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2023 Country Artists to Watch

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Introducing our 2023 Country Artists to Watch!

Over the past 7+ years of Country Swag, we have always loved to support rising artists and introduce our followers to the best new music in the genre. Since our first Artists to Watch list back in 2017, we have pinned rising stars like Luke Combs, Brett Young, Russell Dickerson, Jordan Davis, Walker Hayes, HARDY, Gabby Barrett, Ernest, and more. Each year we choose ten new artists that we believe are destined for killer careers, our only rule when choosing is the artist can NOT already have a number one song.

Check out our picks in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2o2o, 2021, and 2022 before checking out the 10 artists we picked to have a huge 2023 below.

MEGAN MORONEY –

meg-moroney

Listen: “Tennessee Orange”
Stay Connected: @megmoroney

It is hard to talk about 2022 without Megan Moroney popping into the conversation! The singer-songwriter steadily gained popularity on social media throughout the year. With half a million followers on TikTok alone, Moroney is clearly one to look out for. Her break-out single, “Tennessee Orange” was one of the biggest songs of the year. Fans can anticipate her umping debut album that is slated to come sometime this year. What a way to start 2023!

 

BEN BURGESS –

who-is-ben-burgess

Listen: “Tears the Size Of Texas”
Stay Connected: @thebennyburgess

Known as a killer songwriter in Nashville, Ben Burgess made his artist debut in the last quarter of 2022 with his incredible album, Tears the Size of Texas. The ten-song project blew us away, and we knew then and there that he was destined to make this list. Burgess knows who he is as an artist, and he creates music for the everyday country music fan. Each and every one of his songs are sprinkled with a charm that only he could create. Learn more about his story here.

 

DYLAN MARLOWE –

Listen: “Why’d We Break Up Again”
Stay Connected: @dylanmarlowemusic

Dylan Marlowe is a young, standout artist who is wise beyond his years. Back in September we spotlighted his story and shared that he is about to blow up – we stand by that sentiment! This year, Marlowe garnered new fans everywhere he went while touring with Cole Swindell and Ashley Cooke. If 2022 was the year to set the stage for Marlowe, 2023 is the year that is going to continue his momentum to stardom. Check out his newest collaboration with Kasey Tyndall here.

 

MACKENZIE CARPENTER –

Listen: “Jesus, I’m Jealous”
Stay Connected:@mackcarpmusic

It is hard not to fall in love with Mackenzie Carpenter. A co-writer behind Lily Rose’s smash hit, “Villain,” Carpenter is the real deal as a songwriter alone; however, her striking vocals add to her undeniable talent. Her current single, “Jesus, I’m Jealous” is one of our favorite new songs, and we anticipate that 2023 is going to be an incredible year for the new recording artist.

 

TYLER BRADEN –

Listen: “Try Losing One”
Stay Connected: @tylerbradenmusic

Tyler Braden is the type of artist who knows exactly who is. The country-rock artist has the unique ability to create songs that are upbeat, yet sentimental or heartbreaking like his single, “Ways to Miss You.” This year, Braden is heading out on tour with Mitchell Tenpenny on the ‘This Is The Heavy’ tour and we look forward to seeing him win fans over show after show.

 

SHANE PROFITT –

who-is-shane-profitt

Listen: “Better Off Fishin'”
Stay Connected: @theshaneprofitt

We love a God moment, and Shane Profitt’s story is exactly that. Profitt is an artist that is hard not to love. His humble confidence is admirable, and his songs depict the exact experiences we all go through, while still conveying his own personal story. The Tennessee native lives and breathes country music, and it is evident both in his music and on stage.

 

AVERY ANNA –

who-is-avery-anna

Listen: “Narcissist”
Stay Connected: @avery.anna.music

Perhaps one of the biggest viral TikTok sensations on this list, Avery Anna rose to notoriety with her raw and incredible song “Narcissist.” She drew fans in by the thousands with each and every video she shared. Anna’s EP, Mood Swings solidified her staying power, showcasing her as a true star. The Warner Music Nashville signee continues to make waves in country music with each and every single note she sings and lyric she writes. Learn more about her story here.

 

ASHLAND CRAFT –

Listen: “Your Momma Still Does”
Stay Connected: @ashlandcraft

The last two years the landscape of country music has been all about Ashland Craft. Her debut album, TRAVELIN’ KIND is still making waves and garnering new fans for the songstress; despite, its 2021 release. The singer-songwriter is one of the most talented acts in country music. Her unique sound, vocal range and clever lyrics make her one of our easiest picks for this year’s list, hands down.

 

DALTON DOVER –

 

Listen: “Baby I Am”
Stay Connected: @daltondover_music

Dalton Dover first made a splash appearing on The Voice Season 16, where he got a chair turn from none other than Blake Shelton. Now, the talented singer-songwriter has won over fans everywhere amassing a huge fanbase on TikTok and putting out his own music, including one of our favorites – “Baby I Am”. Upon first listen, it’s easy to see Dover’s undeniable talent through his strong vocals and impressive delivery. We’re eager to follow along on Dover’s country music journey as he continues to build up his name.

 

JOSH ROSS –

who-is-josh-ross

Listen: “Trouble”
Stay Connected: @joshrossmusic

One of our favorite rising artists out there right now, Josh Ross has talent that everyone should know about. His song, “First Taste of Gone” was one of our favorite songs of 2022. With just a few songs out, Ross has already shown fans and industry alike that he is the real deal. Ross is cultivating his own sound, clearly influenced by his love of pop-punk music, current industry hitmakers, (HARDY, Morgan Wallen, Thomas Rhett), and rock elements. He is a must-listen to!

Like what you hear? Give a follow to our 2023 Artists to Watch Playlist here.

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

Check out the latest tunes in country music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

 

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Ashland Craft: ‘TRAVELIN’ KIND’ – Album Review

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Ashland Craft’s debut album, TRAVELIN’ KIND is available everywhere today, September 3rd. Craft penned nine out of the eleven original tracks on the one-of-a-kind record. Check out the full review and listen to the new music below.

Big Loud Records recording artist Ashland Craft is a true star in the making. The songstress utilizes her one of a kind vocals to showcase true heart and grit. Up until now we have only heard bits and pieces of Craft’s talent in her single releases, but now the wait for a full length project is finally over. Today the singer-songwriter dropped her debut album TRAVELIN’ KIND.

The record is a culmination of all of life’s experiences and adventures. Having written nine out of the eleven tracks, Craft has felt each of these songs and experiences deeply herself. “I really wanted this project to capture all the little sides of life in general that we’re kinda going through right now and what we have gone through recently because I think real life is the best way to connect with people,” shared the entertainer in an exclusive interview with Country Swag.

TRAVELIN’ KIND kicks off with the title track. Almost instantly, the listener knows that this record is going to take you on the ultimate journey. “Your Momma Still Does,” one of the two outside cuts off the record delivers the sentiment of heartbreak in a new and innovative way. Craft’s soulful and gritty tone is on full display on arguably one of the best songs on the project.

“Bet you don’t even think about picking up the phone // You don’t even think about saying you were wrong // You don’t even miss what me and you had // Yeah, I bet you don’t even think about that // You don’t even call me saying your sorry, you messed up // Yeah, but your momma still does”

Next up, “Leavin’ You Again” portrays how it feels to break-up again with someone you gave a second chance to. Craft delivers an emotive, yet cheeky delivery of the somber lyrics. In the same vein, one of the previously released singles, “Make It Past Georgia,” portrays angst too. The song conveys the heartbreaking connection between people and places. The songstress sings about traveling through state to state, but still having a hard time when she hits Georgia, a state that houses memories of a broken relationship. Craft’s honesty and vulnerability shine through on the track.

“Oh I never had trouble leaving them behind me // Oh it never took much to move on // I left Texas in the red dirt dust // It was easy leaving Louisiana // I hit 80 in a 55 // Just trying to cross Alabama line // Don’t miss a thing about Mississippi / Carolina keeps calling me // But I can’t seem to make it past Georgia”

Craft picks up the tempo on the center track, “Last 20 Dollars.” The fun-loving, 90s inspired country jam showcases the sassier side of the budding star. Similarly, both “Mimosas In The Morning” and “Come Down” show Craft shedding her more cynical side, and cracking the door open for love. All three songs feature incredible wordplay and storytelling.

“Highway Like Me” featuring Marcus King, another personal favorite off the project is a songwriter’s dream. Craft lays her heart out for fans in this poetic and beautiful song. She compares herself to a highway in a way that is ethereal and raw. Moreover, if you are not convinced by now of Craft’s talent, you will be after listening to this song and hearing her incredible vocals.

“That’s The Kinda Place” perfectly sits in the last spot of the tracklist. It wraps up all the stories Craft tells in the previous ten songs. It feels inviting, relatable, and homey, all ways country music is made to feel.

As a new artist, Ashland Craft manages to deliver a debut album that leaves us fully satisfied, yet still yearning for more. Kudos to Craft and her team for this masterpiece. Country fans, mark our words now: Craft is a superstar in the making.

Ashland Craft’s TRAVELIN’ KIND Track List:

  1. “Travelin’ Kind” (Ashland Craft, Erik Dylan)
  2. “Your Momma Still Does” (Jenna LaMaster, Jonathan Singleton)
  3. “Leavin’ You Again” (Ashland Craft, Jenna LaMaster, Faren Rachels)
  4. “Make It Past Georgia” (Ashland Craft, Reid Isbell, Willie Morrison)
  5. “Last 20 Dollars” (Ashland Craft, Wyatt Beasley Durrette, III, Jonathan Singleton)
  6. “Highway Like Me (feat. Marcus King)” (Ashland Craft, Jessi Alexander, Reid Isbell)
  7. “Mimosas In The Morning” (Ashland Craft, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jonathan Singleton
  8. “Day By Day” (Tori Allen, Corey Grogan)
  9. “Letcha Fly” (Ashland Craft, Willie Morrison, Lee Starr)
  10. “Come Down” (Ashland Craft, Adam Hood, Rob Snyder)
  11. “That’s The Kinda Place” (Ashland Craft, Rodney Clawson, Jonathan Singleton)

Country Swag Picks:

  1. “Your Momma Still Does”
  2. “Highway Like Me”
  3. “Make It Past Georgia”
  4. “Mimosas In The Morning”
Ashland-Craft-New-Song-Make-It-Past-Georgia

Ashland Craft’s debut album ‘TRAVELIN’ KIND’ is officially out now on all streaming platforms.

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

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

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

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5 Things to Expect from Ashland Craft’s Debut Album ‘TRAVELIN’ KIND’

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We chatted with country songstress Ashland Craft about her debut album, TRAVELIN’ KIND due out this Friday, September 3rd. Here are five things to expect from the project.

  1. Ashland Craft did not intend to write nine out of the eleven songs off the project, but we’re so glad she did!

“Honestly it was never really a thing to me that I have to write every song. I just wanted whatever song that was going to compliment the record to go on the record. It’s always about that songs first.”

 

  1. She wants fans to really ‘feel’ the record and the story behind the songs.

“I think the biggest thing I hope is kind of the start of it all, is hopefully the fans seeing a little bit of my story and getting to connect with them on a deeper level, and connecting the music and the fans.”

 

  1. TRAVELIN’ KIND is intentionally the culmination of all aspects of life.

“I really wanted this project to capture all the little sides of life in general that we’re kinda going through right now and what we have gone through recently because I think real life is the best way to connect with people.”

 

  1. Some of the songs such as “Come Down” were written during the pandemic.

“That song touched me because it’s one of those more poetic-sense songs that remind me of who you are. If the pandemic hadn’t of happened, I don’t think those songs would have came to life.”

 

  1. Craft believes that songs [like hers] that came out of the pandemic are going to be some of the best music out there.

“It really made us get a little bit more hone in on what we wanted to say and how we wanted to say it. I predicted from day one when the pandemic happened that there’s going to be a ton of  amazing music that comes out of this.”

 

Ashland-Craft-New-album-debut-travelin-kind

Ashland Craft’s debut album ‘TRAVELIN’ KIND’ is due out this Friday, September 3rd.

Check back here on Friday, September 3rd and click here for our exclusive interview and full album review of Ashland Craft’s TRAVLIN’ KIND.

To keep up with Ashland Craft, 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 Ashland Craft releases.

* Interview Conducted by: Stephanie Wagner // Written by: Erica Zisman for Country Swag

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Ashland Craft Debuts New Song “Make It Past Georgia”

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Ashland Craft’s new song “Make It Past Georgia” is available now, July 23rd, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new song.

Upon the announcement of her debut album TRAVELIN’ KIND, Big Loud Records recording artist Ashland Craft is sharing new music with fans. A true star in the making, Craft is both an incredible vocalist and songwriter. Today, she debuts her brand new song “Make It Past Georgia.”

Written by Craft with Reid Isbell, and Willie Morrison, the new song conveys the heartbreaking connection between people and places. The songstress sings about traveling through state to state, but still having a hard time when she hits Georgia, a state that houses memories of a broken relationship. Craft’s honesty and vulnerability shine through on the new track.

“Oh I never had trouble leaving them behind me // Oh it never took much to move on // I left Texas in the red dirt dust // It was easy leaving Louisiana // I hit 80 in a 55 // Just trying to cross Alabama line // Don’t miss a thing about Mississippi / Carolina keeps calling me // But I can’t seem to make it past Georgia”

“Make It Past Georgia” is the first release from the upcoming record. The new project will feature eleven original songs, nine of which are co-written by the artist. Fans can expect heavy-hitting, brazen, and vulnerable tunes. Craft is a true artist in every sense of the word!

Ashland Craft’s TRAVELIN’ KIND Track List:

1. “Travelin’ Kind” (Ashland Craft, Erik Dylan)
2. “Your Momma Still Does” (Jenna LaMaster, Jonathan Singleton)
3. “Leavin’ You Again” (Ashland Craft, Jenna LaMaster, Faren Rachels)
4. “Make It Past Georgia” (Ashland Craft, Reid Isbell, Willie Morrison)
5. “Last 20 Dollars” (Ashland Craft, Wyatt Beasley Durrette, III, Jonathan Singleton)
6. “Highway Like Me (feat. Marcus King)” (Ashland Craft, Jessi Alexander, Reid Isbell)
7. “Mimosas In The Morning” (Ashland Craft, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jonathan Singleton)
8. “Day By Day” (Tori Allen, Corey Grogan)
9. “Letcha Fly” (Ashland Craft, Willie Morrison, Lee Starr)
10. “Come Down” (Ashland Craft, Adam Hood, Rob Snyder)
11. “That’s The Kinda Place” (Ashland Craft, Rodney Clawson, Jonathan Singleton)

Ashland-Craft-New-Song-Make-It-Past-Georgia

Ashland Craft’s new song “Make It Past Georgia,” is available now.

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

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

“Make It Past Georgia” 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.

Ashland Craft Releases New Song “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine”

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Ashland Craft’s new song, “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine” is available now, November 20th, everywhere you buy or stream music. Written by Craft with Jonathan Singleton, and Rob Snyder, take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

Country newcomer, Ashland Craft is a vocalist and a songwriter fans are going to want to pay attention to. After releasing her debut single, “Trainwreck” back in April, Craft has been hard at work to follow up the major-label release. Today, she premieres her new song “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine.”

Coined by Craft as “the closest I’ll get to a love song, at least right now,” the new jam is a song for the lovers and the dreamers. “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine” is laced with powerful imagery, that southern-rock flair, and the songstress’s signature gritty vocals. Instead of being a straight-lace love song, Craft wrote a song with songwriters, Jonathan Singleton, and Rob Synder that will resonate with the misfits, the wild ones, and the star-gazers.

“I”ll be all yours and you can be all mine / Just two wildflowers and a box of wine / Just two wildflowers and a box of wine”

Craft is one of the most exciting new singer-songwriters out there right now. Fans of HARDY, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wallen are sure to fall in love with her undeniable charm and talent. She is one to look out for and to keep on your playlists!

Ashland Craft "Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine"

Ashland Craft, “Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine” available now, November 20

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

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

“Two Wildflowers and a Box of Wine” 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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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

Newcomer Ashland Craft Premieres Debut “Trainwreck”

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Ashland Craft

Photo Credit: Brayln Kelly

Country music newest songstress, Ashland Craft has been making waves as the opening act on tours with the likes of Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen. Between her gritty vocals and her honesty, Craft fits right in with the boys. Her debut single “Trainwreck” premiered today.

With her first release, Craft proves that she is not afraid to approach subjects normally sung by male country artists. The vocalist sings about being a heartbreaker in the sentimental, yet edgy slow jam. She admits to not having it all together calling herself a “trainwreck,” and revealing, “It’s a sure bet, you’ll get your heart broke every time.” Her first release will tug at your heartstrings, but it is her vulnerable delivery that will make you root for her success. Along with her debut release, Craft announced that she signed a record deal with Big Loud, the record label home of Chris Lane, HARDY, and Morgan Wallen, amongst other powerhouse rising talent.

“Signing a record deal is always something that I dreamed about and I honestly can’t believe the day is finally here. This is the biggest milestone I’ve hit so far in my life, hands down. Everyone that I’m surrounded by – Big Loud Records, Make Wake Artists, and 50 Egg Music – they honestly are my dream team. It just makes me want to work even harder to honor all of the opportunity that I’ve been given.”

Since moving to Nashville, the singer has both branded herself and toured with some of the most popular names in country music right now like Blake Shelton, and one of our favorites, HARDY. We can’t wait to see how her debut and her country-rock sound resonates with fans, but we think female country fans especially will relate to her authenticity. As always, we will keep you posted on this country music newcomer’s journey.

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

“Trainwreck” 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.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

Morgan Wallen Announces Whiskey Glasses Roadshow

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Morgan Wallen announced yesterday that he will roll into the new year with a brand new headlining tour, the Whiskey Glasses Roadshow. Named after his most recent number one single, “Whiskey Glasses” the tour will kick off in Michigan and continue into the spring. He hasn’t announced a New York date just yet but we’ll keep you posted if he does!

Along for the roadshow is one of our most recent Swag Spotlights, Jon Langston as well as Ashland Craft. The singer-songwriter wrapped up his opening slot on Florida Georiga Line’s Can’t Say I Ain’t Country Tour, where we caught up with him this past summer. Watch the full interview below.

He is currently out on the Beer Never Broke My Heart Tour with Luke Combs and also announced he will be opening up for Jason Aldean on his We Back Tour later in 2020.

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

MONSTER ENERGY OUTBREAK TOUR PRESENTS: MORGAN WALLEN’S WHISKEY GLASSES ROADSHOW Tour Dates – 

January 2 | Grand Rapids, MI – 20 Monroe Live
January 3 | Detroit, MI – The Fillmore
January 4 | Rosemont, IL – Rosemont Theatre
January 9 | New Orleans, LA – The Fillmore
January 10 | Houston, TX – House of Blues
January 11 | Irving, TX – Toyota Music Factory
January 16 | Northfield, OH – MGM Northfield Park
January 17 | Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room
January 18 | Cincinnati, OH – Taft Theatre
March 19 | Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore
March 20 | Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
March 21 | North Myrtle Beach, SC – House of Blues
April 9 | Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore
April 11 | Boston, MA – House of Blues
April 17 | Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
April 23 | San Jose, CA – San Jose Civic
April 29 | Boise, ID – Revolution Concert House
April 30 | Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
May 1 | Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook: