Blog Archives

NYCS First Impression Walker Hayes ‘8Tracks Vol. 3 – ‘Black Sheep’

December 6, 2019/in Blog, First Impression /by Erica Zisman

Walker Hayes will always remain one of our favorite artists to work with because of his talent, but more importantly because of his unparallel devotion to his family, his craft, and to maintaining true to himself and to his fans. Keeping the tradition alive, Hayes released the third volume of his ‘8Tracks’ record entitled Black Sheep today.

The record features eight diverse tracks that all blur genre lines in the best way possible. Each song relies on rhythmic word phrasing and heartfelt song lyrics, ringing true to the singer-songwriter’s unique style. The opening song, the title track is one of those songs you cannot help but to bounce along to and to smile, while it plays. Hayes’ admits to being a bit of a misfit, reminiscing about his younger days, admitting in the hook “Now that I’m a dad, I feel bad for her daddy”

Slowing it down a bit, “Love Hate” is next song off the record. Hayes’ vocals shine on this electric song. The song is about all of those experiences in life that are a “love-hate thing” like trying to become a successful artist, going through a tough break-up, and wanting someone to love you. Ironically the song takes a turn, truly becoming about the well-crafted lyric “I just hate how much I want you to love me,” a sentiment that most people can relate to.

The next two songs present as diary entries. The first, “Dad’s Sailboat” is a quick-witted and emotional tune. Hayes’ depicts the story of mortality in such a way that is both eye-opening and relatable, as he sings about his father selling his sailboat because he is getting older and the emotional impact that has. The second, “Chapel” is Hayes’ song for his children. Being a dad is a profound title in the singer’s life, and it is refreshing to see an artist sing about it in a clever song. He talks about how a parent and a child might have different dreams, but that a parent’s role is to always to be supportive.

“Chapel, Little apple, fall as far from the tree / as you need to / My love can reach you / Chapel, little apple, fall as far from the tree / as you need to / My love can reach you”

“Goldest” and “Wish I Could Drink” are the next songs off the record. The former is the ultimate compliment to your love immersed in an upbeat tempo. Hayes shares that he would rather have love than anything else in the world, including a medal, award or a Rolex. The latter is a soulful expression of despair. Hayes admits to just wishing he could have some alcohol, during tough times; despite, not having a sip in over four years. This song is an honest recount of the daily struggles of recovery that many people go through, and it is encouraging that someone with Hayes’ platform is bringing awareness to such a vulnerable subject.

Hayes continues the vulnerability with “Acceptance Speech,” an ultimate anthem for self-acceptance. A female singer lends her voice on the chorus, which only adds to the powerful message. The entertainer admits to coping with criticisms and seeking out validation calling himself a “recovering-validation-aholic.” This song shows listeners that we can all exist with hopes, dreams, and insecurities, but we should always be our own cheerleaders.

“This goes out to myself / and every single tear that I felt / telling me that no one can tell me who to be / except for me”

Hayes ends the record with an acoustic version of his heartfelt single “Don’t Let Her.” The song is his ode to his relationship with his wife. It is one of the purest love songs out there right now, and although the lyrics are deeply personal, we are sure that fans resonate with this one.

Overall the central themes of honesty, vulnerability, and family are what will garner Hayes more and more fans. This latest project is just another notch in the singer-songwriter’s belt, showcasing his fearlessness and proving that he has the talent and work ethic to make it in the rough and tumble music industry.

To keep up with Hayes follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and make sure to visit his “Be A Craig” fund as well.

8Tracks Vol. 3- Black Sheep is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

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

The Country Music Community Supports St. Jude ‘This Shirt Saves Lives’

December 6, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

NYCountry Swag’s Christina Bosch & Stephanie Wagner

Over the past few days, we are sure that you have seen celebrities and artists posting on their social media pictures wearing their “This Shirt Saves Lives” t-shirt which goes along with the Country Cares campaign for St. Jude. St. Jude, located in Memphis, Tennessee is a research hospital for children battling cancer and other deadly diseases but the most special part about the organization is, they will never send a family a bill for their medical care. Families receive the best care in the country, at no cost, making the worst and darkest days of their lives a little bit brighter.

Not only is St. Jude currently taking care of patients within its own doors but it’s research facility and labs are open 24/7 and freely share their findings with hospitals and doctors across the country. They are working towards a world where no family ever has to hear the words “you have cancer”.

30 years ago, Randy Owen from the band Alabama stood up during Country Radio Seminar in Nashville and asked his friends, colleagues and radio partners to join together to help St. Jude and the children they serve, and so, Country Cares was born. To learn more about Country Cares and Jessica Turri, a main component in their story recently, check out our Woman of the Month feature.

It costs over a million dollars a day to operate St. Jude each and every day. Donations are what keeps the incredible organization helping children suffering. To donate and get your own “This Shirt Saves Lives” t-shirt head to www.stjude.org.

—————

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:

Jimmie Allen & Michael Ray Bring CMT on Tour to New York City

December 6, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

Last night the CMT On Tour hit Gramercy Theatre in Manhattan and fans filled the venue early to catch Walker County, Jimmie Allen, and headliner, Michael Ray.

The ladies of Walker County kicked things off, it was the girls’ very first time in the Big Apple, they brought their own Indiana brand of country music to the New York City fans. Dressed in sequins from head to toe, the members of the 2020 CMT Next Women of Country class showcased their incredible vocal range and impressed and garnered new fans with their break out single “The Hamptons”. The song particularly hits home with the Hamptons being just so close toNew York City, everyone in attendance could clearly relate to the sentiment.

Next up, one of our 2018 Artists to Watch that we had the pleasure to feature back in 2017, Jimmie Allen. Over the course of the past two years, we have been so happy to watch Allen’s success not only on country radio, his debut single “Best Shot” hitting the top of the charts, but he was also honored at CRS this past February as a member of the New Faces 2019 class. Allen has an undeniable swagger and charisma that he brings to the stage during his set. Performing songs from his debut album, Mercury Lane, the Delaware native entertained the packed house with “High Life”, “Country Lines”, and “Underdogs”. During the latter, Allen made his way from the stage to the tippy top of the venue, high fiving fans, and concert-goers the entire way.

Highlights of his set included his current single “Make Me Want To”, of course, his debut single “Best Shot” and hearing an unreleased song that the future superstar wrote with rapper and songwriter Nelly. The track, “Let The Good Times Roll” is instantly infectious and even includes a snippet of Nelly’s smash, “Country Grammar”. Watch a sneak peek on our Instagram above.

Closing out the night, headliner Michael Ray took the stage to sing all of the biggest hits from his debut and sophomore albums. He performed “Fan Girl”, “You’re On” and “Girl From Spring Break” and although these were never radio singles, the crowd knew every single word and screamed the lyrics back to the singer.

Grabbing a stool and taking time to slow things down a bit he sang his most recent single and number one, “Her World Or Mine”, mashing the end up with Coldplay’s “Fix You”. He also took time throughout the night to honor good old country songs like Brooks and Dunn’s “Red Dirt Road” and welcomed Walker County back to the stage for a duet of Trisha Yearwood’s “She’s In Love With the Boy”. His setlist wouldn’t be complete without “Get To You”, “Kiss You In The Morning”, and “Think A Little Less” and with each hit, the newlywed engaged with the crowd and fed off their infectious energy. He closed the night with “One That Got Away”, one of his biggest hits to date.

The CMT On Tour hits New Jersey tonight and the tour finishes up in Clifton Park on December 7th. For tickets head to www.cmt.com/cmt-on-tour.

For more exclusive clips from the show head to our Instagram Stories.

—————

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:

New York’s Country 94.7’s Inaugural Stars and Strings Recap

December 6, 2019/in Blog /by Lucie Bernheim

New York country fans are some of the most enthusiastic music fans out there, and if Stars and Strings in Brooklyn proved anything, it’s just that. Announced in early October was RADIO.COM, New York’s Country 94.7’s inaugural “Stars and Strings” event at Barclays Center, with a stacked bill featuring acts Sam Hunt, Dustin Lynch, Chris Janson, Blanco Brown, Runaway June, Gone West, and Matt Stell.

The place was already packed when Matt Stell opened the show. He performed his recent #1 “Prayed For You”, and the entire arena was lit up as he sang the tune. He also played his new single, “Everywhere But On”. Blanco Brown was next, and he got the crowd going with his danceable “The Git Up”, a song that’s all about having a good time, which is exactly what the night was intended to do. He had great energy, warming up the crowd so that when it was time for Dustin Lynch and Sam Hunt, they were ready.

Third, was Gone West, Colbie Callait’s new country group. They blew the audience away with their stunning four-part harmonies, singing songs like “What Could’ve Been”, currently about to crack the top 30 on country radio, and the self-titled song “Gone West”. They also performed Callait’s hit “Brighter Than The Sun” which was a really fun surprise, and the audience sang back every word.

Rising stars Runaway June took the stage next, singing their hits “Buy My Own Drinks” and “Wild West”, as well as new jam “Head Over Heels”. They recently finished a tour with Carrie Underwood, where they played Madison Square Garden, and they recently broke a record previously held by SHeDAISY. “Their song went Top 5 on country radio, and it’s the first top 5 by a female trio for the first time in 15 years!” Radio host Jesse Addy told the crowd excitedly when introducing the band. “Everybody who requested this song, thank you, and sing along,” band-member Naomi Cooke yelled at the end of their set.

Chris Janson was fourth, and he got the crowd moving with songs like “Buy Me a Boat” and “Good Vibes”, and it seemed like the entire arena was dancing. preparing them for the two remaining sets. He also covered Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”, which was very fitting, seeing as he was in the Big Apple playing to a sold-out crowd.

It was like a revolving door at Barclays Center – literally – the stage revolved for each act to make things go efficiently as possible and to get each act on stage when they’re supposed to. There was almost always someone performing; it was like a mini-music festival.

Dustin Lynch was next, and he took the arena by a storm, opening with fiery song “Seein’ Red”. He performed a slew of hits from his first three albums, including songs like “Ridin’ Roads” and “Mind Reader”. But perhaps the most poignant moment of the night was when Lynch went into 2012 single “Cowboys & Angels”, a song written about his grandparents’ love story. “We gotta celebrate them being married 63 years this past week,” he told the audience, smiling. “This week, my granddad had major surgery… he’s in the hospital…” he stopped mid-sentence, choked up. “If you could sing this last chorus extra loud for him and me, that’d be great,” The audience sang as loud as they could, clearly moving Lynch, as he stepped back, wiping away tears. “You guys continue to change our lives because you believe in our music, and we love you for that. Thank you.” He ended his set with monster hit, “Small Town Boy”, to which the audience loved.

The audience was abuzz waiting for Sam Hunt to take the stage, as it had been over two years since he last stepped foot in New York City. The roars from the audience when he took the stage, opening with “Leave The Night On” was absolutely deafening. During his opening song and “House Party”, he ran around the arena, trying to interact with as many fans as possible. He performed 8 songs off his debut album, Montevallo, including “Ex To See” and “Take Your Time”. One of the most special moments of the night was when Hunt sat down at the piano to perform his vulnerable song “Make You Miss Me”, completely stripped down. It was like you were back in the writer’s room with him.

“We traveled the country playing our music. Back then, we didn’t have any money. We were flying by the seat of our pants,” Hunt told the crowd before playing Billy Currington cut “We Are Tonight”. “I got a call and found out that [Currington] recorded our song and put it out as a radio single. I also put out the song on my mixtape. So thank you to Billy, wherever you are.”

Hunt also performed his new single, “Kinfolks” for one of the first times, and thanked country radio for supporting him and this song. He also played a yet-to-be-released song from his upcoming sophomore record “Sinning With You,” a guitar-driven ballad about the beginning of his relationship with his wife. To hear the unreleased track check out our post below.

Before he closed out the night with record-breaking “Body Like A Backroad”, Hunt performed “Break Up In A Small Town”, an intense song about how tight-knit small towns can really be, especially when you break up with someone. After he sang the bridge of the song, he sang, “Hannah Lee I’m on my way to you, I don’t know what I’mma say to you, but I know there ain’t no way we’re through”. The audience got quieter, knowing that he was about to go into the emotional track released right before he and his now-wife were engaged, aka “Drinkin’ Too Much”. He sang the chorus of the song acapella with just his band harmonizing, and it was one of the few times during his exciting set that people were quiet, listening to him sing the personal ballad.

It was a night filled with some of country music’s biggest stars, and there was a lot of love and gratitude in the room. It was clear that each artist felt incredibly grateful to be supported by country radio and country music fans. It was a celebration of the past year and a nice reminder that music can connect 19,000 strangers.

To keep up with Sam Hunt, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To stay up to date with Dustin Lynch, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Chris Janson, check him out on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

To stay up to date with Gone West, make sure to follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Blanco Brown, check him out on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Matt Stell, check him out 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:

New Country Music Friday – The Playlist 12/6/19

December 6, 2019/in Blog /by Stephanie Wagner

New Music Friday! This week we get brand new tracks from Carly Pearce, Walker Hayes, Dustin Lynch, Lauren Davidson and more!

Check out all the new music and more on our Spotify New Country Music Playlist below and be sure to follow for updates each and every Friday:

—————————-

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:

Country Stars Celebrate at CMA Country Christmas TV Special

December 5, 2019/in Blog /by Brianna Vacca

Brett Young performs “This Christmas” at the 2019 “CMA Country Christmas” special filmed at Belmont’s Curb Center in Nashville, Tennessee. “CMA Country Christmas” will air on Tuesday, December 3 on ABC.

Following a hilarious one-hour special from country music legend Brad Paisley, it’s officially Christmas in the country music world. Every year, the Country Music Association produces a Christmas special, CMA Country Christmas, to cherish what country music is all about. This year was their 10th annual celebration was filmed at Belmont University’s Curb Event Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and highlighted fabled host Trisha Yearwood making it her first time hosting the special, and her first hosting gig ever other than her successful TV debut Trisha’s Southern Kitchen. Yearwood, dressed in an eloquent, lengthy green ball gown, inaugurated the special with a medley of holiday classics such as “Winter Wonderland,” “Silver Bells,” and “Jingle Bell Rock.”

On hosting nerves the “She’s In Love With The Boy” singer told PopCulture, “I think the biggest thing is being comfortable in front of a crowd. I know it sounds crazy, because what I do for a living is seen by people, but I’m an introvert, which is hard to probably believe. So singing in front of an audience and talking to an audience was something I only had to learn to be comfortable doing.”

Tuesday night’s special on ABC embodied nearly two hours of show-stopping performances from country music’s hottest stars and musical guests from other genres. In the past, the show has seen performers to the likes of Kelsea Ballerini, Tony Bennett, Dan + Shay, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire and Jennifer Nettles who both were former hosts. This year’s special included the likes of Brett Young, Runaway June, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts and more. Here are our favorite moments of the night.

Chris Janson left enough holiday cheer to go around in a bluesy, rockin’ feel-good execution of Chuck Berry’s “Run Run Rudolph.” Janson left a grand smile on stage and then whipped out a harmonica to contribute his special imprint towards the end of his performance to prove just how multi-talented he really is.

Two-time Grammy award-winning Christian pop duo For King & Country performed an electrifying rendition of The Trapp Family Singers’ “Little Drummer Boy.” The Nashville-based band marked one of the most compelling performances of the night.

