Blog Archives

Home Free Releases New Single & Video for “Dive Bar Saints”

May 22, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

Photo Credit: Olenna Noelle

Talented vocals-only country group, Home Free, comprised of five vocalists have big plans for the second half of the year. Mostly known for releasing a cappella covers of songs, the group has recently announced their plans for their new project. Their fifth studio album, Dive Bar Saints is in the works, complete with ten original songs and two covers of classic country tracks, slated to drop this July. For right now, Home Free gives us a peek into their album, releasing the title track accompanied by an alluring music video.

Just like the song’s title, the music video paints a picture of a dive bar being Home Free’s own type of church, inviting anyone to come join them. The video is fun and relatable as clips of each group member having a different role in the bar, including singing karaoke, bartending, playing pool are showcased; however, the message of the song is still pure and inviting.

“It’s a place to heal and place to hurt / After a long week of hell it’s like Sunday church / You’ll hear dirty jokes and the gospel truth / The jukebox choir singing in the corner booth / We’re here every weekend bring your burdens, bring your pain / everybody’s welcome a the church of the dive bar saints / Yeah the dive bar saints.”

Their killer vocals and ability to use their voices to act as instruments is on full display in the imagery. The uniqueness that Home Free possesses is one of the reasons we spotlighted the vocalists back in 2018 and why we’re excited for the release of their next record. Read our interview with the group here.

The men of Home Free are gearing up to head out on their ‘Dive Bar Saints World Tour’ this fall, kicking off in Fresno California on September 18th. The tour hits the New York area on November 10th at Town Hall, but first, the group will be performing at CMA Fest this June. For tickets and more information, head to homefreemusic.com.

To keep up with Home Free, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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12 Country Songs You Will Recognize The Instant They Come On

May 22, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

With music at our fingertips these days, most of us have 1000’s of songs in our music library, and tons of playlists downloaded, but it’s those songs we recognize the moment they begin that we have on replay over and over again. Because of that, we decided to compile a list of some of the catchiest country songs that you know from the second the music starts.

“Rules of Breaking Up”- Brandon Ratcliff

This song gave us the idea for the list because of its clever and enticing guitar solo that starts the track. “Rules of Breaking Up” is Ratcliff’s debut single that is currently climbing the charts. It’s a song that after a few listens, you will be hooked and recognize it instantly!

“Whiskey Glasses”- Morgan Wallen

Wallen’s second consecutive number 1 single, “Whiskey Glasses” is a jam. His wordplay sets the mood for the track right away, as he sings “Poor me, pour me another drink.” The beginning lyric instantly makes you want to stop what you’re doing, and sing along to the song at the top of your lungs.

“Drunk Me”- Mitchell Tenpenny

Tenpenny’s number 1 debut single, “Drunk Me” is one of the catchiest songs released last year. The opening instrumentals will catch your attention right away, and have you gearing up to sing the first verse, “Some people don’t know when to quit…”

“Before He Cheats”- Carrie Underwood

Superstar Carrie Underwood has an impressive catalog of hit songs, but it’s her single, “Before He Cheats” off her debut album Some Hearts that makes our list. The killer instrumentals, featuring guitars and banjos, stops you in your tracks and as you get ready to sing the revengeful lyrics.

“Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”- Shania Twain

Shania Twain, another powerful woman in the industry, delivers the next song on our list with, “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” Even before the iconic “Let’s go girls” lyric, you know the song is about to start, when you hear the opening music. The hard-hitting instrumentals are just as recognizable as the memorable lyrics.

“Friends in Low Places”- Garth Brooks

Another ‘90s jam, “Friends in Low Places” by megastar Garth Brooks is arguably one of the biggest country songs of all time. All country fans know when this song begins, as the soft piano introduction is iconic. Of course, Brooks’ voice is just as mesmerizing and recognizable. This is definitely the ultimate sing-along song at parties, bars, and live shows.

“Need You Now”- Lady Antebellum

The simple piano arrangement and voiceover that starts the Lady Antebellum hit, “Need You Now” is why this song makes the list. Their number 1 song is a heartbreaking ballad that Hillary Scott and Charles Kelley pour their hearts into through the vocals. As soon as the song starts, you will instantly recognize the painfully beautiful lyrics that are about to begin.

“This Is How We Roll”- Florida Georgia Line (feat. Luke Bryan)

Florida Georgia Line’s debut album, Here’s to the Good Times is filled with hit songs, but its “This Is How We Roll” featuring, Luke Bryan that makes the cut. The song is a windows down, blasting through your car speakers type of song from the moment the instrumentals begin. Right away, you will gear up to scream the catchy lyrics alongside the FGL boys.

“Ladies in the ‘90s’- Lauren Alaina

Songstress Lauren Alaina recently released an uptempo song entitled “Ladies in the ‘90s.” The track will catch your attention, as the introductory instrumentals mixed with the looped “na na na na na” will get you hooked instantly. Of course, Alaina’s catchy first verse adds to the recognizability of the track. “I was born in ’94 / Daddy drove a beat-up Ford / Mama made it run on love and music.”

“It Goes Like This”- Thomas Rhett

The slow and poignant beat drop at the beginning of Thomas Rhett’s song, “It Goes Like This” is why we included it in this list. The beginning instrumental packs a punch, and gets you ready to sing your heart out to the opening verse. The track is a popular one that’s often played on Broadway in Nashville, adding to the catchiness of the tune.

“What Hurts The Most”- Rascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts powerful song, “What Hurts the Most” is next up on our list. This song spans generations, as it was initially recorded by country artist, Mark Wills. The musical arrangement at the beginning of the Rascal Flatts version will captivate you right away, as it relates almost effortlessly to the lyrics.

“Tequila”- Dan + Shay

Rounding out our list is super-duo Dan + Shay’s groundbreaking single, “Tequila.” The track catapulted the duo to mainstream stardom and earned them many accolades. More importantly, the song will get stuck in your head, after just one listen. The combination of the musical arrangement and Shay’s opening vocals makes it one of the catchiest and most recognizable songs in country music right now.

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Lady Antebellum’s Haunting Visuals for “What If I Never Get Over You”

May 22, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

Just last week power trio, Lady Antebellum released their new single, “What If I Never Get Over You.” The new track is reminiscent of their 2011 hit, “Need You Now,” with emphasis on the powerful vocals and heartbreaking vulnerability that only Lady A can deliver. To elevate the lyrical message, they premiered a music video to go along with the single.

Directed by Sarah McColgan, the video portrays the broken relationship that both Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott sing about, as Dave Haywood adds the necessary melancholy instrumentation. Kelley and Scott trade verses, as images of memories of a broken relationship and the break-up, flash before our eyes. The trio and the actors portray the hurt and the anguish that is all too familiar when you’re missing the person you were once in a relationship with.

As Lady A shared via their Twitter, the song showcases “so many universal truths […] and really takes [them] back to [their] beginning as a band.” Both the song and the visuals are relatable for anyone who has tried to put their lives back together after suffering a heartbreak. Lady Antebellum effortlessly illustrate these emotions that run through past lovers minds in the enticing, but haunting new video.

Lady Antebellum will continue playing shows across the United States throughout the summer. The supergroup continues their Las Vegas residency, ‘Our Kind of Vegas’ at the Pearl Concert Theater with dates set for May and August. For tickets and more information, head to ladyantebellum.com.

To keep up with Lady Antebellum follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“What If I Never Get Over You” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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10 Reasons to Head to Taste of Country Music Festival

May 22, 2019/in Blog /by Rebekah Milsted

Festival season is in full swing, and we are only a few weeks away from the Taste of Country Music Festival. Are you on the fence about attending? Here are ten reasons that will help you change your mind.

1. Largest country music and camping festival in the Northeast

Country music is undoubtedly known for being popular in the south, but what about us Northeasterners? Taste of Country Music Festival recognizes our passion and love we have for the genre. It also gives fans who aren’t able to travel to Stage Coach or the CMA Fest an opportunity to have an experience of a lifetime.

2. Headliners
Taste Of Country is the best place to see all your favorites on the big stage. You don’t want to miss Keith Urban on Friday, Rascal Flatts on Saturday, and Little Big Town on Sunday to close out the festival.

3. Opening Acts
Before the headliners hit the stage each night, great opening acts will hit the ZYN stage each day. Friday the party starts at 3 PM. Saturday and Sunday it starts at 1 PM. Where else can you see these acts all in one place? We highlight some of our favorite new artists that you can’t miss here!
Brooks and Dunn
Brett Eldredge
Josh Turner
Michael Ray
LANCO
Walker Hayes
Morgan Wallen
Lindsay Ell
Runaway June
Tyler Rich
Brandon Lay
Ross Ellis
Adam Doleac

4. The mountain
The summer’s best party takes place on Hunter Mountain. What’s better than camping, your favorite artists, and picturesque mountains in the background? Absolutely nothing. Take our advice and hop on the ski lift for the most beautiful views of the entire festival.

5. Great food
When people think of camping, they think of not having a great variety of food to eat. That’s not the case at Taste of Country Music Festival! You’ll have the options of pizza, BBQ, Mexican, chicken fingers, and so much more! For your sweet tooth, there will be fried Oreos, ice cream, etc. The options are endless.

6. Meeting fellow country music fans
There are no better fans out there than those of country music. We know how to have a good time, look out for one another, and identify talent when we see it. Plus, there’s no greater bond than jamming out to your favorite artists with the people who share your passion.

7. Up and Coming Artists
The ZYN Stage is not the only place to see great talent! You’ll also have the opportunity to catch new talent at the Shiner Bock Tap House Stage throughout the weekend. Take a break from the heat, enjoy a drink, and listen to some great rising artists. When they make it big, you’ll be able to say you saw them first at TOC! Here’s who is on the schedule!
Lyssa Coulter
Annie Brobst
Jessica Lynn
McKenna Faith
Scarlett Drive
Ryan Hurd

8. Shopping
Before the acts hit the stage, make sure to visit the vendors for all of your festival gear, souvenirs, and more!

9. Memories to last a lifetime
Whether you go to the Taste of Music Festival every year or this will be your first time, you’ll be talking about this weekend for a long time!

10. New York Country Swag Booth
One of our favorite reasons to attend the Taste of Country Music festival is we get to be a part of it! We have the opportunity to set up shop with our best gear, host exclusive giveaways and meet and greets, and interview your favorite artists. Make sure to stop by and follow our social channels!

Taste of Country Music Festival will be here before you know it. What are you waiting for? Get your tickets here!

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Lee Brice Lyrics to Use As Instagram Captions

May 21, 2019/in Blog /by Kelly Cunningham

Lee Brice has some of the best songs including “Boy”, “Rumor” and “Parking Lot Party” and we’ve got the perfect lyrics for your Instagram captions when you get to see him live.

Here are some of our favorites below:

1. “There’s a rumor going ’round about me and you, stirring up our little town the last week or two” – Rumor

2. “If I was a single man, alone and out there on the loose, well I’d be looking for a woman like you” – Woman Like You

3. “I’m a member of a good timing crowd, we get rowdy, we get wild and loud” – Drinking Class

4. “Ain’t never too early, to light one up, fill up your cup” – Parking Lot Party

5. “Each town learned to love and hate us, I’m pretty sure they’re still talking ’bout us” – They Won’t Forget About Us

6. “Everybody’s got somebody, not just anybody, but the one that you can’t help who you love” – You Can’t Help Who You Love

7. “The night ain’t over yet and, man, I hope I get, to have a drink with the locals tonight” – Locals

8. “The best part of me, part of me is you” – The Best Part Of Me

9. “Sometimes for living there ain’t no cure, and tomorrow damn sure ain’t for sure, so what do you say, let’s have a good day” – Have A Good Day

10. Dreaded morning don’t come, and these colors don’t wrong, stay up and stay on American nights” – American Nights

11. “I know you will, ’cause you’re apart of me // And apart of you will always be a boy.” – Boy

12.”I’d do anything with you anywhere, yes, you got me in the palm of your hand, girl.” – I Don’t Dance

13.”Every bit of you is burning like a tattoo on my soul, I see you even with my eyes closed.” – Eyes Closed

14. “You’re like a Sunday morning, full of grace and full of Jesus.” – Hard To Love

15. “All my dreams came true, my songs took me far away.” – Songs in the Kitchen

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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. 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
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10 Rising Artists That You Can’t Miss at CMAFest

May 21, 2019/in Blog /by Nicole Bochinis

Nashville’s CMA Fest is right around the corner and thousands will be filling the streets of Music City one of the biggest country music festivals this summer. The best part about CMA Fest is that it offers a little bit of everything in various locations throughout downtown Nashville. No matter what kind of country music fan you are, there is something for you to enjoy. Aside from the old school country and mainstream country music that you hear on the radio, there are plenty of rising artists that are a must see. Every artist starts somewhere and to be able to witness the journey of an artist rising to the top is truly magical.

1. King Calaway – This Nashville based rising group was first introduced to our followers in January when we hosted their sold-out exclusive show here in NYC. Since then, their popularity has been rising immensely. Their debut single “World for Two” was the first song released from their debut self-titled EP and became the most added song at country radio. King Calaway will be at CMA June 6th, at the HGTV Lodge and the Firestone Country Roads Stage at Ascend Amphitheater. They will also be performing on the Maui Jim Broadway Stage at Bridgestone Plaza on Saturday, June 8th.

Listen: World for Two

Stay Connected: @KingCalaway

2. Seaforth- One of our Swag Spotlights of 2019, this Australian country duo featuring Mitch Thompson and Tom Jordan, are already stealing the hearts of country music fans everywhere. The duo has been friends for over two decades and making music together for what they say ‘seems like forever’. They co-wrote all four songs on their debut EP, including their debut single “Love That” which was added to country radio stations earlier this week. You can catch Seaforth at CMA Fest on Friday, June 7th, at the Chevy Breakout Stage.

Listen: Love That

Stay Connected: @WeAreSeaforth

3. Adam Hambrick– This country newcomer is making a name for himself in the country music industry. The talented singer and songwriter is finding success after the release of his radio single “Rockin’ All Night” and his newly released song “All You, All Night, All Summer.” Hambrick’s smooth vocals and good vibes are a must listen during CMA Fest. You can catch him at the Firestone Country Roads Stage at Ascend Amphitheater on June 7th and on June 9th at the Maui Jim Broadway Stage at Bridgestone Plaza.

Listen: All You, All Night, All Summer

Stay Connected: @AdamHambrick

4. Filmore– This Missouri native has been on the Nashville scene for a few years now and is currently on the rise in the music industry. Filmore was named one of our 2019 Artists to Watch, and if you have not listened to him yet, you are missing out on his undeniable swagger. His cool R&B vibes mixed with country storytelling is what sets him apart from the rest. Some of his hits include “Slower,” “Love That About You,” and “Heart’s Having a Hard Time.” If you are interested in checking him out during CMA Fest, you can catch him on June 8th, at the Chevy Breakout Stage.

Listen: Love That About You

Stay Connected: @FilmoreMusic

5. Brandon Ratcliff– This Louisiana native was our first Swag Spotlight of 2019 and one of our 2019 Artists to Watch. His R&B styled country music is taking the music industry by storm. Ratcliff’s debut single “Rules of Breaking Up” has garnered over 3 million streams on Spotify and is a song that most people can relate to but can also interpret differently. Ratcliff also just came off the Miss Me More tour where he opened up for Kelsea Ballerini and Brett Young. Make sure to check him out on June 8th, at the Chevy Breakout Stage during CMA Fest.

Listen: Rules of Breaking Up

Stay Connected: @BrandonRatcliff

6. Matt Stell– This country newcomer is one of our Swag Spotlights of 2018 and we also hosted him for a Swag Session last summer. He is still receiving praise for his breakout single “Prayed For You” and just released another track “Everywhere But On”. His next EP is set to be released later this week. Stell’s voice is truly amazing and you don’t want to miss seeing him at CMA Fest. You can check him out on June 6th at the Chevy Breakout Stage.

Listen: Prayed for You

Stay Connected: @MattStellMusic

7. Gabby Barrett – If you haven’t heard of Gabby Barrett, she placed third on American Idol season 16. She released her first single “I Hope” at the beginning of the year and she is truly making a name for herself in the industry with a strong voice and powerful lyrics. Country music radio needs more female power and she fits perfectly in that category. You can check her out during CMA Fest on June 6th at the Maui Jim Broadway Stage at Bridgestone Plaza.

Listen: I Hope

Stay Connected: @GabbyBarrett_

8. Lainey Wilson– BBR Music Group’s, Lainey Wilson is a force in the country music genre. She recently opened up for Morgan Wallen on his “If I Know Me Tour” and was a part of CMT’s Next Women of Country class of 2019. Her songs and performances are straightforward and full of raw emotion. Check her out on June 8th at the Maui Jim Broadway Stage at Bridgestone Plaza during CMA Fest.

Listen: Waste of Good Whiskey

Stay Connected: @LaineyWilsonMusic

9. Ingrid Andress– We first introduced Ingrid Andress back in February at an exclusive showcase and we have been loving her ever since. Andress is a lyrical genius, her relatable songwriting strong, and powerful voice are unique. She is a part of the new wave of female country music artists and her career is just getting started. To keep watching her blossom in the music industry, check her out at the Firestone Country Roads State at Ascend Amphitheater on June 8th.

Listen: Lady Like

Stay Connected: @IngridAndress

10. Muscadine Bloodline– Gary Stanton and Charlie Muncaster are natives of Mobile, Alabama and have been performing together since 2016. From the first time the duo ever took the stage, people has been catching on to how talented they are. Having two Billboard charting, critically acclaimed EP’s under their belts, these guys are on the way to even more success. With hits like “Movin’ On,” You on Me,” and “Montgomery” you are in for a treat when you see them live. Check them out on June 7th, at the Chevy Breakout Stage.

Listen: Movin’ On

Stay Connected: @MuscadineBline

Cover photo credit: Matthew Berinato

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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Blanco Brown Introduces ‘The Git Up’ and Trailer Trap Music

May 21, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

J. Kaviar

We are certain that you haven’t yet heard of Blanco Brown but by the end of summer, everyone will be doing ‘The Git Up’ at their backyard BBQs and tailgates. Brown split his childhood listening to hip hop in Atlanta and country music during the summers with his grandmother in Butler, GA. This singer-songwriter and producer works to combine both lifestyles and genres, collectively creating “Trailer Trap” part trailer park/part Trap music.

His debut single ‘The Git Up’ is not only the catchiest song we’ve heard in a while but also has a dance to go along with it that is already making its viral way across social media. Check out this news anchor from Charlotte, North Carolina doing the dance which has already garnered over 740k views.

This choreographed dance is super simple to learn but Brown posted a tutorial just last week, which will give you the chance to be the best at the dance moves before all of your friends. People are already learning ‘The Git Up’ and the videos across all social media platforms are garnering millions of views. The track is on Spotify’s Wild Country Playlist and fans can look forward to Brown’s debut EP which will be released on May 31st on Broken Bow Records. In the past, he has produced music in the hip-hop and pop world for Chris Brown, Fergie, and Pitbull.

It will be interesting to see how this new subgenre of country music is received, especially after the controversy and phenomenon that happened with “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X. Watch the video above and tag us in your version of ‘The Git Up’.

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

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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Jason Aldean Lyrics To Use As Instagram Captions

May 21, 2019/in Blog, Instagram Captions /by Erica Zisman

We decided to take a look back at Jason Aldean’s incredible catalog of songs and with eleven ACM wins, including multiple wins in the ‘Entertainer of the Year’ category, as well as, the recent win for “Dick Clark Artist of the Decade,” Aldean’s songs make the perfect backdrop to our Instagram photos. If you’re lucky enough to catch him on tour, we have the perfect lyrics for your Instagram posts!

Check out some of our favorites below:

1. “Let’s get this thing started. It’s my kinda party”- My Kinda Party

2. “I sit back and think about them good ol’ days, the way we were raised and our southern ways”- Dirt Road Anthem

3. “You’re my sunshine in the darkest days, my better half, my saving grace”- You Make It Easy

4. “When the lights come on, everybody’s screaming. Lights in the sky, yeah, everybody’s singing”- Lights Come On

5. “Yeah she’s the perfect shot of faith when every bit mine is gone”- When She Says Baby

6. “It sure left it’s mark on us, we sure left our mark on it. We let the world know we were here, with everything we did”- Tattoos on This Town

7. “We talked, and drank, and danced, and said goodbye; We laughed until we cried”- Laughed Until We Cried

8. “We got your country boys and your redneck girls, it’s the party heard round the world”- Hicktown

9. “I’m just doing my thing, you love it when I sing”- Burnin’ It Down

10. “That’s the way she was born and raised, she ain’t afraid to stay, country”- She’s Country

11. “Thought we were gone but you’re wrong, now it’s on, we back” – We Back

12. “Tattoos to remember, tequila to forget” – Tattoos and Tequila

13. “Drinking whiskey in a champagne town” – Champagne Town

14. “The old me before you belongs to the past” – Got What I Got

15. “Fallin’ for a rolled up flannel under the tailgate stars” – Camouflage Hat

If you are catching the shows, be sure to tag us in your posts for a chance to be featured on our Instagram!

NYCS Swag Spotlight: Kären McCormick

May 20, 2019/in Blog, Swag Spotlight /by Christina Bosch

Our Swag Spotlight this week is Kären McCormick, singer and songwriter born in Congo and grew up in Spokane, Washington. Her father who was in the Peace Corps was helping people learn how to filter their water where he met her mother and they fell in love. Growing up her parents listened to all types of music including Afro-pop but she specifically recalls hearing Taylor Swift sing “Tim McGraw” on the radio when she was 11 or 12 years old. Her mother listened to Faith Hill and she loved Brooks & Dunn but Swift’s songwriting really caught McCormick’s attention. “At the time I was really big on writing stories and then really big on music so I started begging my dad for a guitar,” she explains. When she was 13 years old, she finally was gifted her first guitar and she says she hasn’t put it down since. “I learned that Taylor [Swift] went to Nashville, so I begged my dad to take me there,” she recalls. “He made me a deal, before we would travel to Nashville I had to perform at least three times in public.”

It wasn’t easy to find places for a young girl to perform but finally, when she was 16 years old she saw a flier for ‘Spokane, Got Talent?’ competition. She auditioned, was picked out of fifteen other contestants by the judges, by singing The Band Perry’s “If I Die Young”. She was the top three, and after singing “Stay Beautiful”, by Taylor Swift the audience picked her to win. The following year, they did visit Nashville, she played an open mic night at The Bluebird Cafe and after that trip, she spent the next few years just waiting and wanting to get back to Music City. After getting her degree in Communications from Eastern Washington University, McCormick found herself back in Nashville interning and learning all about the music industry.

On a whim, while back home in Washington, she tweeted a video of her singing Walker Hayes’ song “Halloween” for a chance to win a meet and greet that night while he was on tour with Kelsea Ballerini. Hayes not only loved the video but messaged her and asked her to join him on stage that night. “When I got to the venue I was so nervous, I wanted to perform well, make the most of the invitation. He is just the nicest, had the best energy and is so great at making everyone feel comfortable,” she says of the singer-songwriter. “I am so grateful for the experience. For me, it is not just the opportunity to sing with someone like Walker [Hayes] but for someone to extend their stage to me, who isn’t signed, who they found on Twitter, it’s a stage he’s been working towards for so long, he just embodies kindness.”

Since being in Nashville, McCormick has released three songs that she has written, most recently “Dancing With Him Tonight”. She explains that she wrote the song before moving to Nashville, calling it a pre-Nashville song. “All writers have their pre-Nashville songs, and post-Nashville songs and its interesting to compare the two, to see how I changed as a writer after moving here.” The track will be the first on her debut EP which is slated for release later this summer.

McCormick explains how she wrote the song after going to a rodeo with her friends and seeing someone that she would have loved to dance with, even though she says she is a terrible dancer. “It’s more about taking a chance, getting out of your comfort zone, certain people make you want to do something like that, a person can bring that out of you,” she says of the song.

The EP will feature five songs all co-written or written by McCormick. She explains how she is still getting used to co-writing, learning how to compromise and give and take in a writers room since she is so used to writing songs alone back in Washington. She tells us how she loves that country artists are branching out and collaborating with other artists in other genres and growing up in Cameroon, Africa and listening to Afro-pop she would love to merge both genres in the future.

To keep up with Kären McCormick be sure to follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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Cody Johnson Brings Texas Country to Sold Out NYC Crowd

May 20, 2019/in Blog, Concert Reviews /by Shanna Vitaliano

Friday night, country music fans packed Irving Plaza in New York City for a rowdy night of traditional Texas country by none other than our Swag Session album Cody Johnson.

The opening act singer-songwriter Jobe Fortner, who is dubbed one of the hardest working guitarists from Monroe, Georgia kicked off the night. His powerful Stapleton-esque voice rocked Irving Plaza as he sang songs influenced by his southern rock background. Fortner told the crowd, “It’s damn good to be playing some country music in New York City tonight, and it feels real damn good coming from the south y’all, thank you for that.” He energized the crowd and set the stage for Johnson, and performed his brand new song “Wherever She Is.” Fortner definitely made a ton of new fans in New York City.

The much-anticipated part of the night came when former professional bull rider turned rising country superstar Cody Johnson took the stage to the sold-out Irving Plaza crowd. Johnson said, “New York, are you ready to get wild?” And that they were. Dedicated COJO nation fans sang along to favorites like, “With You I Am”, “Wild as You”, “Ride With Me”, “Dance Her Home”, “Diamond in My Pocket”, and “Noise.” You could feel the intensity and emotion behind each song, especially right after singing “Noise,” Johnson told the crowd, “I think this the most intimate part of the entire set.” “The whole time God had a plan to put me on this stage right here tonight. I don’t care if this offends you or not, I’m going to go ahead and give all the credit for me being here tonight to Jesus Christ.” Johnson then sang “Dear Rodeo” a song that depicted his life immensely. His passionate lyrics and emotional tracks create such an incredible connection and bond with his fans. But if he was not singing heartfelt songs, you bet Johnson turned Irving Plaza into a good timing honky-tonk with other hit songs like “Y’all People,” and “Honky Tonk Mood.”

It was not an easy road for Johnson to get where he is today, and he explained, “As for me personally, there’s a lot of people along the way that said your music will never work outside the state of Texas, there was a lot of people that said if you sign a record deal you’re gonna have to sell your soul – well here we are proving them, wrong ladies and gentleman,” He continued, “If you’re doubting yourself about something in your life tonight, I want you to dig down deep, and I want you to think about this – I am living proof that we live in the kind of country that you can step outside your box and chase your dreams and be successful. This song is for every hater in your life and everybody that wants to hate on this country its called ‘Doubt Me Now.'”

Johnson also took time during his set to invite all of the first responders, firefighters, police offers, military and the retired act of duty to raise their hands and be acknowledged. He graciously thanked each and every one of them for sacrificing and allowing everyone in the audience the freedom to be there listening to him chase his dreams. Johnson played his collaboration of “Red Dirt Road” from Brook’s and Dunn’s Reboot album, along with cover songs by his idol Chris LeDoux, Garth Brooks, Merle Haggard, Patsy Cline, George Strait and more. The crowd was loving every moment and screaming for more.

As Johnson pointed to his huge Texas tattoo, he told everyone, “Thanks for making us feel at home.” New York City fans sure did welcome Johnson with open arms, especially when he ended the incredible night with his current chart-topping single “On My Way to You” and the crowd sang back every single word to the powerful ballad. Johnson left it all on stage Friday night and fans did not want the night to end. It is no surprise that he is selling out show after show on his tour and will be joining Luke Combs at future amphitheater shows. For all upcoming tour dates head to https://www.codyjohnsonmusic.com/tour.

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