Avenue BEat Archives

Avenue Beat: ‘the debut farewell album’ – Album Review

October 15, 2021/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

Avenue Beat’s debut and final album the debut farewell album is officially out on all streaming platforms today, October 15th. Listen to the full project below and check out our review.

Our favorite country-pop girl group, Avenue Beat is officially breaking-up. Although sad, it is the perfect, ironic timing for the trio to release their debut record. Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, and Sam Backoff established themselves as trendsetters and true individuals, and the brand new record is the perfect send off. the debut farewell album is officially out now.

The record kicks off with arguably the song of 2020, the iconic, “F2020.” A true embodiment of how we all felt during the height of the pandemic, Avenue Beat do not shy away from he truth in this song, a common thread throughout their music. Similarly their previously relate songs “woman” and “I don’t really like your boyfriend,” showcases their flirty and sassy sides of their artistry.

On “rock in outer space,” the threesome explore the idea that we take life so seriously, yet we are literally “floating on a rock in outer space.” Their approach is both interesting and introspective.

The ladies continue their cool-girl vibe on “dtf” and “space for you.” The former is a catchy tune about getting closer with someone you like. Although we all know what the acronym stands for, Avenue Beat changes it to “down to fly” and later, “down to fight.” The latter, “space for you” is a slow-burn that feels confident and deep. It is clear the songstresses know a thing or two about love.

Avenue Beat continue to explore the meaning of life and love on the next couple of tracks, “new strangers” and “parties.” “new strangers” is a harmonic masterpiece. With lyrics like, “I feel like I’m not keeping old friends, I’m just making new strangers,” it is hard not to fall in love with this pensive jam. On the other hand “parties” is an explorative song about both anxiety and dealing with our twenties.

Before the last three songs off the project, Avenue Beat feature a personal interlude. The final three songs all convey the sadness the artists feel about Sami deciding to leave the band.

“different” showcases how Backoff and Santos feel about losing their band member. Their honesty and integrity shine on this sad, but beautiful track. “happy for you” takes things a step further and deeper into the vulnerability. “it’s weird that both these things can be true // that I’m happy for you // and I hate that I have to be happy for you.”

Finally, the record culminates with “this is goodbye” featuring Summer Overstreet, the unofficial forth member of the band. The song is a harmony-forward ballad. All their vocals shine on the track. It is clear that the ladies are saying goodbye to the incredible artistry that they have created together throughout their time at major label.

Although this record is a goodbye record, we sincerely hope there will be more from Sam Backoff and Savana Santos in the future. The twosome clearly love what they do, and country music, and fans around the world need them, even if its not Avenue Beat. Congrats to the ladies on a stellar project!

the debut farewell album Track List:

F2020 | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos
woman | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Joey Hendricks, Michael Whitworth*
I don’t really like your boyfriend | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet
rock in outer space | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet+
dtf | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet, Jordyn Shellhart, Emily Weisband^
space for you | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet^
new strangers | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Jason Gantt
parties | Sam Backoff, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet
interlude | Sam Backoff, Savana Santos
different | Sam Backoff, Savana Santos
happy for you | Sam Backoff, Savana Santos, Victoria Canal, Summer Overstreet
this is goodbye (featuring Summer Overstreet) | Sam Backoff, Savana Santos, Summer Overstreet

Produced by Savana Santos
*Produced by Savana Santos, Alysa Vanderheym
+Produced by Savana Santos, Julian Bunetta
^Produced by Savana Santos, Julian Bunetta, John Ryan, Afterhrs

OUR PICKS:

“new strangers”
“this is goodbye”
“F2020”
“different”

Avenue Beat’s record ‘the debut farewell album’ is officially out now.

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

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

the debut farewell album 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.

Country Songs That Embody 2020

December 31, 2020/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

The top country songs that embody 2020…

At last, 2020 is coming to an end. Despite how crazy this year has been, country music still prevailed, bringing us new songs, records, and even livestreams to enjoy. We thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of the songs that we think personified this year.

“F2020” – Avenue Beat

“Lowkey fuck 2020 / I don’t know about everybody else / But I think that I am kinda done / Can we just get to 2021”

Obviously, we have to start our list off with this certified jam! The ladies killed it with this viral song, personifying exactly how we all felt midway through quarantine. Of course, regardless, it’s such a bop.

“7 Summers”- Morgan Wallen

“Back then you used to love the river / And sippin’ on a mixer with me / Does it ever make you sad to know / That was seven summers ago”

This nostalgic Morgan Wallen tune is quite possibly one of his best to date. Despite the fact that it’s about a past relationship, the song brings back memories of better days and even more innocent times. It is also super catchy and Wallen’s vocals shine on the track.

“Black Like Me”- Mickey Guyton

“It’s a hard life on easy street / Just white painted picket fences far as you can see / If you think we live in the land of the free / You should try to be black like me”

One of the most poignant country songs arguable ever, Mickey Guyton spoke her truth with this powerful song. Making the country music industry and the world pay attention to the societal issues in regards to racism and disenfranchisement, we are so happy that this song was brought to life by the incredible artist.

“I Should Probably Go to Bed” – Dan + Shay

“In a crowd of strangers and lovers / Someone told me that you were coming so / I should probably go to bed”

The irony of this song just cannot be beat. Although it was not about the pandemic, we cannot help but think that we “should probably go to bed,” when we are fatigued from the whole year. Also, the song is just plain great, so it had to make our list.

“We Were Rich”- Runaway June

“I never thought that grass was greener / On the other side of our old chain link fence / Yeah, we were rich”

Runaway June’s latest single, “We Were Rich” was one of our favorites off their last project. The song reminds us to be thankful for what we have, even when times are tough. It is the perfect reminder for us during these last few months and into 2021.

“Six Feet Apart”- Luke Combs

“But there’ll be crowds and there’ll be shows / And light after dark / Someday when we aren’t six feet apart”

Luke Combs was honestly the king of quarantine, giving fans so much new music. This particular song is lyrically-genius. He reminds us all that the world will not be like this forever, a reminder that we definitely all need.

“Be A Light”- Thomas Rhett + Friends

“In a world full of hate, be a light / When you do somebody wrong, make it right”

Finally, we leave you with this impactful song by Thomas Rhett featuring Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, and Keith Urban. This song is the encouragement we need in our world right now. Even in the darkest of times, there is always good in the world. If you cannot find any, be the light.

As we look forward to a better 2021, we want to thank each and every one of you who show us so much love throughout the year. We are looking forward to the new year and better days together!

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

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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. 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,
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Avenue Beat Release Studio Version of Viral Hit, “F2020”

July 10, 2020/in Blog, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

Every time we write about the powerful female trio that is Avenue Beat, we become more and more in awe of their talent, charisma, and uniqueness. Their song “i don’t really like your boyfriend” went viral on TikTok just last month, and fans begged for the rising artists to release a recorded version, they obliged. Now, Avenue Beat is at it again with another viral song, “F2020.”

Like all of us, Sami, Savana, and Sam have been navigating this pandemic in their own ways. For the songstresses, singing and songwriting seem to have remained their number one coping skill, and we are reaping the benefits. “F2020” is an anthem for this year. The ladies cuss out the year with this necessary, yet pleasing song. The second the beat drops and the chorus hits, you become a full-fledged fan of the song and in turn of Avenue Beat.

“Yo my cat died / and a global pandemic took over my life / And I put out some music nobody liked / So I got really sad and bored at the same time / That’s why I’m like / Lowkey fuck 2020/ Still sad, still ain’t got no money”

The ladies express all the turmoil we all feel about how crazy this year has been so far. Through their catchy, yet truthful lyrics. Furthermore, the fact that they had the courage to release it on their social media platforms, and now obliging fans once again by recording it, just shows how much guts and passion they have for their music and their fans. You’re lying if you don’t think “F2020” is a smash hit. Avenue Beat has somehow found their own lane in music, and we are loving every second of it.

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

“F2020” 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:

Avenue Beat Is Speaking the Truth with “Fuck 2020”

July 2, 2020/in Blog, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

Literally every time we write about the powerful female trio that is Avenue Beat, we become more and more in awe of their talent, charisma, and uniqueness. Their song “i don’t really like your boyfriend” went viral on TikTok just last month, and fans begged for the rising artists to release a recorded version, they obliged. Now, Avenue Beat is at it again with another viral song, “Fuck 2020.”

Like all of us, Sami, Savana, and Sam have been navigating this pandemic in their own ways. For the songstresses, singing and songwriting seem to have remained their number one coping skill, and we are reaping the benefits. “Fuck 2020” is an anthem for this year. The ladies cuss out the year with this necessary, yet pleasing song. The second the beat drops and the chorus hits, you become a full-fledged fan of the song and in turn of Avenue Beat.

“Yo my cat died / and a global pandemic took over my life / And I put out some music nobody liked / So I got really sad and bored at the same time / That’s why I’m like / Lowkey fuck 2020/ Still sad, still ain’t got no money”

The ladies express all the turmoil we all feel about how crazy this year has been so far. Through their catchy, yet truthful lyrics. Furthermore, the fact that they had the courage to release it on their social media platforms, and are now, once again, obliging fans by recording it, just shows how much guts and passion they have for their music and their fans. You’re lying if you don’t think “Fuck 2020” is a smash hit. Avenue Beat has somehow found their own lane in music, and we are loving every second of it.

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

—————

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:

Avenue Beat Releases New Bop “i don’t really like your boyfriend”

May 22, 2020/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

Every time Avenue Beat release a new song, post a video of them on Instagram, or just really do anything, we are automatically hooked. Earlier this week the ladies posted a Tiktok of them dancing around to their unreleased song “i don’t really like your boyfriend.” The video garnered 1.3 million views, fans fell in love instantly and begged the girls to release the song. Flash forward to today, Avenue Beat gave the fans what they wanted and the song is officially out across all streaming platforms!

@avenuebeatday 2 of getting our manager to let us release this by getting it to pop off on tiktok ##usethisaudio ##girlband ##originalsong ##originalcontent ♬ i dont really like your boyfriend – avenuebeat

The new jam is perfect. It has Avenue Beat’s signature style and swagger, as well as, their honest, no fluff lyrics. The girls tell it how it is and fans appreciate their fresh approach. They are true icons in the making and role models for how to carry yourself, and this song is just another notch on their belt. Not to mention, it will be stuck in your head right away!

“In my unbiased opinion, you’re a motha’ fricken catch / Got a body like a model and a heart of gold to match / Every party that we go to every guy there wants to know you / So please tell me why you chose to date this piece of human trash”

Lyrically, the song is about sticking up for your best friend and telling her that she can do better than the boy she has chosen to be with. Although this type of honesty is not always appreciated right away, it is definitely the tough love that a person needs to hear. Kudos to Avenue Beat for always speaking their truth and covering even taboo topics.

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

“i don’t really like your boyfriend” 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:

NYCS First Impression: Avenue Beat ‘the quarantine covers’

April 24, 2020/in Blog, New Music /by Erica Zisman

STREAM IT HERE

Our favorite new girl group, Avenue Beat is combatting the craziness of quarantine and the pandemic by giving us a fun new project to listen to, following the recent release of their newest original “thank you anxiety”. The talented trio recorded five of their favorite songs, adding their own flair and insane harmonies to each track in a project they are calling the quarantine covers.

Besides the fact that the three singers, Sami, Savana, and Sam are all extremely talented vocalists and songwriters, this record stands out for its unique influences. Each of the five songs that Avenue Beat chose to cover were originally recorded by artists from all different genres and eras of music. Moreover, the ladies took it back to their roots, singing and recording covers, a skill that put them on the map.

After a quick intro, the record kicks off with an enticing cover of hip-hop artist, Doja Cat’s “Say So.” Sami, Savana, and Sam turn the usually upbeat song into a touching and emotive acoustic song, which perfectly embodies their unique artistry. They refer to their rendition as a “Norah Jones” inspired tune on their Instagram. The next song, “Video” was originally recorded by Grammy-winner India Arie, a soul and pop artist. Both tracks feature Avenue Beat’s style, but “Video” seems to be a song that the trio could have written themselves. Their version, though stripped down, keeps with the authenticity of the original, giving off that soulful flair.

The next two songs on the project might be the most recognizable. The first is John Mayer’s “New Light.” The acoustic cover pays homage to the almost psychedelic rhythm of the original. Of course, the ladies also include a stunning cover of Tim McGraw’s “Humble And Kind,” a cover that they originally premiered on their Instagram. Some may also recognize this song as prolific songwriter, Lori McKenna’s iconic solo write. Their harmonies add an incredibly divine twist to the brilliant track.

Finally, the records wraps with the last song, “Just The Two Of Us.” The song is a classic 80s track written and recorded by both Bill Withers and Grover Washington Jr. Avenue Beat completely reinvent the song, while still keeping with the integrity of the original. Once again their ability to make listeners feel like a classic song is their own is truly unmatched.

As if it wasn’t perfect enough, Avenue Beat also include an “Outro” to formally end their fun and quirky project. The ending is 40 seconds of The Beatles infamous song “All You Need is Love,” which is the perfect reminder in these crazy times.

To hear more tunes by Avenue Beat, check out our Swag Session with the songstresses below.

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

the quarantine covers 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.

Quarantine Covers Tracklist:

Intro
“Say So”
“Video”
“New Light”
“Humble And Kind”
“Just The Two Of Us”
Outro

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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. 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:

Avenue Beat Releases Relevant Track “thank you anxiety”

April 13, 2020/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

“Keeping me up till 1:45, got my mind and my heart racing,” sings the talented ladies of Avenue Beat. The trio continues to release song after song that resonates with their fanbase while maintaining their own integrity and unique style throughout their music. Most recently the Swag Session alumni premiered their newest song “thank you anxiety,” and we cannot get enough of it.

Avenue Beat leaves no stone unturned in their new release, singing about how it feels to struggle with anxiety. Despite a heavy topic such as mental health, the incredible songstresses deliver their message with sincerity, honesty, and a necessary touch of sass and sarcasm. The ladies prove that they aren’t afraid to just ‘go there’ with their lyrics.

“anxiety can be scary and difficult to be upfront and honest about. It’ something that we deal with and have to learn how to work through,” the singers shared in a recent press release. “One thing that has helped is knowing that other people are experiencing the same feelings. Our hope with sharing ‘thank you anxiety’ is that it makes everyone feel a little less alone, especially during these crazy times,” they added. We certainly think that they have accomplished their goals.

As we eagerly await a full-length project from the rising artists, we encourage country music fans to stream Avenue Beat’s other songs like “Ruin That For Me” and “Delight.” The ladies are proving their staying power with each release, and we cannot wait to see what they have up their sleeve next.

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

“thank you anxiety” 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:

Vote for Avenue Beat for Taco Bell & iHeart Radio’s Feed the Beat Contest

February 25, 2020/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

The iHeart Radio Music Awards are on March 29th on FOX and one of our 2020 Artists to Watch, Avenue Beat is nominated to perform during a special performance during the show. Taco Bell and iHeart are giving fans not only a chance to pick which artist they get to see but Taco Bell wants to send one lucky fan and their guest to the awards in LA!

For the full list of country acts nominated, click here.

Let’s not forget, the lyrics to one of their songs, “Delight” actually name drops Taco Bell 😉

VOTE HERE.

Watch our Swag Session with the ladies below.

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

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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. 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:

Maddie & Tae Heading Out on the Tourist In This Town Tour

January 14, 2020/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

Maddie & Tae are prepping their next full-length album, they are also planning a busy year on the road. The talented duo announced this morning that they will head out on their own, headlining Tourist In This Town Tour for a handful of dates before taking the opening slot on Lady Antebellum’s OCEAN Tour.

Joining Maddie & Tae are one of our 2020 Artists to Watch, Avenue Beat. The trio is the perfect opening act for this tour, as both groups cater to not only a younger fan base but females who are earning for inspiration and songs that they can relate to.

“Feels so surreal to be going out on a headlining tour, especially with our new record,” said Dye in a press release. “These songs are our raw unfiltered stories, and we can’t wait to tell them live.” We caught Maddie & Tae when they were direct support on Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty 360 Tour and they blew us away. “We’ve waited five years to go back out on a headlining tour. We are so excited to see our beautiful fans singing all of this new music,” added Marlow.

Tickets go on-sale this Friday, Jan. 17 at 10 am local time at www.maddieandtae.com

TOURIST IN THIS TOWN TOUR DATES:
4/15 – Baltimore Soundstage – Baltimore, MD
4/16 – The Bluestone – Columbus, OH
4/17 – Manchester Music Hall – Lexington, KY
4/29 – Buckhead Theatre – Atlanta, GA
5/1 – Music Farm – Charleston, SC
5/2 – Von Braun Center – Mars Music Hall – Huntsville, AL
5/15 – Varsity Theatre – Baton Rouge, LA
7/11 – Temple Live – Wichita, KS

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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. 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:

NYCountry Swag’s 2020 Artists To Watch

January 6, 2020/in Blog /by Stephanie Wagner and Christina Bosch

The New York Country Swag team loves to support rising artists and introduce our followers to the best new music in the genre. Since our inception four years ago we have named rising stars like Russell Dickerson, Luke Combs, Brett Young, Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny, and Jimmie Allen as our Artists to Watch. Check out our picks in 2017, 2018, and 2019 before checking out the 10 artists we picked to have a huge 2020 below.

10. Parker McCollum – This Texas native may have just released his first song on a major label, “Pretty Heart” this past summer after signing with MCA Nashville/UMG Nashville but in the past, he has independently delivered two full-length projects. Focusing on the depth and artistry behind songwriting, McCollum has found a clever balance between traditional Texas country and what is coming out of modern Nashville. We are looking forward to more new music in 2020 and to catch a live show.

For Fans Of: Cody Johnson, Riley Green

Listen: “Pretty Heart”

Stay Connected: @ParkerMcCollum

9. Madison Kozak – Growing up in Ontario but moving to Nashville when she was only 14 years old, Kozak has been chasing the music dream, honing in on her incredible ability to write a song that is filled with emotions for years. We first heard of the songstress in May we were instantly hooked and since then 2019 was a whirlwind for the budding star, signing a record deal as the flagship artist on a female-driven label, Songs & Daughters and touring the country on three different tours. Label head, Nicolle Galyon in partnership with Big Loud Records saw something special in this songwriter artist after hearing “First Last Name”, a song she wrote for her father and ever since has been releasing exceptional songs. She kicks off the new year by heading overseas to tour with Chase Rice.

For Fans Of: Kelsea Ballerini, Carrie Underwood

Listen: “OMG ILY”

Stay Connected: @Madison_Kozak

8. King Calaway – Last January we were introduced to a brand new band comprised of six talented musicians from different places, Caleb Miller (Ohio), Chris Deaton (Nashville), Simon Dumas (Gibraltar), Jordan Harvey (Scotland), Chad Michael Jervis (Delaware), and Austin Luther (Minnesota). One of the very first time they played for fans before their music was released, King Calaway performed a showcase with NYCountry Swag in New York City and all in attendance were blown away. Their impeccable harmonies, catchy tunes, and larger than life personalities have since caught the attention of country music fans across the nation. Their debut record, Rivers features 12 tracks written by some of Nashville’s biggest songwriters and covers an array of topics.

For Fans Of: One Direction, Rascal Flatts

Listen: “Rivers”

Stay Connected: @KingCalaway

7. Chris Bandi – When a song is streamed 60 million times, you know there is something special about it. St. Louis native, Nashville based artist and songwriter Chris Bandi is pushing his major-label debut, “Man Enough Now” to country radio this year and the tale rings true of realizing your mistakes, owning them and hoping for a second chance. Bandi will hit the road with Matt Stell in the upcoming months and sources say plans to release an EP as well.

For Fans Of: Gavin DeGraw, Chris Lane

Listen: “Man Enough Now”

Stay Connected: @ChrisBandi

6. Ingrid Andress – We first caught songwriter/artist Ingrid Andress last February during an NYC showcase right after she was signed to Warner Music Nashville/Atlantic Records and her unique presence, storytelling ability, and hilarious realness caught our attention immediately. With songs like “More Hearts Than Mine”, “Both”, and “Lady Like”, Andress pushes the boundaries of topics usually discussed in the country format, forcing new followers to pay attention. She was named one of CRS New Faces for the class of 2020, a prestigious honor and she joins Dan + Shay on the first leg of their arena tour in 2020.

For Fans Of: Kacey Musgraves, Ashley McBryde

Listen: “More Hearts Than Mine”

Stay Connected: @IngridAndress

5. Ross Ellis – Although a bit more undiscovered than the rest of our list, Ross Ellis has a powerhouse, unique voice and his latest single “Buy and Buy” is compelling and begs for repeat spins. By weaving a powerful visual of religion, addiction, and wasted time, “Buy and Buy” is as profound as it is innovative. As a songwriter, Ellis co-wrote one of Tim McGraw’s latest singles, “Neon Church” and a song on Home Free’s new album, Dive Bar Saints called “Dreamer” but in 2020 we hope to hear new songs from Ellis as we continue to champion rising artists and songwriters like him.

For Fans Of: Brett Young, Dan + Shay

Listen: “Buy and Buy”

Stay Connected: @RossEllisMusic

4. Avenue Beat – Our most unique, fresh, and different act on this year’s Artists to Watch is Avenue Beat. Comprised of three girls from Illinois, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, and Sam Backoff they are original and their creative new wave country is as endearing as it is inventive. Their harmonies, melodies, and frankly genius lyrics are relatable to a niche of young women that are thirsty for someone to sing about what they are going through. Signed to Big Machine Label Group’s Valory Music Co. in partnership with Tape Room Records they released their debut self-titled EP in July and toured with Mason Ramsey in 2019. If you are looking for some sass with a side of sensational lyrics, look no further than Avenue Beat.

For Fans Of: Walker Hayes, Kelsea Ballerini

Listen: “Be A Bro”

Stay Connected: @AvenueBeat

3. Jameson Rodgers – Last February we interviewed Jameson Rodgers for our Swag Spotlight feature, right after he released his EP which featured his break out hit, “Some Girls”. This Mississippi native is now planted firmly in Nashville, writing and creating music as a Sony Music Nashville artist and has toured with Luke Combs on his Beer Never Broke My Heart tour and just announced that in 2020 he will embark on his very first headlining tour. Relatable lyrics that are set to a modern-day twang, Rodgers has already garnered a ton of fans and hopefully the new year we can expect a full-length album.

For Fans Of: Jon Pardi, Luke Combs

Listen: “Some Girls”

Stay Connected: @JamesonRodgers

2. Gabby Barrett – She may have become a household name because of her stint on American Idol but Gabby Barrett is showing Nashville and the country music community that women want to hear a female write a song from her own perspective. Her debut radio single, “I Hope” not only features her sultry voice but has a twist in the chorus that will make men and women fall in love with her honest take on a bad breakup. Having toured with Chris Lane, Barrett is already included in major festival line ups including Stagecoach, Tortuga, and New York’s own TrailBlazer.

For Fans Of: Maren Morris, Lauren Alaina

Listen: “I Hope”

Stay Connected: @GabbyBarrett_

1. HARDY – Already having a huge break out year in 2019, HARDY celebrated four number one songs as a songwriter, “God’s Country”, “I Don’t Know About You”, “Simple”, and “Up Down”. He also released one of the most prolific albums of the year, HIXTAPE Vol. 1 which features 17 different artists, all singing about growing up in a small town. Emerging as an artist, HARDY has created a persona that makes you envy his Mississippi upbringing, making ‘redneck’ cool. In October we caught his sold-out headlining NYC show and just announced, the songwriter and artist will join Cole Swindell and Thomas Rhett on the Center Point Road tour which will make it’s away across the country this summer.

For Fans Of: Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line

Listen: “One Beer”

Stay Connected: @HARDY

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The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

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