Country newcomers, Runaway June performed an upbeat and cheerful version of “Sleigh Ride” illustrating their performance with delicate, sparkly red outfits that paired with their harmonious vocal capabilities.

Lastly, Rascal Flatts joined forces with 12 time Grammy award-winning gospel legend CeCe Winans to perform a modish, funky traditional spiritual tune, “Go Tell It on the Mountain.”

The 2019 special also brought together an indelible feministic performance of “Children, Go Where I Send Thee” featuring Tori Kelly, Trisha Yearwood, Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott, CeCe Winans, and Kristin Chenoweth reminding the audience of the importance of females in the music industry.

Other lasting performances including Brett Young’s rendition of “This Christmas,” Chris Young’s “Holly Jolly Christmas,” Tori Kelly’s “Do You Hear What I Hear,” and Rascal Flatts’ “Deck The Halls.”

What a perfect start to the Christmas season. Merry Christmas! 🙂

—————

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:

Taste of Country Festival is now Trailblazer Fest 2020 – Line Up Announced!

December 5, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

This morning, fans and festival goers who have been waiting on the edge of their seats for the big announcement were informed that this year Taste of Country Festival will be a week later than usual, June 12,13, and 14 and is now called Trailblazer Fest.

Along with the new date, they just announced headliners will be Dierks Bentley, Thomas Rhett, and Luke Bryan! Other acts include Kelsea Ballerini, Cole Swindell, The Cadillac Three, HARDY, Dylan Scott, Matt Stell, Gabby Barrett, Blanco Brown, Clare Dunn, Seaforth, and Jon Langston.

In the upcoming weeks, fans can also look forward to a second stage line up, the Next From Nashville stage.

Be sure to check out our recap from this year’s festival here, grab your tickets to Trailblazer 2020 here on December 13th and be sure to sign-up for our Weekly Round-Up, so you don’t miss any upcoming announcements, ticket giveaways, meet & greets and more.

—————

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:

Decade Challenge – Country Music Edition

December 4, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

As 2019 comes to a close, the decade challenge is all the rage throughout social media. Superstars and rising artists alike are taking to Instagram to show pictures of how much has changed or stayed the same over the past ten years. We thought it would be fun to switch it up and to take a look back on some of our favorite country artists’ careers over the past 10 years, as our own ‘decade challenge.’

Photo Credit: (2009) – Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

1. Carrie Underwood- Of course it is hard to forget that this superstar began her epic career after winning Season 4 of American Idol, but it has been fifteen years since that coveted win! In the last 10 years, Carrie Underwood has solidified her place in country music history. Her legacy includes sold-out world tours, six platinum-certified number 1 records, and over a dozen number 1 singles. If that’s not enough, the songstress is a recipient of seven Grammy Awards, and countless other awards, all while being a mother, wife, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Her newest record Cry Pretty is a masterpiece and the next decade with Underwood is sure to be another crazy, beautiful journey!

Photo Credit: (2009) – Drew Mayard // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

2. Thomas Rhett-Presently, Thomas Rhett is a staple in country music, boasting countless songs on the charts and sold-out shows at venues like New York City’s Madison Square Garden; however, ten years ago Rhett was just a kid trying to figure out what he wanted out of life. After landing a publishing deal, the songwriter penned singles for both Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line. It wasn’t until 2012 that Rhett began to release his own music. Just a year later, his debut record It Goes Like This, featuring his first number 1 as an artist, the title track, premiered and Rhett has not looked back since!

Photo Credit: (2009) – via Luke Combs Facebook // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

3. Luke Combs- It is hard to believe that Luke Combs has only been on our radar for just about six years. The singer-songwriter released his first-ever EP back in 2014 with The Way She Rides, following that release with his second EP Can I Get An Outlaw. It wasn’t until two years later, in 2015 that Combs finally released his first single “Hurricane” and debuted his third EP, This One’s For You, which would later become the title of his 2017 major label debut record. Since then Combs has become a member of the Grand Ole Opry, become one of the most decorated country singers with seven straight number one singles and has solidified himself as a bonafide superstar in just a few short years. This just the beginning for Combs’ as he only just released his sophomore record What You See Is What You Get, which is already crushing records, proving that his talent can only grow from here.

Photo Credit: (2009) – Steve Jurvetson // (2019) – Glenn Francis

4. Garth Brooks- Mr. Garth Brooks is a certified legend in the country music industry. He has been making music since the 90s and is the highest-selling solo artist of all time, but his success has not slowed down over the last ten years. After a brief retirement, Brooks when on to headline his own Las Vegas show residency and play hundreds of shows across the world, including his most recent, ‘Dive Bar Tour,’ named after his lead single off his upcoming studio album. He just won his 7th Entertainer of the Year award at the 2019 CMA Awards and we are sure that Brooks will continue to be one of the most successful and well-respected country artists for decades to come.

Photo Credit: (2009) – via Miranda Lambert Facebook // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

5. Miranda Lambert- As a solo artist, Miranda Lambert’s career has been quite the rollercoaster over the past ten years, but she continues to stay true to who she is and fans come out in droves to see her perform. Since 2009, the songstress has released five studio albums, including her most recent, Wildcard. The singer-songwriter has won numerous awards, including two Grammys, and continues to sell-out shows across the country. Most recently Lambert performed at the CMA Awards and also won an ACM for Milestone Achievement Award.

Photo Credit: (2009) – Keith Hinkle // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

6. Luke Bryan- It is crazy to think about how the peak of Luke Bryan’s success has come in the last ten years. A decade ago, Bryan was a rising artist on the brink of greatness. In 2010, he won multiple awards as a new artist, as well as, hit the top spot on the charts with his singles “Rain Is a Good Thing” and “Someone Else Calling You Baby.” Since then, Bryan has had over 20 number one hits and has ventured out to perform shows across the nation. He also serves as one of the judges on American Idol and continues to garner fans with his charm, charisma, and talent.

Photo Credit: (2009) – via Keith Urban Facebook // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

7. Keith Urban- New Zealand-Australian singer-songwriter, Keith Urban is one of the mainstays in country music over the past decade. His music resonates so well with fans from many different countries and cultures. By the time 2009 rolled around, Urban already had six studio albums under his belt. Since then, he has slowed down a bit with releasing music, but his popularity has only risen. Like Bryan, Urban has also served as a judge on the popular television show American Idol and continues to make waves on the charts and at award shows. He is a two-time Entertainer of the Year and we’d be surprised if he doesn’t nab another coveted award in his future!

Photo Credit: (2009) – via Miranda Lambert Facebook // (2019) – Jason Merritt/Getty Images

8. Dierks Bentley- Dierks Bentley has been warming our hearts for almost two decades, but in 2009, Bentley released his fourth studio album Feel That Fire, which went on to produce four top two hits. So far, Bentley’s ninth studio record The Mountain had achieved similar success, with the first two singles “Burning Man” and “Woman, Amen,” reaching the top spot on the charts. The newest record marks the singer-songwriter’s seventh number one record, as well as, another successful tour to his name. Bentley’s music continues to transcend time and it will be interesting to see where this next decade will take him.

Photo Credit: (2009) – via Blake Shelton Facebook // (2019) – Rich Fury/Getty Images

9. Blake Shelton- Over the course of a decade, Blake Shelton has made himself a household name. His personality and his talent have taken him to new heights. The Grand Ole Opry member has released six albums in the last ten years, with one on the way. He has solidified himself as one of the most entertaining artists with his stint as a judge on NBC’s The Voice, as well as, with his invigorating tours and live performances. One of Shelton’s most recent singles “God’s Country” is already a certified hit and his newest single “Hell Right” is still climbing the charts. The singer’s infectious personality is sure to keep him playing on our airwaves for years to come.

Photo Credit: (2009) – Kevin Winter // (2019) – Kevin Winter/Getty Images

10. Lady Antebellum- Although trio Lady Antebellum have been grinding in the industry for several years prior, the last ten years have marked some of the most successful times in their career. Their fourth single “Need You Now” from their second studio album catapulted them to fame, becoming their second number one and a number 2 hit on the all-genre charts, solidifying it as a crossover success. Lady A’s career came to a halt in 2015, when they decided to take a break from making music together. Just two years later the group was back together under a new label and ready to make music again. They currently have a residency in Las Vegas and recently released their newest record Ocean, which is chock full of nostalgia and talent. The record is truly their coming home to country music, and we know 2020 will be an exciting year for the performers.

—————

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 Swag Session: Rachel Wammack

December 4, 2019/in Blog, Swag Sessions /by Christina Bosch

Sony Music Nashville recording artist and songwriter Rachel Wammack stopped by New York Country Swag this past week to perform and chat. This special Swag Session took place at Winnie’s Jazz Bar located in the Refinery Rooftop in New York City, Wammack performed on the piano her two singles “Damage” and “Something People Say”.

Our interview took place just hours before Wammack performed an opening set for the iconic Trisha Yearwood at Town Hall. Watch our full interview and her beautiful performance below.

For more music from artists we’ve featured during our LIVE Swag Sessions, check out our Sessions Playlist below and give it a follow for updates.

To keep up with Rachel Wammack 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:

Jameson Rodgers Announces GREW UP IN THE COUNTRY TOUR

December 3, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

Announced today, Jameson Rodgers is going on his first headlining tour! The GREW UP IN THE COUNTRY TOUR will kick off on Valentine’s Day in Saint Louis, MO and conclude on April 24th at a hometown show for Rodgers at The Lyric Oxford in Mississippi. Along for the tour on select dates are Hunter Phelps, Drew Parker, Jordan Rowe, and Sarah Allison Turner. Rodgers and Phelps just celebrated their first number one as songwriters with Chris Lane’s “I Don’t Know About You”. For more about Phelps, check out our Swag Session below where he performs the song.

“2019 has been a whirlwind year for me, signing a record deal with RiverHouse/Columbia, opening for my brother Luke Combs on his sold out arena tour all year, playing the Stadium at CMA Fest, launching my first single ‘Some Girls’ to country radio, and so much more,” said Rodgers in a press release. “The band and I are so grateful for getting to make a lot of new fans this year and we’re looking forward to playing some longer sets and a lot of new music from my debut album. I’ve asked some of my favorite artists/friends to tag along and I’m really excited for the GREW UP IN THE COUNTRY TOUR next year.”

Tickets for the GREW UP IN THE COUNTRY TOUR go on sale to the general public on Friday. For tickets and more info head to www.jamesonrodgers.com

GREW UP IN THE COUNTRY TOUR 2020
Feb. 14 – Saint Louis, MO / Delmar Hall^
Feb. 28 – Columbia, MO / The Blue Note*
Feb. 29 – Fayetteville, AR / George’s Majestic Lounge*
March 5 – Statesboro, GA / The Blue Room*
March 6 – Sarasota, FL / White Buffalo Saloon*
March 13 – Springfield, MO / Midnight Rodeo*
March 14 – Des Moines, IA / Wooly’s*
March 20 – Lancaster, PA / Chameleon Club#
March 21 – Boston, MA / Brighton Music Hall#
March 22 – Uncasville, CT / Mohegan Sun Wolf Den&
March 25 – New York, NY / Mercury Lounge#
March 26 – Washington, DC / Union Stage#
March 27 – Warrendale, PA / Jergel’s Rhythm Grille#
March 28 – Rootstown, OH / The Dusty Armadillo#
April 17 – Athens, GA / Georgia Theatre+
April 18 – Starkville, MS / Rick’s Café+
April 23 – Nashville, TN / Exit/In+
April 24 – Oxford, MS / The Lyric Oxford+

*Drew Parker
#Hunter Phelps
+Jordan Rowe
^Sarah Allison Turner
&Free Show

—————

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: