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Thomas Rhett, ‘Country Again: Side A’ – Album Review

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Thomas Rhett released Side A of his double album project, Country Again, today April 30th. With 11 new tracks, take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.

Thomas Rhett has not just kept busy in the last year, but he has received continued success and has even more on the horizon. Most recently, he received his 17th #1 song with “What’s Your Country Song?”, announced his upcoming Center Point Road Tour, and received the ACM Award for Male Artist of the Year. Now he has released the first part of a two-part album release, Country Again: Side A, an 11-track album with some of the most personal and down-to-earth music that Rhett has released to date. We can’t help but say that for each new album he releases, as we felt that same way when we first heard Center Point Road and Life Changes, but it’s the truth, the singer-songwriter continuously releases music that is true to himself and relatable to others. Side A is entirely co-written by Thomas Rhett and six of the songs are also co-written with his dad, Rhett Akins. 

In the Country Again: Side A trailer, Rhett gives some insight on what this collection of new songs means to him, and what they reflect about his life. He shares: “I think in a nutshell, Country Again: Side A is a little bit of just a growing up path. Every single song on this record is what I wish I could have spit out of my brain when I was nineteen years old. You know, these are the things I was trying to say.” He goes on to say, “these past twelve years, I’ve been on this incredible journey but I think deep down I’m still that kid that just wanted to write songs and play them for people. You know, I think I’m just getting back to the root of why I ever wanted to sing music in the first place and it was to tell a story and invoke emotion. I just feel like for the first time at thirty years old, I’m right where I’m supposed to be, and I’m happy to be there.”

The decision to release Country Again as a two-part double album was largely a result of the abundance of songs that Rhett found himself writing over the last two years, the most he ever has. While this project was already in the works, the pandemic alone resulted in so much more new music from the artist. Rhett was perhaps one of the most transparent and present artists on social media throughout the pandemic. He was constantly teasing acoustic versions of new songs he had written on Instagram. Admitting that anything more than a 10-track album overwhelms him and would normally cause him to check out, Rhett said he had never even considered a double album before. However, the response he received from fans for the songs he was playing on Instagram was so strong, that he felt they all deserved to see the light of day. Since he wrote so many songs that he loved, Rhett decided that he wanted them all to be put into the world, but in two parts so that fans would have the chance to digest both parts, giving a greater chance for people to connect with each individual song. Now, all the songs about this time of his life and during this writing journey could exist together on the same project, but in a way that they would be fully appreciated and reflective of a time where we were all forced to look inward and ponder our past and future.

At the start of 2020, Rhett was already exploring the idea of stripping down his music, drifting away from the “Make Me Wanna” and “Crash and Burn” type of songs and the kind of sound that defined him, especially at the start of his career, and gravitating towards writing more about his life, family, and “what country music is in the first place – the emotion and the soul and being able to tell a story in three and a half minutes.” Speaking on the kinds of songs that got him here in the first place, Rhett says that those define a particular aspect of his personality. He’s grateful for those songs because when he wanted to carve his own path, he believes they separated him from the pack. Rhett doesn’t drift entirely away from the sound of his that we know and love on this project. “Put It On Ice” and “Blame it on a Backroad” are the pair of upbeat carefree songs on Country Again: Side A and they remind us of his classic sound. But right now, he’s in a different phase of his life and there’s a lot more that he wants to say. Most of that stems from his life with his wife, Lauren Akins, and their three daughters, Willa Gray, Ada James, and Lennon Love.

Rhett says, “When you have kids, it’s kind of impossible not to write about them. Your marriage shifts and your life shifts, and your free time is not free time anymore. So when I do have the chance to write, I want to write about something that’s really happening and says something.”

While he was already headed in the direction of making the kind of music found on Country Again, the pandemic in general and more time at home really brought the project out of him. As we can all understand, he was suddenly forced to face the issues and the questions that were pressing on his mind. When he had to slow down, he took a look at himself and asked for the first time, “Who am I? Who is Thomas Rhett without a microphone or a guitar or a stage?” In figuring that out and feeling as though he was neglecting being a husband, a dad, and a friend, in ways, 2020 acted as a reality check and a complete reset. When he settled into himself and his family, and started working again, that shift completely influenced his songwriting. 

Country Again: Side A includes a handful of pre-released singles like “Country Again”, which sets the mood as the title track, highlighting Rhett’s return to his roots and acting as the inspiration for this project. Rhett says that the story behind the title track started out as a joke. He walked into a meet-and-greet wearing cowboy boots for the first time since about 2012, which made everybody on his team look at him like ‘where are your sneakers?’. But he said it felt good to slip them back on – it felt right. And out of that story, they wrote “Country Again”. When they finished that song, Rhett felt they found what the theme of the record was going to be – “It’s not about wearing boots or getting in the woods, it’s a way of life”. The song felt so pure to Rhett that he wanted to lean on more traditional sounds and the instruments that made him fall in love with 90’s country, like fiddle and pedal steel. In just the first weekend of wanting to experiment with getting back to his roots, another five or six songs came out. 

“I traded in my Silverado // I didn’t need no 4×4 // Tucked my boots in the back of the closet // They didn’t feel like me no more // But I dug ’em out and slipped ’em on // They’ve been on my feet since then // Man it feels good to be country again”

“Growing Up” and “What’s Your Country Song”, both of which were pre-released songs, as well as “Where We Grew Up” and “More Time Fishin” each reflect the very theme that Rhett wanted “Country Again” to stand for, in their own way. 

“Growing Up” is a song about taking a look at how you’ve grown as time has passed. Rhett shares that “it’s about my past self and the things that I used to think were cool… and becoming a wiser version of yourself that you never pictured yourself becoming. But then you get there and you’re like, I have learned something worth sharing.”

“What’s Your Country Song” is one of those ‘songs about songs’ and includes so many classic country songs that Rhett not only grew up on, but ones that have defined the genre over the years, and probably include some of your favorites too. As one of the father-son co-writes on the album, it only makes sense that Rhett Akins’ “That Ain’t My Truck” would be in the mix.

Next on the album, “Where We Grew Up” is about being proud of where you came from and for the endless memories and lessons you have from that time of your life. While “More Time Fishin” is about not wanting to wake up one day to look back on your life and regret not doing certain things that you should have. 

“You can spend your whole life // Tryin’ to make a killin’ // But what’s it all worth without a little livin’ // Don’t wanna look back at all the things I’m missin’ // And wake up wishin’ I spent more time fishin’, yeah // More time fishin’, yeah”

Tying in the very values that TR wanted this album to represent, he also included a few songs that are extremely personal and about some of the most important people in his life. One for an old friend, one for his daughters, and one about him and his wife, Lauren’s story. 

“Heaven Right Now” is a tear-jerker and a song that is so personal to not just Rhett but to Lauren as well. It’s a letter to their friend Hunter, one of their best friends and a member of their ‘crew’ back home who lost his life way too young. On writing this song, Rhett shares: “That one still wrecks me…I don’t know why I had never thought to write about him, but maybe it’s because only now do I have the space to do so, the time to reflect and put words to the pain inside of me.” If you have read Lauren’s book, ‘Live in Love’, she talks about her and Thomas Rhett’s friendship with Hunter throughout its entirety and how losing him has affected them and the rest of their friends since. In her book, like in the song, they each talk about the bracelet that Hunter’s mom made for all their friends with his initials and a fishhook on it. They both talk about still wearing that bracelet and how Rhett has never taken it off. You can see it in any picture, and at every concert and award show. 

“Are you fishing, are you flying // How much greener is the grass // Are you older, are you younger // Or did time stop in its tracks // Anyway, thought I’d say hey // I just made my way past your momma’s house // I wonder what you’re doing in heaven right now”

Knowing their story makes it even harder to listen to, but at the same time, where Thomas Rhett is singing from is a place that anyone who has ever lost someone close to them can relate to. It’s not just about missing them, but about wishing you could catch up, wishing you could have experienced more of each other’s lives together, and the questions you would ask them if you could. If you want to know more about Thomas Rhett and Lauren’s story, we highly suggest reading her book. It goes back to them being friends as kids and all of that adds a deeper meaning to almost all of Rhett’s music from his love letters to Lauren, and now to his songs about their family together, and all the life that’s happened between them meeting in the second grade until now.

Like Rhett said, “when you have kids, it’s kind of impossible not to write about them” and speaking on “To The Guys That Date My Girls”, he said “that’s a song to my daughters saying ‘I hope you grow up and date somebody that’s a good kid” He goes on, “I wrote it on the road, and I played it in concert the same night that we wrote it. And I was watching grown, burly men, bawling their eyes out while they were holding their daughters, going ‘Please don’t get older!’ There’s a lot of dads out there that are wondering what that conversation is going to look like.”

Quite literally a letter to the guys that will date his girls, while also sneaking in some love for Lauren, this song was written by not only their Dad but also their grandfather. Giving mostly ‘free advice’, they don’t pass on the opportunity for a little threat either… 

“You know you can’t fool me // I know what’s on your mind // Wasn’t long ago I was your age and the same thing was on mine // And when you pull her close you save some room for Jesus // ‘Cause if you ever cross that line I swear boy you’re going to need him”

With his incredible songwriting talents and the ability to not only pull on heartstrings but also throw some lines for his loved ones, Rhett does the same with “Want It Again”. True to him and Lauren’s story, this song is about young love that didn’t last, but always stayed in the back of your mind with the hope that somewhere down the line that person would come back to you, and sometimes they really do. 

Rhett closes Country Again: Side A with a song that perfectly expresses everything that he wanted for the whole project. When Rhett talks about feeling like he is exactly where he is supposed to be in life, this song says it all. “Ya Heard”, which he played for fans on social media in April of 2020, is a song about everything working out exactly the way it was supposed to. Learning from his own experience, Rhett offers advice about holding on to faith and staying optimistic that life is going to turn out alright. He says, “sometimes I look back and wonder if God was ever listening. Even if I wasn’t on my knees praying about it, I think he was hearing every little thing that I wanted in my life. From my wife to my kids to my music, everything turned out to be exactly what I dreamed of.”

“This old guitar dad played in bars // As soon as it was mine // I started seeing shooting stars // I played at parties out in fields // And I hoped one day by the grace of you // It just might pay the bills”

We couldn’t be happier about this collection of songs, what they mean to Thomas Rhett, and how he has evolved over the years, both personally and in his career, and we can’t wait for what Side B has in store. Until then, we’ll have Side A on repeat.

COUNTRY AGAIN: SIDE A TRACKLIST:
1. “Want It Again” | Thomas Rhett, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Miller, Josh Thompson
2. “Growing Up” | Thomas Rhett, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Miller, Josh Thompson
3. “What’s Your Country Song” | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Parker Welling
4. “Where We Grew Up”* | Thomas Rhett, Luke Laird, Josh Miller
5. “Heaven Right Now” | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson, Laura Veltz
6. “To The Guys That Date My Girls” | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Will Bundy, Josh Thompson
7. “More Time Fishin’” | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Will Bundy, Josh Thompson
8. “Country Again” | Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell, Ashley Gorley
9. “Put It On Ice (featuring Hardy)”+ | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson
10. “Blame It On A Backroad” | Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell, Ashley Gorley 
11. “Ya Heard” | Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Matt Dragstrem, Chase McGill

Produced by Dann Huff and Jesse Frasure
+Produced by Dann Huff and Matt Dragstrem
*Produced by Dann Huff

Although no official tracklist or release date for Side B has been revealed yet, we can assume that fans will see even more songs that the artist has previously shared on social media throughout the past few months. Unreleased songs like “Your Momma’s Front Porch”, “Things Dads Do”, “Bass Pro Hat” and “That’ll Be Us Someday”, kept fans on their toes as Rhett consistently took to Instagram to tease new music. Now, only time will tell which songs will make the official cut on the second album.

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

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

Country Again: Side A 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.

Luke Combs Releases Real-Life Fairytale Wedding Footage in New Music Video

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Luke Combs shared exclusive video from his fairytale wedding in the brand new music video for “Forever After All”. Watch the beautiful and touching video below.

As if “Forever After All” could not be special enough, the entertainer shared special footage from his real-life wedding to his wife Nicole. The pair wed at an intimate get-together back in August at their home in Florida. The four-minute music video will have any naysayer believing in true love.

The video intertwines clips of a grandfather showing his granddaughter pictures of the couple’s relationship and wedding. The mystery of who these people are is solved at the end of the video. Of course, the singer made sure to include footage of him performing in the recording booth, and Nicole supporting him at his sold-out gigs too. However, the most touching part of the emotional video is when you get to view Nicole walking down the aisle to a crying and emotional Luke Combs, who is clearly overjoyed by finding his soulmate.

“Forever After All” is true romance wrapped up in a bow, and we are so happy that Combs decided to share his fairytale with his country music family and fans!

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

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

For the latest new country music tunes, follow our  ‘New Country Music’ playlist for your weekly new country music fix.

8 Things We Miss the Most About Country Music Concerts

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It has been a year without live music, and we still desperately miss country music concerts. However, we see the light at the end of the tunnel with artists like Eric Church and Kane Brown announcing future tour dates! Until then though, here are the 8 things we miss the most about country music concerts.

  1. The Good Vibes

There is absolutely nothing like listening to live music. The atmosphere, the adrenaline, the artists, the fans, absolutely EVERYTHING feels magical. We cannot wait for that feeling again!

 

  1. The Sound of Live Music

Albums and records are great, but there is nothing quite like hearing your favorite artist perform live. There are so many artists that we cannot wait to see as soon as we get back to some resemblance of normalcy.

 

  1. The Tailgate

If you have ever joined us at a show, especially at Jones Beach, then you know how much we love to tailgate! The tailgate sets the tone for the rest of the night and allows fans to connect and bond over the music.

 

  1. Connecting with Other Fans

One of the things we love most about NYCountry Swag is getting to connect with our followers at live shows by some of our favorite artists all across New York City and Long Island.

 

  1. Singing Along to Every Song

This one goes without saying. We even miss the raspy voice you get the day after the concert from singing your heart out for three hours straight!

 

  1. The $15 Beers at the Venue

What we would do to pay that much for a beer right now…

 

  1. Discovering new music acts to love

Although we pride ourselves on being tastemakers in the industry and always know all the acts performing at concerts, we love watching our friends and other fans experience a new artist for the first time. We’ll never forget when Tenille Townes took the stage as an opener at Dierks Bentley’s concert, and how crazy everyone went for the newcomer.

 

  1. Hearing Our Favorite Song Live

At this point, we have a whole list of songs that we cannot wait to hear live! We’re sure you do too!

 

Let us know, what are you missing most about concerts?! and sure to check out the full list of upcoming tours here.

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future tour announcements, ticket giveaways, and more.

Luke

Luke Combs Premieres New Unreleased Song “Joe” at Opry

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Luke Combs premiered a new kind of drinking song during his Grand Ole Opry performance, telling the story of “Joe” in the unreleased track. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.

Over the weekend, Luke Combs took the stage at Nashville’s coveted venue, the Grand Ole Opry. The singer performed hits like “Forever After All,” “Beautiful Crazy,” and “When It Rains It Pours,” but decided to surprise fans as well. As many who get the chance to perform at the Opry do Combs unveiled a brand new unreleased song to the audience, simply titled “Joe.”

Combs shared with fans that the song was only a few days old. He collaborated with Erik Dylan on the track, after Dylan had started it with another songwriter, James Slater. “I just thought it would be real awesome, and we finished it together,” shared the singer on stage, “I guess the title of this song would be “Joe.” So just hear me out and tell me what you think.”

Combs uses his voice to share a powerful story of a blue-collar worker and his redemption and recovery from alcoholism. A simple and quiet song, “Joe” is a top-notch story-telling song in country music. Combs’ rich voice and incredible delivery make you want to hang on to every lyric.

“Thank the Lord every morning with a sweet Amen // For how far I’ve come from where I’ve been // So here’s to good days and a better tomorrow // And a light at the end of the bottle”

For anyone who has ever found themselves or known someone who struggles with alcoholism, this song will hit home. It is all of our stories of struggle and redemption. Once again, Combs proves why he is one of the best in the business! Check out the full Opry performance below.

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

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

For the latest new country music tunes, follow our  ‘New Country Music’ playlist for your weekly new country music fix.

Miranda Lambert Releases “Geraldene” with Jack Ingram and Jon Randall

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Miranda Lambert along with Jack Ingram and Jon Randall surprised fans today, April 28th with the release of their new song, “Geraldene” ahead of The Marfa Tapes, due out May 7th. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

County music superstar Miranda Lambert has joined forces with fellow musicians, Jack Ingram and Jon Randall on a brand new record entitled The Marfa Tapes, slated to come out on May 7th. The record is a culmination of intimate songs that the threesome wrote and recorded together in the tiny town of Marfa, Texas. This week, the singer-songwriters released a new song entitled “Geraldene.”

Continuing to make music that is good for the soul, Lambert, Ingram, and Randall add “Geraldene” to their early releases. With Lambert taking the lead on this track, the songstress pours her heart out in the song that respectfully mimics Dolly Parton’s hit song “Jolene.” The singer’s vocals soar on the song, as she clearly lets her emotions take center stage. Just as noticeable, the acoustic guitar feels almost palpable in the stunning song.

“Geraldene, Geraldene // Why ya gotta make me mean // Don’t make me cause a scene now Geraldene // Geraldene, Geraldene”

What makes this project as a whole and this song specifically so much fun is that the trio showcases every part of themselves on this record. Fans can hear Lambert’s voice crack a little about 2 minutes into the song, but instead of redoing the recording, the singers laugh it off. In the end, you can even hear the men telling Lambert to “Take a bow Geraldene.” We agree and are looking forward to the full release of this unique project on May 7th!

Miranda Lambert, Jack Ingram, & Jon Randall's "Geraldene" is available now, April 28th

Miranda Lambert, Jack Ingram, & Jon Randall’s “Geraldene” is available now, April 28th

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

To keep up with Miranda Lambert, follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

“Geraldene” 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.

The Best Taylor Swift Country Music Songs of All Time

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As Taylor Swift relives her start with the re-release of Fearless (Taylor’s Version), we’re rounding up our all-time favorite Taylor Swift country music songs.

Taylor Swift / Photo Credit: @hogieaaa__ via @taylorswift on Instagram

Taylor Swift / Photo Credit: @hogieaaa__ via @taylorswift on Instagram

  1. Our Song 

Starting off with the first song I ever heard by Taylor Swift is “Our Song”. To think Taylor Swift was a freshman in high school when she wrote this absolute jam is unbelievable. The chorus is undeniably hooky and clever and holds up many years later.

  1. Tim McGraw

Taylor’s debut single was “Tim McGraw” and it’s the perfect high school sweetheart love song. The hook of the song is, “When you think Tim McGraw, I hope you think of me”, and in general it captures youth and the feeling of being seventeen very well.

  1. Fifteen

There are few story songs, in country music and beyond, that are as strong and evocative and will stand the test of time like “Fifteen”.  A song about the first days of high school and meeting her best friend Abigail, the two navigate friendship, love, first adult decisions, and realizations. “Back then I swore I was gonna marry him someday // But I realized some bigger dreams of mine // And Abigail gave everything she had to a boy who changed his mind // we both cried // …I found time can heal most anything // And you just might find who you’re supposed to be // I didn’t know who I was supposed to be // at fifteen.” 

  1. Love Story

“Love Story” is perhaps one of the most important songs in Taylor’s discography. Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet,  Taylor swaps a new ending and new story for the very famous play. It’s the perfect pop-country jam; you can sing it with your friends in the car, at karaoke, and more. Sonically, the banjo in the song is spectacular, as is the key change. It truly is a perfect country song.

  1. Dear John

The pure genius of “Dear John” should not be lost on fans just because it’s almost 7 minutes long. Most likely about her infamous relationship with John Mayer, this is her Dear John letter to him. She channels him in this song and the beginning guitar riffs themselves are inspired by his hit “Gravity”. The lyrics are angry, emotional, and even reminiscent, and it builds into an incredible chorus and even better bridge. “But I took your matches before fire could catch me, so don’t look now // I’m shining like fireworks over your sad, empty town.”

  1. Never Grow Up

One of Taylor’s saddest and most beautiful songs about getting older is “Never Grow Up”. The song takes you through multiple stages of life- being little tucked into bed, embarrassed by your parents as a teenager, and moving away to an apartment by yourself. It’s a picture poignantly painted, and her vocals and delicate guitar arrangements are perfect accompaniments to the lyrics. “Take pictures in your mind of your childhood room // Memorize what it sounded like when your dad gets home // Remember the footsteps, remember the words said, and all your little brother’s favorite songs // I just realized everything I have is someday gonna be gone.” 

  1. Sparks Fly

I have a theory that the second song on any album is actually just as important as the opening track. “Sparks Fly” is a perfect second song. It’s upbeat and fun and makes you want to roll the windows down with your friends and feel infinite. Country music is about a lot of things: life, love, and of course storytelling, but much of it has to do with having fun. And that is just what this song is: a perfect, young summer country song.

  1. Enchanted

“Enchanted” is one of the most magical, almost mysterious songs in Taylor’s entire discography. it feels like an entire movie wrapped into one, it’s so cinematic and dreamy in the best way possible. “The playful conversation starts // Counter all your quick remarks, like passing notes in secrecy // And it was enchanting to meet you.” This song is a fan-favorite for many reasons and it will never get old.

  1. Treacherous

“Treacherous” is one of my all-time favorite Taylor songs. The lyrics are picturesque and so poetic, and the production and her vocal delivery is stunningly serene and intense at the same time. “This slope is treacherous // And I like it.” To me, it walks the tightrope of infatuation and trusting your gut, and it makes for possibly one of her best songs.

  1. I Almost Do

What makes “I Almost Do” a phenomenal, more acoustic country track is the plainly stated vocal delivery and simplicity in its story. “And I just wanna tell you // It takes everything in me not to call you // And I wish I could run to you // And I hope you know that every time I don’t // I almost do”. It’s direct and so honest that it feels like you’re reading a diary entry, and that’s what makes it so effective.

  1. Begin Again

“Begin Again” is a picturesque, thoughtful, and amazing album closer to Taylor’s Red album. The music video takes place in a coffee shop, and that’s exactly what the song sounds like. It’s about meeting someone new after a hard relationship ends. “You say you never met one girl who had as many James Taylor records as you // But I do // We tell stories and you don’t know why // I’m coming off a little shy // But I do.”  

  1. All Too Well

“All Too Well” is one of, if not Taylor’s most beloved album cut ever. And rightfully so. The iconic track 5 is dramatic in all the right ways, and if a song sounded like fall, this would be it. “All Too Well” is responsible for one of Taylor’s most iconic bridges. “Hey, you call me up again just to break me like a promise // So casually cruel in the name of being honest”. It’s a song as good to listen to with friends as it is by yourself, focusing on the lyrics. It’s a song that if it wasn’t so great, would be overrated.

  1. Right Where You Left Me 

The haunting bonus track on Taylor’s latest album Evermore captures the feelings of being stuck in the past and the melody, banjo, and guitar, as well as stellar lyrics prove to be as country as ever. No matter what Taylor makes, her compass will always point in the direction of one thing, and that’s storytelling.

Check out Taylor Swift’s re-recorded version of her album, Fearless (Taylor’s Version) here.

To keep up with Taylor Swift, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Country Stars Cover Songs off Justin Bieber’s ‘Justice’ Album and More

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Justin Bieber is one of the most successful superstars of our generation. Despite his pop sound, Bieber has appealed to the masses and has fans from every genre, including country music. In celebration of his latest hit record, Justice, we’re taking a look at some of the country artists who have shared their own versions of Justin Bieber’s music.

 

  1. “Off My Face”- CB30

One of our favorite brother-duo groups, CB30 showed off their insane talent and harmonies, covering Bieber’s song “Off My Face” off the brand new record Justice. Fans are already insisting that the singers release their version of the song to streaming services ASAP. For now, fans can listen below on their Instagram.

 

  1. “One Less Lonely Girl”- Russell Dickerson

We are still in love with this old-school cover of “One Less Lonely Girl” by Dickerson. This 2011 cover is still just as amazing as it was back then. The song is one of the few songs that put Bieber on the map, and it’s exciting to look back at it through Dickerson’s (a virtually unknown artist at the time) eyes. Check it out below!

 

  1. “Intentions” – Temecula Road

The harmonious and talented trio, Temecula Road covered Bieber’s song “Intentions” last year. It is safe to say that they absolutely slay the cover, showing off their country roots, on an otherwise pop-infused jam.

 

  1. “HOLY”- Alana Springsteen

One of our newest favorite songstresses, Alana Springsteen is an absolute Queen when it comes to covers! She has covered songs from artists like Taylor Swift, Dan + Shay, and of course, Justin Bieber. Her cover of “HOLY” is so smooth and soothing, and we cannot get enough of it! Check it out below. While you’re at it, make sure to download her new song “Trying Not To” with Roman Alexander.

 

  1. “Love Yourself”- Kane Brown

Before he was a superstar and selling out arenas, Brown was just a kid trying to make it in country music. In 2016, he performed “Love Yourself” in a live studio radio performance, and doubters were stopped in their steps. His version still gives us chills. Watch the clip below!

 

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Tenille Arts Scores First #1 Song with “Somebody Like That”

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Rising star Tenille Arts lands her very first career number one song at country radio this week with “Somebody Like That”.

For the second week in a row, a female country artist has the top song on the country music charts! Following Gabby Barrett, newcomer and NYCountry Swag 2021 Artist to Watch, Tenille Arts has landed her first number one song with her current radio single “Somebody Like That.”

Back in 2020, when we reviewed Arts’ record Love, Heartbreak & Everything In Between, we coined her single “one to watch,” and it looks like we were right. The songstress is one of those singer-songwriters that feels like your best friend giving you great advice. Her song “Somebody Like that” is all about not settling in a relationship until you find a love like no other. Her confidence, pride, and power all come through in this anthemic single. The infectious country-pop song is the perfect introduction to all of Arts’ talents!

“But I want that all in, falling’ // Keep the fire burning like the first time feeling // No matter what if I’m gonna love // I’m gonna love somebody like that // Kinda heart, open arms // Says forever and will never ever take it back // If I’m gonna love // I’m gonna love somebody like that”

We are excited to see what is in store for Arts as her career continues to blossom. We also hope that this is a turning of the tides for female artists in the industry, as more and more, get the recognition they deserve on radio.

Congrats to Tenille Arts and her team!

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tenille Arts releases.

To keep up with Tenille Arts, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Somebody Like That” 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.

Who Is Sacha? The Story Behind Her Journey to Country Music

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

Sacha

“Music has been ever-present in my life from my earliest recollections.” – Sacha

This week we are excited to introduce a rising singer-songwriter, who hails all the way from a small town in Ontario, Canada. Sacha, our next Swag Spotlight artist, is a budding talent in the industry, who is making waves with her music. A CMT’s ‘Next Women of Country’ inductee, this is only the beginning for the songstress.

Born and raised in a musical family from Ontario, Sacha has always had music in her heart and in her soul. “The impact of country living and country music just had an effect on me,” she tell us, “I grew up in a household of musicians. Every instrument was available in my house.” With an ear for all music, her family introduced her to the likes of artists like Patsy Cline, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and even Bob Marley.

“I didn’t even realize what kind of music I was falling in love with, it was just what I heard over the speakers that really struck a chord with me,” she shared, later adding that it was her mom’s Patsy Cline’s records that really stuck out to her. “I remember singing along and wishing I was the voice on the other side of the speaker.”

As she grew older, the idea of being a female singer-songwriter in the industry felt more possible after she discovered a brand new artist at the time, Taylor Swift. As a young girl, Swift was breaking records, writing music, and being portrayed in the best light by fans and the industry. “I just wanted to sing,” she recalls, “You just don’t know how you’re going to connect those dots from a small town to the stage, to the dream.”

Armed with a passion, but a need to pay the bills, Sacha juggled both the “typical” life, working and grinding away with playing gigs wherever she could. “I was playing the guitar for three hours a day, working on my guitar skills, writing, and then I started going down to the open mics,” shared Sacha, adding, “When I picked up my guitar to write a song, it was just natural to me to write a story, that’s just what was natural to me, it’s just what came out of me, country music.”

After entering and winning a singing competition called “Canada’s Next Country Music Star” in 2016, doors started to open for the budding entertainer. Her dream of being a country artist continued to become more real when she connected with the incredible Leslie Fram of CMT and eventually was inducted into the 2021 class of CMT’s ‘Next Women of Country.’

Around the same time, Sacha released her EP The Best Thing, featuring her current charted hit “Standards.” As an independent release, the song broke the top 50 on the Canadian charts and created more buzz about her in the country music world. The song also happens to be an incredible anthem for people everywhere.

“The second I heard it, it just hit me like a ton of bricks,” she shared when she first heard the pitch for the song, “I always loved making music for the love of it, but the main thing is having a good message to go along with. […] We have a lot of heartbreak songs on country radio, but not a lot of songs that might help you avoid one,” she laughs, adding later, “Stick to your standards!”

Sacha promises that more music is in the works and continues to write as much as she can. Of course, as soon as it’s safe to travel, she hopes to come back to Nashville to be surrounded by people that inspire her. It’s safe to say it is only just the beginning for the songstress and her blossoming career.

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

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

Sacha’s music 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.

Blake Shelton Releases New Song “Bible Verses” Ahead of New Album

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Blake Shelton released a brand new song, “Bible Verses” ahead of his 12th studio album, ‘Body Language’ due out May 21st. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.

As we anticipate the release of country superstar, Blake Shelton’s 12th studio album, Body Language, the singer gives fans another taste of the upcoming record. After releasing “Minimum Wage” and his duet with Gwen Stefani, “Happy Anywhere,” Shelton debuts the another track off the project called “Bible Verses.”

In a recent press release the singer shared, “No matter where you are in your faith, there are times you feel like you don’t measure up,” adding, “[The song] is an honest take on that conflict, but without preaching too much, it’s hopeful that everything will all work out in the end.”

One of Shelton’s most vulnerable ballads to date, the singer conveys what it’s like to struggle with your flaws. Written by prolific songwriters, Joe Fox, Andrew Peebles, and Brett Sheroky, the story is one that many people can find themselves in. It is clear in the singer’s impactful delivery that he is baring his heart, playing the role of a tortured soul.

“That I can open up that good book // And Heaven don’t look // Like it’s out of reach // When it feels like those apostles // Are giving me the gospel // And not the third degree // I just want it to read // Like Bible verses // And not the Bible versus me”

In the twenty years that Shelton has been a staple in country music when he burst on to the scene with “Austin,” he has provided us with an incredible catalog of songs. From the looks of it his next studio album, Body Language seems to fit the bill!

Blake Shelton's new song, "Bible Verses" is available now, April 23rd

Blake Shelton’s new song, “Bible Verses” is available now, April 23rd

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

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

“Bible Verses” 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.