EP was recorded at Castle Studios where legendary artists such as Alabama, Bob Dylan, and George Strait have recorded. LJ enlisted producers Jeremy Stover who also has co-written Justin Moore’s “The One Who Didn’t Make It Back Home”, and Boys Like Girls’ Paul DiGiovanni who are also working on her full-length release.

The EP inaugurates with “Scarecrow,” the soften, tempo cardinal ode to leaving home. This song encompasses rolling drums, blithe-fretwork as her vocals annotate the reasonings why she couldn’t just stay. “I couldn’t just stick around, tethered to the ground // Watchin’ the sun go down, without one to chase and // I’ve got my own seeds to sow, the only way they’re gonna grow is to // Throw them in the wind and see where it takes them // That’s why I had to go couldn’t sit and watch the corn turn gold // Like some old scarecrow.”

The title track “Pick Me” is a weighted aria as LJ ruminates back on the feeling of loving somebody but having to let them go. It’s an assemblage of recollections and feelings throughout the start of the relationship to the end. “You just had to go and tear me down // You just had to have it your way now // Selfish boy it could’ve been so good // But you just had to go and break my heart // Crushed my dreams and killed my spark // Wish something else caught your world when you reached down to pick me // Of all the flowers, you just had to pick me. //

“Vegas,” written by Kelly Archer and Nathan Spicer, initiates the free-spirited essence of the sin city superimposing optimistic instrumentation. Back in October of 2019, we highlighted LJ in an NYCS Swag Spotlight where she exclusively spoke about her single. The singer + songwriter incontestably shot the music video for this single with her professional baseball player husband where they also renewed their vows. She told us: “When I was dating Ricky, I remember feeling like I wanted to run off and marry him, so we wanted to give that feeling of like, getting on a plane and going to the place that has tested the time of running away and getting married.”

The newly-released single “The Two of You” fixates on LJ’s gravelly vocal work while amalgamating a medium-tempo drive unleashing her sassy side while “Suit Yourself” unveils that same cheekiness. The singer + songwriter got the idea for the track while watching Gidget Goes Hawaiian, she told NashvilleGab. “Suit Yourself” is a blend of homey-blues with the takeaway being: “If my love doesn’t suit you, then suit yourself.”

LJ divulged her elation on her social media, “A lot of years, miles & memories went into making this debut EP. Each of these 5 songs I am so incredibly proud of… four of them you know and the 5th one is the final piece we have been saving. If you’ve streamed my music once or 1000 times, I want to say thank you. Thank you for giving me and my music a chance. Thank you to my team at Red Creative Group, and Brooke Antonakos for having my back and for believing in the vision. I love you Brooke! Huge thank you to @pauldigiovanni & @jeremystover for helping make this music what it is. Y’all are incredible. Thank you to all my collaborators in these songs. I had the best musicians in the world play on my record. To my husband Ricky, thank you for believing in me and supporting my dream. I love you, baby. To my family, thank you for your support and all the prayers you’ve prayed over me. God is so good! I love this music and I hope it brings you some sort of hope, love or peace. Here is my debut EP, these songs are my story, this is me.”

Follow LJ on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Pick Me Tracklist

Scarecrow
Pick Me
Vegas
The Two of You
Suit Yourself

 

 

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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:

NYCS First Impression: Rob Bellamy & Ayla Brown ‘Make It Mean Something’

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Ayla Brown Rob Bellamy

The applicable time to prosecute a passion in music is straight away, regardless of what you have already consummated and your age. The flair between duo-group Rob Bellamy and Ayla Brown is beyond prodigious. Between the two, plentiful dreams have been made with more to come. In 2004, Bellamy was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers after college at The University of Maine in Orono and after transiting to Nottingham, England to play hockey overseas, decided to pursue music. Brown is a former NCAA Basketball Player and is a past American Idol contestant who landed in the Top 16. Now, she is the co-host of The Jonathan and Ayla Show on Country 102.5.

