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Ernest: ‘Cadillac Sessions’ – Album Review

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Ernest releases his brand new compilation mixtape, Cadillac Sessions, out now, May 7th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new project here.

To kick off the launch of his new record label, DeVille Records, ERNEST is introducing the world to a host of new talent. In celebration of the release, the singer-songwriter released the Cadillac Sessions, a countrified mix-tape compilation featuring three new artists’ work alongside his own.

The artists featured here, the first signed to the new label, are Chandler Walters, Rhys Rutherford, and Cody Lohden. The LP features two new originals and a cover from each, as well as a few new songs from the Nashville native. Additionally, a few superstar guests hop in to join forces with ERNEST, including Miranda Lambert, Jake Worthington, and Snoop Dogg.

Launched in conjunction with Big Loud Records, DeVille records is focused on doing things differently. “We’re going to build this thing wide and on concrete,” ERNEST says. “Artist development. Write the songs and do it the old-school way. Make the videos, see the vision, help the vision come to life. All of that. … They’re writing such good songs. I just wanted to try to figure out a way to showcase each of ‘em.”

Produced at Nashville’s Castle Recording Studios, the LP finds itself firmly in its country roots, heavily tinted with Western swing, honkytonk, and most obviously, 90’s country. It’s a unique and appealing concept, allowing listeners a mix of new and established artists in a way that doesn’t feel forced or inauthentic. In fact, the songs featured on the Cadillac Sessions fit seamlessly together, despite including everything from Miranda Lambert to Snoop Dogg to Alabama covers.

As to be expected, ERNEST takes up a fair amount of real estate on the LP, but never overshadows the other talents. Instead, he compliments their songs and styles. “Gettin’ Gone” with Snoop kicks off the album with a swamp and bayou-leaning jaunt, while “Another Thing to Love” with Lambert is a quintessential country duet. “Turn Me Up”  is a playful and romantic tune, while “Did It Anyway” has a hint of Eagles-leaning easy listening.

Rhys Rutherford’s originals include “Get Her Name” and “Southern Belle,” with the former a clever take on the one who got away. “Belle” is a melodic ode to the nostalgia of an old love, while “Name” is a catchy midtempo about a bar room rendezvous.

“She likes reading when it rains // Knows every Zeppelin song // She shoots her whiskey straight // Don’t mind doing it alone // Little wild in them brown eyes // Says she gets it from her mom // For a moment she was all mine // Still wonderin’ what went wrong // ‘Cause now she’s gone And it’s drivin’ me”

Cody Lohden makes his mark with “Tail Light, Porch Light, Miller Light” and “TV On,” specifically shining on the latter heartbreak ballad.

“The silence is killing me // Here in these empty sheets I hear the clock, every drop from the kitchen sink // Lamp light keeps buzzin’ on // Fan just keeps hummin’ songs // Girl I’ve been fighting this quiet since you’ve been gone I need some company // That’s why I tend to leave The TV on”

Chandler Walters shines on “Whatever Happened to Us” and “Worth the Trouble,” both which are 90’s inspired and nostalgic tales of love and the past. While “Worth the Trouble” is a swinging dancehall uptempo, “Whatever Happened to Us” finds him longing for simpler times.

“Nowadays the Raiders play in Vegas // Cameras got replaced by mobile phones // Taylor Swift moved onto bigger stages // Willie quit and Petty overdosed // Half of California moved to Nashville // And half of Nashville turned to high-rise now // No one carries any cash // Swipe or tap to pay our tabs // So no one has to lay their bottom dollar down // That’s the game I play when I drink whiskey // How’d we get to here from where it was // One thing in this world remains a mystery // Girl, whatever happened to us?”

With a gorgeous rendition of the Kris Kristofferson classic “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” ERNEST kicks off a segment of the LP dedicated to classic country covers. Walters lets loose “One More Chance” by Vince Gill, Rutherford takes on the Glen Campbell classic, “Gentle On My Mind,” and Lohden puts his spin on Shenandoah’s “Two Dozen Roses.” 

Jake Worthington joins ERNEST on the George Jones and Merle Haggard duet, “Yesterday’s Wine,” and the pair trade verses with perfection, voices complimenting each other. The LP ends with a cover of the classic “Song of the South” and it’s a fun, true-to-the-original cover that allows for ERNEST and his proteges to let loose and harmonize in that classic Alabama style.

While the Cadillac Sessions may not be your typical album, it’s showcasing new and established talents alike. “I don’t know if there’s another label that’s doing what I’m doing,” ERNEST explains. “I truly believe this label will compete and be a staple in Nashville, Tennessee, and I think this city could probably use a little refresh. To get back to some artist development and really watering the songwriting culture. “DeVille Records is here and we’re going to make a splash,” he goes on. “I feel like now’s the perfect time for me to do it.”

Country Swag Picks: 

  1. Another Thing To Love – ERNEST & Miranda Lambert
  2. Get Her Name – Rhys Rutherford
  3. Whatever Happened to Us – Chandler Walters
  4. TV On – Cody Lohen

Cadillac Sessions Tracklist:

  1. Gettin’ Gone (feat. Snoop Dogg) – ERNEST
  2. Get Her Name – Rhys Rutherford
  3. Tail Light, Porch Light, Miller Lite – Cody Lohden
  4. Whatever Happened To Us – Chandler Walters
  5. Turn Me Up – ERNEST
  6. Worth The Trouble – Chandler Walters
  7. Another Thing To Love (feat. Miranda Lambert) – ERNEST
  8. TV On – Cody Lohden
  9. Did It Anyway – ERNEST
  10. Southern Belle – Rhys Rutherford
  11. Help Me Make It Through The Night – ERNEST
  12. One More Last Chance – Chandler Walters
  13. Gentle On My Mind – Rhys Rutherford
  14. Two Dozen Roses – Cody Lohden
  15. Yesterday’s Wine (feat. Jake Worthington) – ERNEST
  16. Song Of The South – ERNEST, Cody Lohden, Rhys Rutherford, Chandler Walters
ernest-cadillac-sessions

On the debut release from ERNEST’s new record label, DeVille Records, the star introduces Chandler Walters, Rhys Rutherford, and Cody Lohden.

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

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

Cadillac Sessions is 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.

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Blake Shelton Earns Number One At Country Radio with “Texas”

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Blake Shelton goes number one on country radio with his single, “Texas.” Get all the details here.

Over his multiple decade career, Blake Shelton has put out hit after hit, while simultaneously becoming a household name both in country music and the entertainment world in general. Today, Shelton follows up his collaborative number one with Post Malone with another number one song! His latest single, “Texas” is officially the top song on the country charts this week!

“Texas” marks Shelton’s debut for his new label home, BBR MUSIC GROUP/BMG NASHVILLE and Wheelhouse Records, making it even more special that the song hit the top of the charts. Written by Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr, and Lalo Guzman finds a man grappling with the emotions of being left alone, after a free-spirited woman leaves for most likely, Texas. The song is charming, thought-provoking, and a perfect song for Shelton to add to his catalog.

“She ain’t my girl // (“Where she been?”) I ain’t quite sure // Good question, no tellin’, but I’m bettin’ // She’s probably in Texas // Amarillo, all I know // George Strait said it // Yeah, that’s where all them exes go // If she ain’t with me out here in Tennessee // Then I don’t know where she’s headed // If I’m guessin’, I reckon // She’s probably in Texas // She’s probably in Texas”

Congrats to Blake Shelton and his team on his number one single!

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

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

“Texas” 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.

Clever Adds New Song “Undressed” To His Music Catalog

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Clever shares brand new song, “Undressed” out now, May 2nd, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

Every so often, an artist emerges who truly embodies the essence of the word “artist.” Singer-songwriter Clever is one of those rare talents. His music effortlessly transcends genres while staying deeply rooted in the rich storytelling tradition that country music is known for. Today, he expands his growing catalog with the release of his new song, “Undressed”

“Undressed” is a sexy, flirty song hidden in a feel-good tempo. Fueled by passion and romance, Clever delivers a catchy and fun new song for fans to listen to again and again. The song’s poetic lyrics capture what it feels like to be so into the person you’re with.

“Well the phone kept ringing but I could not answer // Tangled in the sheets she’s a ballet dancer / And these hands started misbehaving // And I said baby we can wait til the honeymoon // We can take it slow like a rose in bloom // Or rip it off fast like a motel room if you want to // But I wanna see you undressed // But baby I won’t ask unless you’ll let me // I wanna see you undressed // Lord I must confess // You and me and your hair in a mess, baby I’m ready”

“Undressed” is something special. If you’re not already a fan of Clever, now’s the time to start, his music truly lives up to the hype.

clever-undressed

Clever shares his brand new song, “Undressed,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with Clever, follow him on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

“Undressed” 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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Colin Stough Shares Brand New Song “White Trash”

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Colin Stough shares brand new song, “White Trash” out now, May 2nd, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

Since impressing fans everywhere on American Idol, Colin Stough has focused on leaning into his one-of-kind country-rock sound. The singer-songwriter has honed his talent and garnered more and more fans along the ride. Today, the artist releases his newest single, “White Trash.”

Written by Stough with Jamie Collazo and Kenny Whitmire, “White Trash” is an anthem for the misunderstood. Referred to as a “battle cry for the outcast” in a recent press release, the new song showcases Stough’s gritty and piercing vocals. “White Trash” unapologetically captures how the feeling of confidence; despite, what naysayers may say.

“I went to jail on a Sunday // When I was supposed to be at church // I got let out on a Monday // Yeah I’ a little late to work // Yeah I could use some education // My soul could use some savin’ // There ain’t no sense in prayin’ for me now // I ain’t changin’ my ways // I’m nothin’ but white trash // You can kiss my ass // Yeah I know I’m down bad // Nothing but a red flag // You know I kinda like it like that // I guess I’m white trash”

“White Trash” is an awesome addition to Stough’s growing catalogl. If you’re not already a fan of the artist, what are you waiting for?!

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Colin Stough shares new song, “White Trash,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with Colin Stough, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

“White Trash” 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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Who Is Sterling Drake? The Story Behind His Journey to Country Music

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

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Sterling Drake // Photo credit: Alice Loayza

Quick Facts:

Full name – Sterling Drake
Birthdate – 07/20/1995
Hometown – Big Cypress, Florida
Current city – Philipsburg, Montana
Musical influences – Willie Nelson, Paul Brady, Roger Miller, Keith Whitley
Label – Calusa Music / Missing Piece
Current Song – “In My Dreams” (as of date of article: 4/28/2025)
The Beginning:

This week’s spotlight shines on a singer-songwriter, who is a true artist in every sense of the world. While chatting with Sterling Drake, we learned how connected he is to music, as well as, how important his passionate to him. Keep reading to learn more.

“I was born in South Florida. My father’s family has a ranch down there. That was kind of my origin,” began the singer. “I live in Montana now, I made a home here, but my path was not very linear, I spent time living in the country, but we moved around a lot as a kid. We went all around a lot for my father’s work. We landed in the Northeast, and we’ve been in the south and out west. There were moments of my life that were more urban and moments of my life that were more country.”

Despite his unorthodox upbringing, Drake recalls music always being an important confidant for him throughout every stage of his life. “Music has always been around. It was more of a language to me than anything. It’s an area of intelligence for me. […] Music is kind of the lens that I see the world through. […] Oftentimes I get asked about how I balance multiple passions, and I really don’t see them at odds. Music is the language that I speak and my lens in the world, and no matter what I’m doing that’s the way I’m going to portray it. If I’m traveling or observing anything in the world, music is the way I’m going to experience it and ultimately the way that I’m going to convey.”

While his roots in country music ran deep, thanks to grandfather who introduced him to artists like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, Drake found himself loving all sorts of music. “I think one of my earliest memories was my grandfather dancing with grandmother begrudgingly to “Good Hearted Woman” in the kitchen. It was always around,” he shared, adding, “I spent time listening to punk music in high-school and playing drums, and I rode a skateboard, and I’m a product of this generation. I think I have a little bit more dimension than that. I inevitably pursued a life that wasn’t naturally presented to me. Ranching and music were both goals that I wanted to achieve for myself.”

The Turning Point:

Drake nurtured his love for music throughout his life. “I was also pursuing music as a drummer and a songwriter, and toured in a ton of different bands pretty much since high-school. It was always a steady thing for me,” he shared. “My guitar entered my life, and I found my father’s guitar in a crawl space once, and I was like “what is this.” I had no idea that my father was cool, and he played guitar, so it was a relic from his college days, but he taught me just enough to get going, some Hank Williams. […] I think traditional country has been a big love for me, and a big home for music, but I really like to look at if from a broader lens of American music, American songwriting.”

Right out of high-school, the singer-songwriter decided to pursue his multi-dimensional passion of both artistry and ranching, following the footsteps of grandfather. “He had a ranch and raised cattle, and spent time out west, and Florida had a big ranching community out there, but it’s kinda isolated, so I made the attempt to pursue that in my early twenties, and I moved out here. Right out of high-school, and eventually landed here in Montana, and it’s become a home for me.”

While in Montana, Drake continued to scratch the undeniable itch for ranching, while simultaneously, continuing to craft music, writing songs, and pursue music to the best of his ability. Eventually in 2019, he decided that he needed to try out Nashville, Tennessee.

“I kind of had a realization that if I wanted to do anything farther with music, it get kind of a like a dream of mine that wasn’t getting enough nurture, so I moved to Nashville for a whole year, I tried it out, and I moved into a house. […] I was interning at a publishing house, I was writing songs for folks, and I was fronting a band as a singer, I was on Broadway, drumming for anyone who needed a drummer, I really tried to make a go of it, and then obviously COVID hit in 2020, and I returned to Montana.”

Today:

Flash forward to today, the time Drake spent in Nashville was an important time that signified that he could do all the things he loved. He continues to split time between Montana and Tennessee, and now his debut full-length project is officially coming out on May 2nd.

The Shape I’m In features fourteen uniquely crafted songs that speak to the singer’s incredible talent and artistry. “It was produced in Nashville and recorded there at the Bomb Shelter by Thor Davidson, who’s a great friend of mine, band member, and multi-instrumentalist in Nashville. He spent time on the road with me, kind of shaping thee songs, and my story, and the places that I’ve gone. I think it helped really tie it all together,” he began. “There’s songs that are more abstract, and talk more existential topics and themes that I’ve kind of faced throughout my adolescence and my twenties, and now as I’m almost thirty. The themes kind of range a lot. They talk about my pursuit of traveling and being lost in certain points, and finding redemption in the journey, and finding yourself, and present more questions than they answer,” shared the singer when asked about the album.

Songs like “She Means Everything to Me” and “In My Dreams” showcase different sides of the singer’s story so far. The former showcases the duality between finding the love of your life young, and also still trying to grapple with the insecurities of growing up. “It’s equally showing that you’re not sure where you’re going, and also your adoration for somebody who’s willing to stick with you through the world.” The latter is a true testament to following your dreams even when it’s tough.

The Shape I’m In is rooted in the full gamut of landscapes that country music, American music has brought to the table. “It’s definitely a record that you want to listen to all the way through and listen to it on vinyl and put it on, on analog speakers.” Drake is an artist who creates poetry to music and brings his duel-loves together. To catch the singer at a show or support the incredible Montana festival, ‘Old Salt Festival,’ head to the singer’s website here.

Connect:

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

To keep up with Sterling Drake follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Sterling Drake’s music 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.

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Cole Swindell Goes Number One at Country Radio with “Forever To Me”

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Cole Swindell hits the number one spot on the country radio chart this week with his current single, “Forever To Me.” Learn more here…

Since bursting on to the music scene with his artist debut, “Chillin’ It,” singer-songwriter, Cole Swindell has won the hearts of country fans everywhere. Time and time again, the singer creates infectious tunes that we just cannot get enough of, while sprinkling in personal songs that pull at our heartstrings. Today, one of Swindell’s most heartfelt songs to date, “Forever To Me” marks his thirteenth number one song at country radio.

Written by Swindell, Greylan James, and Rocky Block, “Forever To Me” is a ballad sharing the singer’s love for his wife, Courtney Little. He shares how she is an answered prayer after he waited patiently for a special someone to come into his life.

“She gave 18 summers to Carolina // Spent a few more wild and free // Gave a long shot chance to a Georgia boy in Tennessee // I gave a promise to her daddy // And a grass stain to my knee // I might’ve gave her the diamond, but she gave forever to me // Well, there ain’t no dancin’ ’round it // When your whole world standin’ there // Just ’cause we’ve talked about it // Didn’t mean I wasn’t scared // And right there where I met her // Yeah, I showed her the ring // Just waitin’ on her answer, Lord, felt like forever to me”

A huge congratulations goes out to Cole Swindell and his team on landing their twelfth number-one single! To learn more about the singer’s number one songs, click here.

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Cole Swindell hits the number one spot on the country radio charts with “Forever To Me.”

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Cole Swindell announcements and releases.

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

“Forever To Me” 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.

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John Morgan: ‘Carolina Blue’ – Debut Album Review

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John Morgan shares his brand new debut album, Carolina Blue, out now on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new project here.

Singer-songwriter John Morgan is ready to step into the forefront as an artist with the release of his debut album, Carolina Blue, out now. For the rising star, who has amassed a multitude of top ten hits as a writer, his debut full-length project shows him on the verge of stardom.

Signed to Jason Aldean’s Night Train Records imprint through BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Morgan’s debut features twelve new songs. He co-wrote the dozen tracks alongside Nashville hitmakers like Will Bundy, Tyler Hubbard, Tully Kennedy, Ben Hayslip and more. The Carolina native also played guitar on every song on the LP, which was produced by John and Brent Anderson.

Born and raised in the small town of Sylva, NC, Morgan grew up playing guitar and travelling with his family playing bluegrass music. He eventually transferred those skills to songwriting, making his way to Nashville in 2019 and immediately emerging as a powerful force in the community. “One of the blessings of being a songwriter first is that you write so many different things that your catalog becomes very broad. I’ve explored all kinds of sounds and in doing that it helped me eliminate what I’m not,” Morgan revealed in a statement.

Throughout the LP, Morgan stays true to his country roots, sliding effortlessly from rousing uptempo tunes to impassioned ballads, all with a unique lyrical style. “I try to hold a standard of making sure every line counts lyrically and then once you’ve got that you can be super creative on the sound part of it,” He says. “Hopefully that comes through in this album.”

The album roars in immediately with its opening track, “Way Out Would,” a muddy and twangy celebration of country living that pairs roaring electric guitars with twang before building to an energetic climax. Likewise, Morgan’s recent number one hit is the rousing “Friends Like That,” which pairs him with Aldean. On the bromance anthem, the pair trade verses about relying on good friends in tough times.

“I’m doing alright for the shape // I’m in Sitting by the fire with some damn good friends // Willie on my left, Jack on my right // Blowin’ that smoke on a Friday night //  Waylon turned up on the JBL // Girl, you probably think I’m going through hell // But I don’t care if you never come back  // ‘Cause who needs you when I got friends like that?”

“Crickets” provides a moment of levity, a bouncing summer anthem that’s perfect for barbecues and bonfires. “It’s a very catchy song,” he says of the playful track. “You’ve got to have some meatier songs with some strong messages, but you’ve also got to have something that’s fun, something that has a really solid lyric and storyline and that feels good.”

While Morgan can roar through an uptempo or a summer romp with the best of them, he truly shines on anthemic, building ballads. This includes the gorgeous “One More Sunset,” which finds him promising his last moments to someone special. Alternatively, “Kid Myself” finds him dealing with the fallout of a relationship that was never meant to last, while “She’ll Always Be” is a gorgeous sun-soaked heartbreak ballad about the one who got away.

Morgan is increasingly romantic on songs like the swoonworthy  “A Lot To Say About You,” and the midtempo new perspective of “I Know Better.”

“Cause I know better days // Better nights A better way of living lost in your eyes // Up on cloud nine feeling things I thought I’d never // There ain’t no better smile // Ain’t no better kiss // Ain’t a memory I’ve made that compares to this // I thought the best part of my life was in the past forever But now that I know you I know better // Ooh baby, I know better”

Much of the Carolina native’s album finds him longing for home, evidenced on songs like the title track (“I’m doin’ fine, but tonight I’m kinda Carolina blue”), the soulful “Long Ride Home,” and “Without ‘Em,” a poignant celebration of the working class.  “You won’t ever see their names in lights, Most people just pass’ em on by,” He sings of the people who make the world what it is. “Might not think too much about ‘em, but this world wouldn’t turn without ‘em.”

Carolina Blue ends with “How to Get Her,” a catchy uptempo that finds him musing about knowing how to get a girl, but not knowing how to get her back after a breakup. It’s clever turns of lyrics like that that elevate John Morgan’s music above the pack, while the song builds to a great instrumental section that’s perfect for a live show.

“I hope there’s relatability in how I write,” Morgan says of the album. “I don’t try to be anything I’m not. I’ve never been good at that, and I think people can snuff that out pretty quick. I hope these songs give people a message that there’s value in whatever they are doing. Hopefully, people will just feel their worth.”

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Long Ride Home
  2. Friends Like That
  3. I Know Better
  4. How to Get Her
  5. Crickets

Carolina Blue Tracklist:

  1. Way Out Would (John Morgan, Will Bundy, Randy Montana)
  2. Long Ride Home (John Morgan, Tully Kennedy, Kurt Allison, Lydia Vaughan)
  3. Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean) (John Morgan, Brent Anderson, Will Bundy, Lydia Vaughan)*                                                                       
  4. One More Sunset (John Morgan, Will Bundy, Michael Dulaney)
  5.  Know Better (John Morgan, Rocky Block, Will Bundy, Lydia Vaughan)
  6. She’ll Always Be (John Morgan, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Lydia Vaughan)
  7. Carolina Blue (John Morgan, Smith Ahnquist, Will Bundy, Jeb Gipson)
  8. Kid Myself (John Morgan, Tyler Hubbard, Jordan Schmidt)
  9. Crickets (John Morgan, Zach Abend, Lydia Vaughan)
  10. A Lot To Say About You (John Morgan, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, John Edwards)
  11. Without ‘Em (John Morgan, Austin Goodloe, Ben Hayslip)
  12. How To Get Her (John Morgan, Brent Anderson, Will Bundy, Hunter Phelps)
john-morgan-carolina-blue

John Morgan shares his debut album, ‘Carolina Blue,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with John Morgan, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. 

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

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Tucker Wetmore: ‘What Not To’ – Debut Album Review

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Tucker Wetmore shares his brand new debut album, What Not To, out now on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new project here.

For Tucker Wetmore, his debut album, What Not To, reflects on the pivotal moments in life that have crafted him into the person he’s still becoming. “What Not To is an album that talks about living. It’s a diary of life and what you can take away from it, if you allow yourself to learn,” he shares. “There’s no such thing as a bad experience or a bad time. It’s all just an opportunity to grow.”

For the Washington native, those experiences are on full display throughout the LP’s 19 tracks, laden with heartbreak, heartache, new love, joy, and everything in between. Wetmore co-wrote on 11 of the album’s tracks, enlisting additional contributions from Nashville writers including Tucker Beathard, Chase McGil, Jameson Rodgers, Jordan Reynolds, and more. Produced by Chris LaCorte, the album weaves through various stories that Wetmore describes “like red yarn connecting a bunch of pins on a wall.”

The album kicks off its story with “Whatcha Think Is Gonna Happen,” a moody midtempo that finds Wetmore battling with his own vices and temptations. Over a catchy beat, he admits, “It ain’t all that complicated, I just can’t turn down temptation.” Battling those external and internal demons becomes a prevalent theme in Wetmore’s story, as he deals with the bottle and his own generational traumas throughout his relationships.

 

On songs like the summer-ready “Bad Luck Looks Good On Me” and the catchy “Casino,” the 25-year-old warns a woman not to gamble on him admitting that love is a lot like a game of chance. “Casino” is a clear standout on the record, pairing a catchy hook with even catchier lyrics. 

“​​She’s a casino I’m a stone-cold joker that keeps on throwing dice //  Spinning a wheel putting it all on red but the house wins every time //  Queen of breaking my heart been counting my cards   // I should get up and leave but I won’t //  I’m a sucker for another hand // And one more dance with this damn casino”

“Brunette” is a gallop of a song, taking listeners on a journey through Wetmore’s psyche with its clever metaphor to his own battle with anxiety in relationships. In fact, the music’s near franticity crafts an incredible scene that could easily be used in a movie or TV soundtrack.

The album’s title track may be the most personal on the album, a sparse reflection of a broken family and an absentee father, as Wetmore longs to break the cycle and be a better man. “I gotta admit I don’t know what to do,” He muses, voice laced with emotion. “But thanks to you I know what not to.”

“That was one of the toughest songs I’ve ever written, but also one of the easiest too, because it just kind of fell out onto the paper,” Wetmore says of the title track. “I write from experiences, feeling, and emotion, and it often comes from a higher power that I really don’t understand. That’s how writing that song felt.”

While Wetmore shines on heartache, he can also craft a radio-ready earworm. This is evidenced on songs like “3,2,1,” “Break First,” and the sun-drenched “Silverado Blue.” While “Break First” is a super catchy ode to an opposites attract relationship, “Takes One to Break One” finds him looking for a new habit to help him break an old one.

“When I Ain’t Looking” is a gorgeous ballad about finding love when you’re least expecting it, while “Give Her The World” is an ode to a girl who’s on the receiving end of his love, and can’t quite accept it. Likewise, the mega-hit “Wind Up Missin’ You” is a breezy and thrumming ballad about an instantaneous connection that may lead to heartbreak if it doesn’t work out.

“You look like waves on a sunset //  And you can crash on me all night // You look like wine in a truck bed // A little what I’m doing for the rest of my life cause // You look like I’m done looking  But girl the hard truth is // If this night don’t turn into two //  You look like I’m gonna wind up missin’ you”

Much of the album is soaked in whiskey, with Wetmore wondering if it’s the cause of his relationship problems. Things are on and off on songs like “Whiskey Again” and “Goodbye Whiskey,” which features a musical interlude that sounds straight out of a Coldplay anthem. Likewise, “Drinking Boots” finds him one shot away from calling an ex, while “Drunk on Her” finds him nearly addicted to a woman he can’t quite quit.

The album ends on a slower and introspective note with “Wine Into Whiskey” followed by “Whiskey Again.” While the former is a heartbreak ballad, it finds Wetmore accepting blame for being the heartbreaker in a relationship. “If I was her I’d damn sure hate me,” He sings, voice full of regret. “I turned her love into pain and her wine into whiskey.”

The album ends with “Whiskey Again,” a mournfully sparse ballad that finds him battling heartache at the bottom of a whiskey glass.  “Whiskey again // I swore that I was done with you // But here we are old friend,” he laments. “Misery misery // Misery’s what I’m in.”   

“I didn’t want this album to be just songs — I wanted them to be songs with purpose…” Wetmore says of the LP. “Music makes you feel something. When I was going through things as a kid, I turned to music and it didn’t let me down. I hope What Not To does the same for everyone who listens.” 

We’re pretty sure it will do just that.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Casino
  2. 3,2,1
  3. Break First
  4. When I Ain’t Lookin’
  5. Brunette

What Not To Tracklist:

  1. Whatcha Think Is Gonna Happen? (Matt Jenkins, Ben Stennis, Michael Tyler)
  2. 3,2,1 (Josh Miller, Summer Overstreet, Jordan Reynolds)
  3. Bad Luck Looks Good On Me (Tucker Wetmore, Julian Bunetta, Jackson Foote, Jaxson Free, Steph Jones)
  4. Casino (Josh Jenkins, Alex Palmer, John Pierce and Michael Tyler)
  5. Takes One To Break One (Matt Jenkins, Josh Miller, Ben Stennis)
  6. Brunette (Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Josh Miller, Blake Pendergrass)
  7. Wind Up Missin’ You (Tucker Wetmore, Thomas Archer, Chris LaCorte)
  8. Give Her The World (Tucker Wetmore, Madison Kozak, Chase McDaniel)
  9. Goodbye Whiskey (Tucker Wetmore, Thomas Archer, Ross Copperman, Jacob Hackworth)
  10. When I Ain’t Lookin’ (Austin Goodloe, Thomas Archer, Michael Tyler, Tucker Beathard)
  11. Drink Alone (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)
  12. Bad Habit (Tucker Wetmore, Corey Crowder, Chris LaCorte, Jameson Rodgers)
  13. What Not To (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)
  14. Break First (Michael Tyler, Matt Roy, Lauren Hungate, Matt Dragstrem)
  15. Drinkin’ Boots (Demo) (Tucker Wetmore, Jared Keim, Michael Lotten)
  16. Drunk On Her (Jaxson Free, Gabe Foust, Jacob Hackworth, Chris Tompkins)
  17. Silverado Blue (Tucker Wetmore, Brett Sheroky, Dan Wilson)
  18. Wine Into Whiskey (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Justin Ebach)
  19. Whiskey Again (Tucker Wetmore, Jacob Hackworth, Chris LaCorte, Chase McGill, Jameson Rodgers)
tucker-wetmore-casino

Tucker Wetmore releases debut album, “What Not To,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with Tucker Wetmore, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

What Not To is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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Lanie Gardner Shares New Song “Concrete Cowboy”

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Lanie Gardner shares new song, “Concrete Cowboy” out now, April 25th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new song below.

Rising star Lanie Gardner continues to make her mark on the world. With millions of views across social media and streaming platforms, her powerful voice and unique vibe have already captivated fans. Since bursting on to the scene, Gardner has garnered a loyal fanbase, who beg for each and every release. Today, fans finally get a song that has been a long time coming. “Concrete Cowboy” is officially out now!

“Concrete Cowboy” is an incredible country song. The song is a full immersion into the emotion of storytelling (that country music does the best). Throughout the song, Gardner questions a heartbreaker about why he led a girl on. The song is raw, honest, and real. While many songs are created because of heartbreak, “Concrete Cowboy” is a song that’s going to make a lasting impression.

“Tell me was it worth it to break my heart // Concrete cowboy // Shouldn’t have loved her if you didn’t know how boy // Pulled a wild flower out of southern ground // and watched the color fade out // Fell for those city lights in your eyes // But she couldn’t survive the heart of // concrete cowboy”

Lanie Gardner is the real day! The songstress is primed for even more success heading into the rest of this year. Make sure to download “Concrete Cowboy” ASAP!

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Lanie Gardner shares “Concrete Cowboy,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with Lanie Gardner, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Concrete Cowboy” 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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Dylan Marlowe + Conner Smith Share New Song “Country In The Clouds”

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Dylan Marlowe and Conner Smith share brand new song, “Country In The Clouds,” out now, April 25th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new track below.

Time and time again, we share how awesome country music collaborations are. Today’s country collaboration fits the bill! Rising artists, Dylan Marlowe and Conner Smith join forces on a brand new single called, “Country In The Clouds.”

Both Marlowe and Smith celebrate their country upbringing on “Country In The Clouds.” The introspective new song features comparisons to the country fields to heaven. The singer-songwriters yearn for a country-like lifestyle after God calls them home. “Country In The Clouds” feels like a special song with a lot of meaning for the young artists.

“I know the Bible says that it’s as perfect as can be // Is it a sin to wish there’s a couple deer stands in the trees // Yeah, I hope there’s country in the clouds // I hope my side of heaven feels just like a little town // When it’s my time and they lay me down // The good old boy in me just hopes there’s country in the clouds // Hallelujah // Hallelujah”

As the country music genre expands, it is always nice to see two young, budding artists bring story-telling and honest lyrics to the forefront of country music.

Dylan-marlowe-conner-smith

Dylan Marlowe and Conner Smith collaborate on brand new song, “Country In The Clouds.”

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

To keep up with Dylan Marlowe, follow him on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook.

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

“Country In The Clouds” 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.