Parker McCollum: Hollywood Gold – EP Review

Parker McCollum’s major-label debut EP Hollywood Gold is available now, October 16th on all streaming platforms. Watch below in our Up Close & Virtual Interview as we chat with McCollum about the new music + read our full EP Review below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs.

Texas native and NYCountry Swag 2020 Artist to Watch, Parker McCollum signed with MCA Nashville/UMG Nashville last year, and since then, has garnered thousands and thousands of fans across the nation. Today marks the release of his brand new EP, his major-label debut Hollywood Gold.

The EP is a dedication to McCollum’s craft, his fans, and of course his loved ones. It’s name pays homage to the singer-songwriters grandfather, his prized horse, and the message his grandfather always taught him to “just keep swinging.” His grandfather also played a role in why the singer chose to record the only song off the record that he did not write, “Like A Cowboy.” Written by Chris Stapleton and Al Anderson, the tune is a pensive song about having an internal identity conflict.

“Girl I will love you the best that I can / But you need to know that I am what I am / And I’m not a bad guy, but I’m not a good guy at heart”

On “Young Man’s Blues,” McCollum shares his version of home and what his home has ingrained in him. His vulnerability and honesty in this song is unparalleled. Similarly, fan-favorite tune, “Hallie Ray Light” showcases the same type of honesty and relatability. Named after his girlfriend, the song focuses on showing affection to a new lover.

The lead single “Pretty Heart” is steadily climbing the charts and has truly touched the hearts of fans across the nation. The achingly beautiful declaration of remorse for a break-up is the songwriting country music deserves.

“What does it say about me / Now that I’ve broke your pretty heart / Your pretty heart”

The closing track “Love You Like That” is another standout. The singer-songwriter confesses his insecurities in love as he sings about feeling like he could fly with his girl, but he doesn’t know if he can do the same despite promising everything to try.

“I never really had no peace of mind / I’m a running heart / Living fast / I never understand you putting up with that / Cause I’m the same man that I’ve always been / And I hope that that’s the man you’re loving in the end”

Of course, each of the six tracks off the record paints a unique picture, running the gamut of the human experience, all of which showcase McCollum’s talent at connecting to fans. “If I’m going to sing these songs every night, I’ve gotta mean the things I”m singing about. I can’t fake it,” declared McCollum in a recent press release.

It has been a long time coming for McCollum, whose lifelong dream has finally been recognized with this project. Overall, each track puts a modern twist on true-blue traditional country music, without blurring the genre lines. His roots in Texas country music are truly embedded in his signature sound. If this is any inclination of what a full-length project will look like from the artist, fans are in for a real treat, because the singer-songwriter’s staying power is undeniable.

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

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

 

NYCS Picks:

1. “Pretty Heart”
2. “Love You Like That”

Hollywood Gold EP Tracklist:

1. Young Man’s Blues
2. Like A Cowboy
3. Pretty Heart
4. Hallie Ray Light
5. Hold Me Back
6. Love You Like That

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

 

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