The pair recorded their first country-Americana debut EP Make it Mean Something in Portland, Oregon. The title track is a jovial, heavy-acoustic guitar-driven tune introducing the anatomy of the duo-group to the world. “Nothing Gonna Stop” trails off of the love skirt of the title track harboring the singer’s amicable harmonies singing: “I’m gonna find the sweetest honey, even if I’m getting stung by bees // I’m gonna sail across the ocean, even if I hit stormy seas // Hot dessert, I’ll cross it // Through fire, I’ll run it // A hole in the ground that I can’t get around // Ain’t a thing in the world gonna slow me down // Nothing gonna stop, nothing gonna stop, nothing gonna stop from getting me to you and me. //

“Always Have A Home” channels an elephantine folk-ambiance with the picking of the instrumentation. It escalates the love theme even further with the tag, “Your heart will always have a home.” The closer “Built That Way” is an emotional, well-constructed ballad where the duo confess what makes them who they are. They sing, “I plant my butt at an old wood pew on Sunday morning // I hit my knees every time I pray // I bow my head when I beg for forgiveness // And I damn sure stand every time Old Glory waves // Yeah, I’m just built that way.”

Bellamy communicated on his Instagram to express his gratitude for all their fellow co-writers and “Out TODAY on all platforms. @aylabrownofficial and I recorded this EP in Portland, Oregon @jackpotrecording. Big thanks to @gusberry for helping us bring these songs to life! Also a big thanks to a few of the co-writers on these songs. @bwhytecomedy who helped us write “Nothing Gonna Stop” “Love Me Like Hell” and “Built That Way.” @stevedeanmusic who helped us write “Make It Mean Something.” And @ellewine who helped us write “Thinking Of You.” If you like what you hear please help us share! Excited to see you at some of our next shows.”

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

To keep up with Ayla Brown follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Make It Mean Something 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!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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NYCS Swag Spotlight: James Dupré

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James Dupré

This week our Swag Spotlight shines on rising artist, James Dupré. We chatted with the singer-songwriter about his path to find music, his stint on The Voice, his hopes for his career going forward, and everything in between.

Growing up in small-town Bayou Chicot, Louisiana, Dupré remembers his parents listening to a lot of different styles of music, but for the singer, one particular voice transcends all for him. “I remember hearing Vince Gill sing for the first time,” he told us, “I remember his voice just absolutely amazed me, and I knew from then, I wanted to be a singer.” Other artists that he credits for his love of music includes greats like Merle Haggard and Randy Travis, and more modern artists like Eric Church and John Mayer, who he draws inspiration from for his own music.

Despite having a passion for music, Dupré’s life took a different turn. The singer actually went to college to study meteorology, where he subsequently also joined a band. At that time, he felt like he should be putting his focus on music, so he went back home, where he worked as a paramedic, all while, writing songs and recording Youtube videos.

Due to his popularity on YouTube, daytime and comedic sensation, Ellen Degeneres invited him on to her show. According to Dupré, “That was the first time I’ve ever been on television. […] It was an amazing experience being backstage and just kinda diving in to see how a major network TV show works behind the scenes. I was hooked after that.”

Dupré found himself moving to Nashville, Tennessee shortly after that. He signed with Warner Music Nashville and released his first debut project. Still being young and trying to cultivate his voice and his message, Dupré ended up leaving the label. With music still his passion, a friend of his, encouraged him to try out for Season 9 of NBC’s The Voice.

After a successful stint on the show, Dupré’s passion was reignited, and he knew once again that music was his calling. “You hear people, old-timers that have been in Nashville for decades- they say that really perseverance is the key because there are so many people that come here, and it’s easy to get discouraged,” adding, “But the people that stick it out no matter what- there’s gong to be ups and downs, those are the people that end up making it. And I don’t have a plan B. I don’t have anything to fall back on and I just love what I do. And I’m so lucky that I’ve had the opportunities that I’ve had, and I’m just going to continue doing it,” he declares.

Within the past year, Dupré has garnered many new fans of his own. Over the summer, the singer released a single to country radio called “Another Love Song,” after the song performed really well digitally on streaming platforms. He also was handpicked by his icon and now friend, Randy Travis for his ‘The Music of Randy Travis 2019 Tour.’

“The only way I can describe it is like going to Disney World like every day,” he tells us about the tour, “Randy Travis is an icon and I grew up listening to him and to be on stage- and to be on stage, including the Ryman Auditorium, with his original band, singing all these great songs, it was just a dream come true.”

According to Dupré, there is talk about the tour adding some more shows this year as well. Additionally, the singer released another song that just went to country radio called “You’re Probably Drunk Right Now.” The song showcases how a break-up feels on both sides of the dissolution of a relationship, and luckily for Dupré fans, both the new single and “Another Love Song” are part of a full-length album that is in the works, and slated to be released in summer, 2020. Fans are sure to be hearing a lot more from Dupré as the year continues, and we are excited to see how his career continues to blossom.

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

“Another Love Song” and “You’re Probably Drunk Right Now” 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.

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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:

NYCS First Impression: Rachel Reinert ‘Into the Blue’

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By Michal Pietrzak

Into the Blue Rachel Reinert

Into the Blue is Rachel Reinert’s solo debut album and it’s simply amazing. If things could have souls this album would definitely have one.  Reinert moved to Nashville in 2005 to pursue the dream of being a solo artist but became a part of Gloriana, a band that was together creating music for 8 years. 15 years after moving to Music City, she can finally say she is a solo artist and the country music family gained another member. It was an incredible journey with a happy ending as she admits on Instagram –  “I truly did not know if I was ever going to be able to get to do this-to actually hold my album and be able to share myself with whoever is willing to listen. It truly is the greatest gift. To my incredible team and collaborators who helped make this dream a reality, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.”

Before we get to an evaluation of the album here’s an important message posted on social media: “Hey guys. When I imagined finally getting to release my album, this is not the image I had in mind. Promoting it has certainly not been the happy event I was dreaming of given the chaos and tragedy surrounding my city and our world right now. I was supposed to be having a listening party tonight, but unfortunately, my team had to make the difficult decision to postpone. I talked with my team about what the right move is, whether to put my album out tomorrow or not, and I’ve decided that I have to press on with this release. My hope is these songs will bring comfort and joy and relief to everyone who needs it right now. These are some extremely heavy and unprecedented times but music is healing, and I believe it’s what we all need most in trying moments like these.”

Into the Blue is 43 minutes long and consists of 11 amazing songs that were co-written by Reinert. It doesn’t get better than that. Sonically the tunes are relaxing and easy-going while the lyrics are full of hope, determination, courage, feelings, and passion. The first song that stands out from the rest is “Cool” which also is a first song on the album. It showcases the way that you feel when you find your first love and what makes that relationship special and different. It’s a story which went from intense love, through intense hate to being pretty good friends. “Cool/ Me and you/ I never thought we’d get back to/ The way we used to be when we were cool”.

“Here” is another prime example of how Reinert is a spectacular storyteller through her music. The track is about love, hope, dreams, and determination. “I’ve got seven tattoos minus one that I had removed / Blame it all on mistakes of my youth / ‘Cause I do, I do/ I’ve been a grown-up since I was 16 / Left home to chase a dream / California couldn’t hold on to me/ ‘Cause I knew, I knew/ Somewhere up ahead / You’ll be waiting for me with flowers in your hand”.

“King of Hearts” is reminiscent of a song that Reba McEntire would have recorded back in the 90s about boy/man every lady should look out for because he can break your heart and leave you sad.  The next song really makes you think who your friends are as “All We Have” shines a spotlight on the meaning of friendship. You find out true friends when you’re in need. The lesson is: Don’t be fooled by people when you’re on top because when you’re down, only close and true people stay with you. “So I sold everything I had owned/ From the clothes to the big blue home/ It was just stuff keeping me stuck in rewind/ Now I’m filling the new place up with pictures frames/ Of the people that stayed when nothing remained/ But the love they gave made me realize/ All we have is who we are”

“Some Kind Of Angel” is a cream del a cream of the album. It’s the greatest and prettiest diamond in a crown. It’s a song for hopeless romantics. It doesn’t get better than a woman appreciating her man. Usually, women are called angels and that’s justified but every once in awhile there’s a man that can be called an angel. “You just let me be exactly who I need to be/ You make me feel like I’m living my wildest dream/ Sometimes I can’t believe, how you love me so endlessly/ It’s just who you are, you hold my heart like no one else on earth/ It’s such a mystery how you never give up on me/ With all we’ve been through/ Darling you are some kind of angel”  

 With such a great debut album Reinert’s star is on the rise. She delivers each of the tracks with passion and authenticity and that makes her really special. If you have 43 minutes of free time spend them wisely and listen to her album Into the Blue. It’s really worth it.

 To keep up with Rachel Reinert follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Into the Blue 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.

—————————-

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:

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag

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The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

10% of each sale from this collection is donated to different organizations and charities affiliated with our heroes nationwide. Since our launch, we have raised funds for several organizations like The FDNY Captain Timothy Stackpole Foundation, ANSWER THE CALL – New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund, Building Homes For Heroes, Wounded Warrior Project, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Police Unity Tour, and Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

Thank You in advance for your support. We hope that with your help, we can continue to pay it forward to our heroes.

 

Click Here to Purchase Yours Now

The Hero Collection

Thank You for your support!  – Team NYCS

 

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC!

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: