Canaan Smith: ‘High Country Sound’ Album Review + Interview

/in , , , /by

Canaan Smith’s highly anticipated sophomore album, High Country Sound, is available now, April 2nd, everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a look below for our exclusive interview and full review of the project.

Canaan Smith's new album, 'High Country Sound' is available now, April 2nd

Canaan Smith’s new album, ‘High Country Sound’ is available now, April 2nd

It may have taken you some time to recall the name “Canaan Smith” because it feels like forever since his name has been commonly used in country music. His debut album, Bronco was released in June of 2015 and it produced the massive single “Love You Like That,” which hit number one a month later. After taking a break from music for a few years, he became the first artist to sign with Florida Georgia Line’s newly-formed label, Round Here Records in August of 2019 and released the song, “Beer Drinkin’ Weather.” The release of other stand-alone singles such as “Life Ain’t Fair,” “Country Boy Things,” and “Pour Decisions” followed, and now, we finally have a true sophomore album from him.

High Country Sound is a project that speaks Smith’s truth from beginning to end. Impressively, Smith co-wrote every single song on the record, which is no easy feat. Not only that, but Smith also is the sole producer on 8 of 12 tracks and co-produced the remaining 4 with Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley of Florida Georgia Line. This is a standout achievement of the platinum hit-maker.

“When I moved here sixteen years ago from Virginia, I set out to write the kind of music that I’m doing now with this new album,” Smith tells us in our recent exclusive interview. “But somewhere along the way I sort of lost sight a little bit and started reaching more than digging and wasn’t doing what comes natural to me or what felt like an expression of who I am.”

Smith showcases his true, country-boy self throughout this entire album by discussing themes of love, heartbreak, growing up, and having a good time. You can hear the authenticity from Smith in the first two tracks, “Grounded” and “Mason Jars & Fireflies.” In the former, he reflects on hardships he has dealt with in the past but is thankful for them because they shaped the person he is today. In “Mason Jars & Fireflies,” Smith paints a beautiful picture of a simpler time when fireflies lighting up the summer sky were the most important thing on their minds. “Cabin In The Woods” also reminisces on summertime during his teenage years. He recognizes how much he has grown since then, but the memories made at that particular cabin remain fresh in his mind.

“Colder Than You” was the first song he released from this project and will serve as the lead single. Written with Corey Crowder and Jared Mullins, the singer finds comfort in a 12-pack when his girlfriend leaves him. This is not a sad breakup song, however. He realizes how much she tried to change about him, the people he hung out with, and the music he listened to and discovers he is happier without her. The cheeky and clever songwriting makes it a fun track to sing-along with and drink a beer to.

“Girl, I ain’t drowning your memory // These mountains are all that’s in here gettin’ blue // Baby, I might’ve finally found something colder than you.”

“High Country” and “Catch Me If You Can” are fun, upbeat songs all about having a good time. In the former, the singer’s girlfriend just ended things but he has a hard time being sad about it because “it’s hard to be low in high country.” This track contains a heavy amount of steel, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica, giving it a classic country sound. You can hear the Florida Georgia Line in these tracks, as they were both co-produced by Kelley and Hubbard alongside Smith.

“Sweet Virginia” is not only an ode to his home state but shows praise to his 1-year-old daughter, Virginia Rose. In the first verse, he reflects on the difficult decision to leave home to chase his dream in Nashville, but by the second verse, you can interpret the lyrics in either direction. This song is near and dear to his heart in two ways, which is probably why it was his favorite on the record.

“This record is an attempt for people to know me and that song covers all the bases,” he tells us. “In one listen you can kind of get the whole picture and story of my life until now.”

The final three songs, “Like I Ain’t Missing You;” “Highway Blues;” and “Losing Sleep Over A Girl” all touch on love and show his vulnerable side. In the first, the singer uses alcohol and other women to help him get over his ex. He acts fine, but deep down he knows he is just lying to himself. In the second, he hops in his car and goes for a long drive to try and ease his mind. He states: “Wish I was holdin’ you ‘Stead of huggin’ on a yellow line.”

The album ends on a positive note however, as he tells the story of how he fell in love with the two girls in his life: his wife and his daughter. It all started with a kiss after a George Strait concert; he could not sleep that night and he cannot sleep now due to his crying baby. The sweetest part is, he wouldn’t want it any other way.

“Wide awake, heart racin’ // So hypnotized // Lost in the moment, still lost in her eyes // As the sun made its way ‘cross the dark side of the world // There I was again / Losing sleep over a girl”

Smith discussed in our interview that he didn’t care about making a “cool” album with commercial success; he just wanted to create a project that was authentic and true to himself.

“The more you write your personal truth, it seems like that would be more isolating but it’s the exact opposite. In my experience, the more honest and open I am about my personal self, I find it resonates stronger with people than the other stuff does…I’ve gotten messages from listeners that have been finding themselves in these songs and feeling like they’re connected to them and it makes me feel really proud.”

It’s very easy to make something generic that everyone can relate to. Smith trusted his gut, took the necessary time, and put out a genuine record that contains elements of modern and traditional country with moments of celebration, heartbreak, and honest stories. It must have been a lot of pressure to come back with a sophomore record six years after your debut, but Smith delivered, and in a big way.

NYCS Top Picks

  1. Losin’ Sleep Over A Girl
  2. Grounded
  3. Colder Than You
  4. Sweet Virginia

Canaan Smith’s HIGH COUNTRY SOUND Track Listing:

1. “Grounded” (Canaan Smith, Jim Beavers, Ben Stennis) *
2. “Mason Jars & Fireflies” (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder) * 
3. “Colder Than You” (Canaan Smith, Jared Mullins, Corey Crowder) ^ 
4. “High Country” (Canaan Smith, Blake Redferrin, Corey Crowder) ^ 
5. “Catch Me If You Can” ft. Brent Cobb (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Jason Afable) *
6. “Cabin In The Woods” (Canaan Smith, Josh Miller, Brian Kelley, David Garcia) ^
7. “American Dream” (Canaan Smith, Blair Daly) *
8. “Sweet Virginia” (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder) ^  
9. “Still” (Canaan Smith, Ben Stennis, Jim Beavers) *
10. “Like I Ain’t Missin’ You” (Canaan Smith, Blake Redferrin, Jason Afable) *
11. “Highway Blues” (Canaan Smith, Jake Rose, Brian Kelley) *
12. “Losin’ Sleep Over A Girl” (Canaan Smith, Marv Green, Kyle Fishman) *

* Produced by Canaan Smith
^ Produced by Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley + Tyler Hubbard

* Interview Conducted by: Erica Zisman // Written by: Dylan Bestler for NYCountry Swag

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

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

High Country Sound 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.

5 Reasons Why You Should Listen To Canaan Smith’s Upcoming Album

/in , , , /by

Canaan Smith’s highly anticipated sophomore album, High Country Sound, is due out Friday, April 2nd. After chatting with the singer-songwriter and hearing the new music, we’re giving you five reasons why you should listen to the brand new project.

Canaan Smith's new album, 'High Country Sound' is available now, April 2nd

Canaan Smith’s new album, ‘High Country Sound’ is due out Friday, April 2nd

 

  1. Smith co-wrote every single song on the record and was the sole producer on 8 of the 12 tracks 

Each of the twelve tracks off the album are true to Smith as a person. The singer made the notable decision to include songs that spoke to him both professionally and personally, bypassing the idea that he had to write a “hit song.” The fact that Smith co-wrote every song on the record is no easy feat. Not only that, but Smith also is the sole producer on 8 of 12 tracks and co-produced the remaining 4 with Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley of Florida Georgia Line. This is a standout achievement and should be celebrated. He is the real deal!

 

  1. There are songs for every type of country fan.

What I admire most about this record is that it is not trying to be something it’s not, but yet, it still has songs for every kind of country fan. For those who like to jam out to anthem-like music, there’s “Colder Than You.” For those who love the story-telling aspect of country music, “Sweet Virginia” is your song. Personally, “Losin’ Sleep Over A Girl” is my favorite.

 

  1. The record is pure heart (and talent).

When we talked to Smith about his record, we learned how important it was for the singer to share who he is with his fans. This record has been a long time coming, and it was important for Smith to give fans a project he was proud of. Each song transports you into his world, a challenge Smith conquered effortlessly.

 

  1. You will learn all about the singer.

The twelve songs take you on a trip through Smith’s life experiences that are both personal to him, but easily relatable to others. There are songs about his daughter, his hometown, his family, love, loss, and everything else. We especially love that he included songs that he wrote ten years ago, like “American Dream.” This showcases that he wants to take fans on a ride through his whole journey.

 

  1. Because it is INCREDIBLE.

We do not say this lightly, but High Country Sound is an incredible record. It tells a story, shares who Smith is, and is unlike any other record out there. It comes from an inspiring and real place, which is the best part. It is clear that he let go of all restraints, and just developed something that is authentic and vulnerable, the best kind of music in our opinion!

 

Check back here on Friday, April 2nd for our exclusive interview and full album review of Canaan Smith’s High Country Sound.

To keep up with Canaan Smith, follow him 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 Canaan Smith releases.

Carolyn Miller Releases Viral TikTok Song, “When I Say I Do Today”

/in , , /by

After having viral success on TikTok, Carolyn Miller just released a heartwarming Wedding song, “When I Say I Do Today”. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

Carolyn Miller, "When I Say I Do Today", available now // Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Ferris

Carolyn Miller, “When I Say I Do Today”, available now // Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Ferris

Long Island, New York native, Carolyn Miller has country music and Nashville in her heart. She utilizes her platform and her voice to share songs with the world that are meaningful and relatable. Most recently, the songstress released one of her most vulnerable songs to date, a song dedicated to her husband, Kevin called “When I Say I Do Today”.

Carolyn Miller, "When I Say I Do Today", available now // Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Ferris

Carolyn Miller, “When I Say I Do Today”, available now // Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Ferris

With the support of her fans, the singer decided to release this very personal song first on TikTok, where she saw viral success with the sneak peek and listeners begged to hear the full version. The track plays as her vows to her husband written as lyrical poetry and set to a beautiful tune. In the song, Miller promises to be faithful, love her husband with everything she has, and stay firm in the good times and the bad. “When I Say I Do Today” is an incredible wedding song that celebrates love in its purest form between two people.

“Every girl dreams of the day when she gets to wear all white // And walk with daddy down the aisle to meet the love of her life // And I’ll admit I once I got married on the playground when I was 9 // But I remember thinking one day I’ll be a real bride”

What makes this song even more special is the fact that Miller never planned on releasing it. Originally a song just for her husband has become a song that many brides and grooms can enjoy for years to come.

Carolyn Miller's "When I Say I Do Today" is available now, March 31st

Carolyn Miller’s “When I Say I Do Today” is available now, March 31st

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

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

“When I Say I Do Today” 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 Shares New Song Inspired By A Fan’s Tweet

/in , , , /by

As Luke Combs prepares for his highly anticipated third studio album, he’s giving fans a sneak peek with new, unreleased tracks that just may make their way to the project. Inspired by a fan’s tweet, “We Still Drink Beer” is Combs’ latest surprise.

As always, there is no one quite like Luke Combs in the entertainment industry and when superfan, Billy McKee sent a tweet to the superstar, Combs did what he does best – wrote a song.

Sharing a photo of his wedding day, McKee added, “Man @MillerLite and @lukecombs if you guys don’t reply back to this photo I don’t even know what to say!! This was my wedding this Saturday March 27!” The photo shows McKee down on one knee, drinking a beer with a Miller Lite box over his head, while his groomsmen surround him, drinking Miller Lite as well.

Luke Combs new, unreleased track was inspired by Combs fan, Billy McKee's Wedding Tweet

Luke Combs’ new, unreleased track was inspired by Combs fan, Billy McKee’s Wedding Tweet

Less than 48 hours later, not only did McKee receive a tweet back from the singer-songwriter, but Combs also shared a brand new song inspired by the photo. Sharing the song to social media, Combs added, “It’s on your wedding day, I believe, and you’re down on one knee with a beer box on your head, and all your buddies are around you drinking beers, and it kind of just inspired this song.” Before performing an acoustic version of the song alongside his co-writers, Combs adds “I know I have a lot of beer songs, but here’s another one.”

“We Still Drink Beer” comes just days after Combs shared another new, unreleased song on social media called, “See Me Now,” giving fans a sneak peek at album number three.

While “See Me Now” touched our heartstrings, “We Still Drink Beer” is a jam. The latter is all about how crazy life gets, but that at the end of the day, we’re going to choose a cold one. The song is reminiscent of Combs’ hits “Beer Never Broke My Heart” and “When It Rains It Pours,” but the vocals are even more elevated and incredible if that’s even possible. “One small step for man, cold beer for all mankind,” Cheers to that Luke!

“We’d still drink beer // We’d still get loud // We’d still turn up // Catch us a buzz, while the sun goes down // Til every last drop in the world is gone or the good Lord calls us home // Cause as long as we’re down here // We still drink beer”

In just a few short days, Combs has reminded us that he can pretty much sing and write anything. He will continue to give us vulnerable songs and fun, party songs a pair we just cannot get enough of. We cannot wait for the next one!

Luke Combs drops new, unreleased track, "We Still Drink Beer"

Luke Combs drops new, unreleased track, “We Still Drink Beer”

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.

Trisha Yearwood Joins Mitch Rossell on Brand New Track, “Ran into You”

/in , , /by

Mitch Rossell’s new song “Ran into You” features Trisha Yearwood and is available now, March 30th. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

There is nothing that quite defines country music like a good songwriter and proving to be exactly that is Mitch Rossell. The budding star is the sole writer responsible for Garth Brooks’ smash hit “Ask Me How I Know,” and even opened for the superstar on his sold-out world tour with just an acoustic guitar in hand!

As an artist, Rossell is as talented as they come, quickly grabbing the attention of fans everywhere including power couple, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Frequently working with Brooks in the past, today Yearwood lends a hand featuring vocals on Rossell’s latest release. The collaboration of a lifetime for Rossell, he and Yearwood created a masterpiece with a song called “Ran into You.”

The new tune is honest, emotional, and impactful. Written by Rossell along with Tommy Karlas and Dave Turnbull, as a listener you just know that the song comes from a vulnerable and truthful place. The relatable track expresses how it feels to be scared of love and heartbreak, but finding your person amongst all the uncertainty.

“I ran like hell to nowhere fast // From myself // From my past // From my hometown and everyone I ever knew // I ran from God when he got too close // I ran from love and the hearts I broke // And from all the wreckage I left in my rear-view // All I ever knew was running // Til I ran into you”

For Rossell, it was an honor to have Yearwood record with him, but according to the songstress, the honor was all hers. “I’ve been a Mitch Rossell fan since the first time I heard his voice,” she tells People.com, “I’ve been waiting patiently for him to ask me to sing on one of his records, ha! He finally did.”

However the collaboration shaped up, we are so glad it did! “Ran into You” is an incredible song that will continue to touch your hearts and get stuck in your head for a long time coming!

Mitch Rossell's new song, "Ran into You" featuring Trisha Yearwood is available now, March 30th

Mitch Rossell’s new song, “Ran into You” featuring Trisha Yearwood is available now, March 30th

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

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

“Ran into 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.

Eric Church Releases New Song “Break It Kind Of Guy”

/in , , /by
Eric Church surprised fans with another brand new song, “Break It Kind Of Guy” from his forthcoming three-album project due out this April, ‘Heart & Soul’.

Earlier this year, superstar Eric Church revealed plans for an unprecedented new project. The singer-songwriter will be releasing a triple album, ‘Heart & Soul’ in April. Album #1 is entitled ‘Heart’, album #2 is ‘&’, and ‘Soul’ is the third record. Surprising fans once again before the project’s official release, Church debuted the final instant gratification track off the project, a song entitled “Break It Kind Of Guy.”

The new jam has Church written all over it! Co-written by Church with fellow songwriters Luke Dick and Casey Beathard, the song was born out of pure creativity. According to the singer, “Luke was talking about how refreshing it was and how creative he felt in that setting, and then he said ‘I’m so surprised you would do it this way because normally people are like ‘if it’s not broke’ – and when he said that, I went ‘you break it,” referring to Church’s goal of challenging himself to write and a record each song in just one day. “We’ve got three songwriters in the room so immediately it turned into ‘if it’s not broke, I’m a break it kind of guy.’ It was a neat thing for the song to be born in that moment.”

Eric Church's new song "Break It Kind Of Guy" is available now, March 26th

Eric Church’s new song “Break It Kind Of Guy” is available now, March 26th

“Hold up on rollin’ up the streets in this town // I got a bucket full of paint left and a match to burn it down // When it comes to raisin’ hell I’m ‘bout to take you all to school // Ain’t big on all your laws and don’t care about your rules // Yeah, I tell my eagle where to fly // If it’s not broke, I’m a break it kind of guy”

That anecdote is a perfect embodiment of what the song shares. In all ways, Church is not afraid to push the envelope and break molds. In fact, some may say that he is a risktaker and a rule-breaker, but we argue that he is a trendsetter and innovator.

Fans can anticipate more creativity and innovation from Church as we await his three-part record. Proving to be an artist for the fans, the middle project, ‘&’ will only be viable for the Church Choir fanbase. Visit ericchurch.com to join!

Eric Church set to release three albums, 'Heart', '&', 'Soul' this April 2021

Eric Church’s three-album project, ‘Heart’, ‘&’, ‘Soul’ due out this April 2021

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

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

“Break It Kind Of Guy” 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.

Local Artists October Rose Release New Song “Moonshine”

/in , , /by

October Rose’s new song, “Moonshine” is available now, March 26th, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

October Rose's "Moonshine" is available now, March 26th

October Rose’s “Moonshine” is available now, March 26th

Shining a light on local artists, dynamic duo, October Rose are just one of the many talented acts coming from the New York/New Jersey country scene. This week, the pair dropped their newest song, “Moonshine”. In this new release, October Rose add their signature ’80s inspired country sound and their enticing harmonies to the catchy tune.

Complete with all the ’80s flair fans want, October Rose delivers an upbeat, country number that makes you want to dance and fall in love all at once. According to the artists, “this song captures the strong feeling of meeting that someone special for the first time.” They sing about the feeling of just being hit by that feeling.

“Whooa, you hit me like moonshine // Mud-stuck stare getting drunk on you // Whoa, you set my heart on fire // I ain’t ever felt a flame so blue // Whoa, you hit me like moonshine // Uptown girl throwin’ down for you”

If you love ‘80s-inspired country tunes, a catchy melody, and relatable lyrics, then “Moonshine” is your song! October Rose knows their audience and continues to make songs that their fanbase will absolutely love and “Moonshine” is just another example of exactly that!

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

To keep up with October Rose, follow them on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

“Moonshine” 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.

Justin Moore Announces Next Album and Releases New Song

/in , , /by

Justin Moore announced his next album, Straight Outta The Country, due out April 23rd, and dropped a brand new song “She Ain’t Mine No More”. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

Multi-platinum selling country singer Justin Moore just announced an eight-track collection titled Straight Outta The Country. The announcement comes on the heels of its lead single, “We Didn’t Have Much” climbing into the top 30 on the country music charts. It is a good day for Moore fans!

Moore returned to the stage over the weekend, performing a sold-out show at Billy Bob’s Texas, and will continue to tour through the summer and the fall. His set is slated to include 90-minutes of a mix of new music and some of everyone’s favorite classic Justin Moore hits. Fans can find tickets for future tour dates at: justinmooremusic.com/tour.

We only hope he will include his newest release “She Ain’t Mine No More” in the setlist. The new song is straight-up traditional country music, just what we want from Moore. It’s a relatable break-up song that we all need to hear. Moore shows off both his vocals and his songwriting ability on this heartbreaker.

“She ain’t mine no more // Done got her moving on, moving for sure // It’s clear as day and here tonight // Like a letting go long-gone neon sign // She ain’t mine no more // She ain’t walking back through my door // She ain’t drinking my wine or kissing my lips // And that dress ain’t hitting the floor // she ain’t mine no more”

If “She Ain’t Mine No More” is any inclination of what we can expect from the new project, we are all in for a real treat. The singer-songwriter knows who his audience is and proves that he is all about the fans! Pre-order for the full project is available across all streaming platforms now.

Justin Moore's next album, 'Straight Outta The Country' is due out April 23rd

Justin Moore’s next album, ‘Straight Outta The Country’ is due out April 23rd

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

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

“She Ain’t Mine No More” 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.

CB30 Releases Piano Version of Olivia Rodrigo’s Viral Hit, “drivers license”

/in , , , /by

CB30 released their breathtaking piano version of Olivia Rodrigo’s viral smash hit, “drivers license”. Listen to the mesmerizing cover here and take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

CB30, the brother duo made up of Brody and Christian Clementi, have killer harmonies and a style that connects with fans across genres. With an incredible following on both TikTok and Instagram, the singers typically give fans exactly what they want. After sharing a clip of the two singing Olivia Rodrigo’s viral smash hit song, “drivers license,” it was evident that the pair had to record their own rendition. CB30’s version of “drivers license” is raw, intimate, and showcases their immense talent.

While the original version of “drivers license” is somber and heartbreaking, Brody and Christian’s rendition is powerful, intimate, and piano-driven. Older brother Christian leads on vocals while Brody joins at the chorus, providing killer harmonies. Additionally, Christian worked as the producer on the track, marking the first self-produced song the duo has released. If you were unsure of their talent before, CB30 proves with this song that they are not only talented vocalists, but incredible artists in their own right.

“And I know we weren’t perfect // But I’ve never felt this way for no one // And I just can’t imagine // How you could be so okay now that I’m gone // Guess you didn’t mean what you wrote in that song about me // ‘Cause you said forever, now I drive alone past your street”

The Nashville natives are clearly making Nashville and country music proud with this song! CB30’s rendition of “drivers license” is a song that I will have on my own personal playlists for a long time coming!

CB30's piano version cover of Olivia Rodrigo's "drivers license" is available now, March 26th

CB30’s piano version cover of Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license” is available now, March 26th

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future CB30 releases.

To keep up with CB30, follow them on  Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

CB30’s “drivers license” cover 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.

Who Is Nate Barnes? The Story Behind His Journey to Country Music

/in , , /by

Who is Nate Barnes? The Quartz Hill Records newcomer, whose debut single “You Ain’t Pretty” is currently climbing the charts, joined us to chat about his journey to country music. Get to know the rising star here…

Nate Barnes, Quartz Hill Records

Nate Barnes, Photo Credit: Justin Mayotte

For our latest Swag Spotlight artist, it was a total “God moment,” as he says that landed him a career in country music. Nate Barnes is a talented new artist, who has a knack for story-telling and an incredible voice to match.

Despite growing up in South Haven, Michigan, home of power plants and blueberry farms, Barnes always had a desire to be a musician. “My heart was set on music since I was a little kid because of my grandad,” he begins to tell us, “He instilled this dream in me by telling his stories and talking about musicians […] I knew I wanted to be a storyteller. I knew I wanted to tell the truth. I knew I wanted to inspire people through music.”

Although Barnes knew he wanted to be a musician, he did not exactly know his path. As a child, he played drums in numerous bands, only discovering his voice when he reached his teenage years. Barnes shared that he played in all different types of bands, showcasing his wide variety of musical influences. “I grew up with all sorts of music. I just had such an amazing family that loved all music,” he shared, adding later that country music was not the only genre in his household. “One of the main things we listened to was Motown, it was blues, just anything you could think of, I grew up listening to.” Barnes also shared a love for artists like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

The singer credits the deepening of his love for country music though, to his friend and mentor Dennis Hartman, who reintroduced him to country music at 21 years old. “He reintroduced country music in a way that I never heard before and I knew at that moment, I wanted to be a part of country music,” shared Barnes, “It spoke the truth in a way that I’ve been wanting. It felt like home, and I knew I had to be a part of it somehow.”

Continuing to gig whenever he could, Barnes settled into life in Michigan, working a full-time job unrelated to music. It was not until a trip to Tennessee that his life would flip on a dime. By happenstance, the singer met hit songwriter Jason Sellers, who after some introductions to people in Nashville convinced Barnes to take the risk and move out to Music City.

Flash forward to today, the entertainer is a bonafide artist. His debut single “You Ain’t Pretty” impacted country radio just a little over a month ago, as the most added debut song by an artist. Blowing up on radio and on social media, it is clear that Barnes is building a fanbase that will continue to support him. Calling the song, “The right song at the right time that men needed to say and women needed to hear. That all people need to hear,” it is clear that Barnes has an ear for music.

The singer wrote the song with Jason Sellers and Jimmy Yeary. Crediting Yeary for the inspiration, it was the three of them that really took the song to the place it is now. Their goal was to create a song to remind people that they are wonderful just the way they are. “

“So after we got done writing it, it was just this thing, like this is such an amazing thing to say to people and to myself, I needed to hear it [too],” explained Barnes.

As “You Ain’t Pretty” continues to gain traction on the charts, fans can look forward to more new music coming from Barnes sometime this year. The singer is ready for this journey and looking forward to sharing his passion and talent with the world.

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

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

Nate Barnes’ 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.