Tag Archive for: Best Country Music Songs

Country Music Songs to Help You Through a Breakup

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Breakups are tough. You think that your heart is going to be broken forever or that you may never find your person. We are here to tell you that while it may not seem like it now, things are going to get better. Are you going through a breakup? Here are ten country songs to help you get through the tough times.

“Down to the Bar” – Cole Swindell featuring Hardy

When going through a breakup, you want to try and forget your ex. “Down to the Bar” helps you do just that. Written by Swindell, Hardy, Jordan Schmidt and Josh Thompson, this song reminds you that it’s ok to head down to the bar to enjoy a few drinks to help mend that broken heart. 

“Well, take my broke heart down to the bar // Down, down to the bar, yeah down to the bar //  Let me get to grievin’ baby I’ll even throw your bag in the trunk”.

 

“Miss Me More” – Kelsea Ballerini

While we may not realize it, there are some things we change about ourselves while in a relationship to please our significant others. Breaking up with the person who caused you to change for the worse, can be freeing. Written by Ballerini, David Hodges, Leland, and Brett McLaughlin, “Miss Me More” will help you find your true self again.

“I thought I’d miss you // But I miss me more // I miss my own beat, to my own snare drum // I miss me more”

 

“What He Didn’t Do” – Carly Pearce

We all deserve to be treated right in a relationship and sometimes when we are head over heels for someone, we don’t see that we are being treated unfairly or seen as a priority. Written by Pearce, Ashley Gorley, and Emily Shackelton, this song will help you realize that there is someone out there who will not only treat you right but someone who will always put you first.

“But I’ll tell you what he didn’t do // Treat me right, put me first, be a man of his word // Stay home ‘cause he wanted to // always fight for my love, hold on tight like it’s something that he couldn’t stand to lose”

 

“When It Rains It Pours” – Luke Combs

When a relationship ends it may seem like the end of the world. However, good things are bound to come from it. Written by Combs, Jordan Walker, and Ray Fulcher, this is a song that will instantly put you in a good mood while putting your relationship in the past.

“Well I’ve been on one hell of a redneck roll //  For Three Weeks Now // And it all started on the day that she walked out” 

 

“Die From a Broken Heart” – Maddie and Tae

It’s ok to feel sad while going through a breakup.  There is no time limit on when you have to feel better. Just remember, you won’t be sad forever.  Written by Maddie Marlow, Taylor Dye, Deric Ruttan, and Jonathan Singleton, “Die From A Broken Heart” is the perfect song to listen to when you need a good cry.

“How does one sleep at night? // Mama, the nerve of this guy // To leave me so easy // Am I gonna be alright? // I wanna kick myself for falling so hard // Mama, can you die from a broken heart?”

 

“Whiskey Glasses” – Morgan Wallen

Sometimes it’s hard to face the truth that your relationship is over. Morgan Wallen lets us know that’s ok with “Whiskey Glasses”. Written by Ben Burgess and Kevin Kadish, this song, along with some whiskey, will help you forget about your breakup.

“I’ma need some whiskey glasses // ‘Cause I don’t want to see the truth.”

 

“Better Man” – Little Big Town

It might take some time but eventually, you will start to realize you deserve better. And as that happens, it’s also ok to still miss your significant other and wish they could have changed. Written by Taylor Swift, “Better Man” reminds you that while feelings don’t disappear right away, there is someone out there well deserving of yourself who you won’t have to wish was a better person.

“Sometimes, in the middle of the night, I can feel you again // But I just miss you, and I wish you were a better man // And I know why we had to say goodbye like the back of my hand”

 

“I Bet You Think About Me” – Taylor Swift ft. Chris Stapleton

“I Bet You Think About Me” is a fun song that will put a well-needed smile on your face. Written by Swift and Lori McKenna, this song that reminds you of your self-worth and you will be a hard person to get over.  

“But now that we’re done and it’s over // I bet it’s hard to believe // But it turned out I’m harder to forget than I was to leave // Then yeah I bet you think about me”

 

“New Truck” – Dylan Scott

Whether you were in a relationship that lasted years, months, or weeks, doing your day-to-day routine without them can be tough.  Written by Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps, and Michael Hardy, “New Truck” is about making a clean break. It is the perfect song to listen to as you are getting rid of the things that remind you of your ex.

“I need one she ain’t climbed up in // That ain’t played her favorite songs // Need some glass that we won’t fogged up”

 

“Rock and a Hard Place” – Bailey Zimmerman

Deciding to break up with someone can be a decision that weighs on you for a long time. There are the questions of whether will you be ok with the aftermath, whether you could have worked things out, etc. Written by Zimmerman, Heath Warren, Jacob Hackworth, and Jet Harvey, this song lets you know you aren’t alone. While it seems hard now, you’ll be better off in the future.

“Between a rock and a hard place // Red wine and mistakes // Tears rollin’ down your face // When I walked out that door // And that’s when I lost it”

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Best Country Music Songs of June 2021: “What We’re Listening To” Picks

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Country Swag’s “What We’re Listening To” playlist highlights the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre.  At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our June 2021 picks of the current best country music songs. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

JUNE PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “I Quit Drinking” – Kelsea Ballerini & LANY
Songwriters: Nicolle Galyon, Kelsea Ballerini, Paul Jason Klein

When I first saw Kelsea Ballerini and LANY perform this song together during the CMT Awards, I was immediately hooked. I love a good collab, especially cross-genre, that brings unique voices and flairs together and this one knocked it out of the park. I love the concept of this song where most break-up songs sing about needing that drink to move on and this one is quite literally the opposite. Not being together is the reason the main character can’t enjoy those drinks now. It’s such a simple concept that makes so much sense and on top of that it’s extremely catchy and the kind of song that makes you want to blast and sing along to.

“Waking up sober, it feels kinda nice // Except that I can’t sleep at night // You’re the reason there’s no whiskey, anywhere inside this house // You’re the reason all my friends know I don’t go downtown // You’re the reason I hate champagne // Never used to turn it down // You’re the only thing I want when one drop hits my mouth // Baby, you’re the reason // I quit drinking”

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Better Man” – Little Big Town
Songwriters: Taylor Swift

Little Big Town’s The Breaker album is one of my favorites to go back to, and I never get tired of listening to “Better Man”. Karen Fairchild’s vocals sound like a diary entry, and the rich harmonies that fill the space add so much depth to the already powerful lyrics. Taylor Swift’s lyricism is always brilliant, and on this track, it’s no exception. It’s heartbreaking yet empowering, “the bravest thing I ever did was run” – and I think that the overall strength of the song is what always brings me back to it. “Better Man”, in my mind, will go on to be one of the classics of this era of country music.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Summer Job Money” – Chris Lane
Songwriters: Blake Pendergrass, John Byron

Chris Lane released a lot of new music lately, but “Summer Job Money” is, in my opinion, the stand-out of the bunch. Its comical and catchy lyrics backed by its mix of modern and traditional country sound make it a great summer-love tune. I constantly find myself singing the chorus over-and-over in my head.

In his earlier stuff, I feel he was leaning heavily on the big pop-productions, like on “Fix,” “Let Me Love You,” and “Take Back Home Girl.” It is apparent that Lane is returning to his roots with these new songs. As someone who generally appreciates lyrics over background music, I think a simpler sound works better with Lane’s style and persona. I’m looking forward to more from him this summer!

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Famous Friends” – Chris Young & Kane Brown
Songwriters: Cary Barlowe, Chris Young, Corey Crowder

One of the reasons I love Chris Young is the energy he brings to his songs whether it be a ballad or an upbeat drinking song. “Famous Friends” fits in the latter category but it’s about a group of friends that might not be famous by Hollywood standards but they’re local celebrities in their hometown. The song namedrops counties throughout Tennessee in the chorus, a shout out to the Volunteer State.

“I’ve got some famous friends you’ve probably never heard of // But back in Hamilton County our crowd is second to none // You might not know ’em here in this big city we’re in // But when I go back home I’ve got some famous friends”

Young brought his real-life friend Kane Brown onto the song and he’s the perfect addition. They both closed out the CMT Music Awards earlier this month with “Famous Friends” and you can tell their friendship runs deep.

 

Pick: “Buy Dirt” – Jordan Davis & Luke Bryan
Songwriters: Jacob Davis, Jordan Davis, Josh Jenkins, Matt Jenkins

Every so often a song comes along that gives me chills not just the first time I hear it, but every time after that. Maybe I’m sentimental after the year we’ve all had, or maybe I’m extra emotional because I recently got married, but this track about what really matters has been giving me all the feels this month. The song is catchy, heartfelt, simple, and so very country. And the collaboration between a rising talent and an established superstar is just the icing on top.

“Buy dirt // Find the one you can’t live without // Get a ring, let your knee hit the ground // Do what you love but call it work // And throw a little money in the plate at church // Send your prayers up and your roots down deep // Add a few limbs to your family tree // And watch their pencil marks // And the grass in the yard all grow up // ‘Cause the truth about it is // It all goes by real quick // You can’t buy happiness // But you can buy dirt”

 

Pick: “Woman You Got” – Maddie & Tae
Songwriters: Laura Veltz, Maddie Font, Mark Holman, Taylor Kerr

This month, I chose “Woman You Got” by Maddie and Tae as a song I have had on repeat. The track is fun and catchy yet gets it right about growing in a relationship whether that be dating or marriage.

“You say you love me, I know you love me // Love that you love me, baby // I know you know me, but if I know me // I’m gonna drive you crazy // The thing about me is I’m always getting better // The truth is, boy, it might take forever but // When it comes to loving you I’m never gonna stop // And that’s the kind of woman you got”

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Middle Man” – Kasey Tyndall
Songwriters: Kasey Tyndall, Lainey Wilson

After getting to interview Kasey Tyndall for our Swag Spotlight series, I knew I had to choose her song “Middle Man” as my pick of the month. I already loved the song, but hearing how effortlessly the track came together really spoke to me. I love songs that can make me feel something. “Middle Man” fits the bill. Although I do not have divorced parents, I can literally feel the emotion that Tyndall conveys in the poignant new single.

“I was too young to understand // I was a little girl // And the middle man // I got a taste of rock n roll // Swear I learned to talk to Jesus // And I made best friends with the road // I got real good // I got real good at leaving”

The songstress finds a way to matter-of-factly speak her truth, while speaking for a larger landscape of people. She does not cast blame on anyone, which makes the song even more special. We are all just people after all. “Middle Man” reminds listeners that we are always influenced by where we come, regardless of our circumstances. That is a beautiful message to come out of a tender, yet gritty single!

 

Listen to our picks on our “What We’re Listening To” playlist on Spotify and be sure to give it a follow, so you can catch our monthly updates.

Best Country Music Songs of May 2021: “What We’re Listening To” Picks

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Country Swag’s “What We’re Listening To” playlist highlights the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre.  At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our May 2021 picks of the current best country music songs. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

MAY PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “When the Party’s Over” – Donovan Woods
Songwriters: Donovan Woods, Tom Douglas, Travis Wood

This month I have been hooked on Donovan Woods’ “When the Party’s Over”. This song randomly came on one day and immediately caught my attention. I love the picture it paints of the best part of the night not being the actual party, but when the party is over and you just have that alone time with that special someone. You can almost feel the magic described in the lyrics and I think it’s a moment of the night that everyone can relate to.

“‘Cause when the party’s over // I get to pull you in closer // We dance a little bit slower // Vinyl still spinning // Night’s just beginning // Girl, were gonna keep on rocking // Come on kiss me like no one’s watching // Your black dress gets to dropping // And the fireworks start // Yeah the night’s been so good, so far // But the best part, is when thе party’s over”

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Momma Didn’t Raise No” – Garrett Biggs
Songwriters: Ethan Willis, Garrett Biggs, Joseph Maliszewski, Matthew McSwain

I found this song by accident after the playlist I made on YouTube ended. I left it on, because the title intrigued me, and it’s a good thing that I did. Not only is it very catchy, but the story is also inspiring. Biggs praises the way his mother raised him and credits her for shaping him into the strong man he is today, even though he wasn’t the most well-behaved child.

“Oh I might be a little rough around the edges // And from the outside looking in I might seem helpless // But I’ve been blessed with a strong backbone // I never could’ve made it on my own // And it’ll be written on my headstone // ‘Cause momma didn’t raise no”

I’ve written this before; my favorite songs are ones that are personal to the artist yet can relate to others as well. I feel most people don’t appreciate just how much their parents do for them until they move out or go away to college—at least that’s when I realized. Biggs captures that feeling well in this song and it hit me hard, especially right after Mother’s Day. I suggest checking out some other songs from Biggs’ catalog too!

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “More Time Fishin'” – Thomas Rhett
Songwriters: Josh Thompson, Rhett Akins, Thomas Rhett, Will Bundy

I love just about every song Thomas Rhett puts out, but this song really hits home for me. After a crazy and difficult year and a half, Rhett gives us some sound advice everyone should take to heart in his new song “More Time Fishin’.”

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

The song is about not wasting time and doing things you love now because you never know when it’ll be too late. It’s so easy to get caught up with work, errands, house chores and forget about the important things in life. Whenever I need a reminder of that, this is my go-to song.

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Figured Out” – Lacy Cavalier
Songwriters: Brian Phillips, Kyle Schlienger, Lacy Cavalier, Nick Luebke

This month, I’ve been listening to Lacy Cavalier’s vibey new song, “Figured Out”. If you’re looking for a new song that’s fun to sing along to and just chill out, this is it.

“You got it figured out // Imma sit back and watch cuz // You know your way around // Like I swear nobody else does // Using fingertips like a paintbrush // I’m your work of art that’ll never be done // You got it figured out”

 

Caleigh DeCaprio, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Days Go By” – Keith Urban
Songwriters: Andrew Powell, Keith Urban

I had an early morning road trip earlier this morning and needed to switch up what I’ve been listening to so I scrolled through my old playlists and played my summer playlist from 2016 (I had just gotten my truck and graduated from high school). The first song to play was “Days Go By” by Keith Urban (much older than 2016 I know) but it put me in such a good mood as I watched the sunrise in the rearview mirror. It was such a vibe and put me in the perfect ‘summer’s coming’ mood for the rest of my drive of singing and dancing ahead. I highly recommend diving into your old playlists if you need to switch things up, if you want to bring back memories, or if you’re getting super antsy about summer.

“Days go by / I can feel them flyin’ / Like a hand out the window in the wind / Cars go by / Yeah, it’s all we’ve been given / So you better start livin’ right now / ‘Cause days go by”

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “when was it over?” – Sasha Sloan ft. Sam Hunt
Songwriters: Henry Agincourt Allen, Emi Dragoi, Sam Hunt, Sasha Sloan, Shane McAnally

My song pick for May is actually a collaboration. When I heard that Sasha Sloan was going to join forces with Sam Hunt, I was immediately intrigued. I have been loving cross-genre collaborations and I especially love the whole genre-bending trend. Their song “when was it over?” is an instant bop.

“I didn’t ask if you were okay // After a fight with your mom // The last time I stayed over at your place // And you woke up alone // Was it the first time you pulled away // Second time that we drove to Texas // Third time we ran into one of my random exes // So was it ever real? // Or was it all pretend // The way you act has good me wonderin’ // When was it over for you?”

The push-pull nature of the song feels effortless, but it’s the lyrics and the simple production that gets me every time. This song could easily fit in with any genre because of how simply gorgeous it is. When I heard that Shane McAnally had a hand in writing it with Hunt and Sloan, I knew exactly why I had fallen in love with it so easily. I encourage everyone to give it a listen!

 

Listen to our picks on our “What We’re Listening To” playlist on Spotify and be sure to give it a follow, so you can catch our monthly updates.

Best Country Music Songs of April 2021: “What We’re Listening To” Picks

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NYCountry Swag’s “What We’re Listening To” playlist highlights the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre.  At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our April 2021 picks of the current best country music songs. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

APRIL PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Country Again” – Thomas Rhett
Songwriters: Ashley Gorley, Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell

I know this song has only been out for a little over a week, but the second I heard it, it instantly moved me and I’ve had it on repeat since. Although the lyrics speak personally to Rhett, I think it acts in a relatable way to anyone who has had the opportunity to slow down over the past year and enjoy the things they once took for granted. Time with friends and loved ones, being home, and enjoying the simple things in life.

To me, I think of the word ‘wholesome’ when I think of this song, it’s so nice to see Rhett enjoying the little things and getting back to his roots. I love the idea that although 2020 wasn’t the best year, we can look back and think that there were some good things to come from it.

“I traded sunsets with my wife // For hours on my phone // And even when I was right beside her // I still wasn’t really home // But last night we built a fire // Watched the moonlight kiss her skin // I thought, “Man, it feels good to be country again”

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Do You Think About Me” – Caitlyn Smith
Songwriters: Rollie Gaalswyk, Jeremy Lardani, Caitlyn Smith

Caitlyn Smith’s “Do You Think About Me” has been on rotation for at least 4 years, and lately, I’ve been listening to it more than ever. The Starfire EP in general got me through my freshman year of high school! As it has started getting really nice out, I’ve been taking more walks and drinking my coffee outside – and to me, that’s what this song sounds like. It has this calming presence over me, and it’s rootsy alternative country perfection. The combination of the rolling drums and gorgeous electric guitar over Smith’s silky vocals make for a song you simply can’t get sick of.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Famous Friends” – Chris Young & Kane Brown
Songwriters: Cary Barlowe, Chris Young, Corey Crowder

This song came out a few months ago, and I was hoping it would start gaining some traction because I think it’s a perfect representation of country music and small-town life. Everyone looks up to politicians, athletes, celebrities, and other individuals whose names carry weight but as the pandemic has exaggerated, the real heroes are the doctors, teachers, shop owners, and friends that helped us through tough times. The two emphasize the importance these people have in our community.

I love when Chris Young and Kane Brown collab because Brown often credits Young for being an idol to him when he was growing up and pursuing music as a career. Knowing Brown’s backstory and being a huge fan, it’s nice to see it become full circle.

 

Pick: “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” – Chase Rice ft. Florida Georgia Line
Songwriters: Chase Rice, Hunter Phelps, Cale Dodds & Corey Crowder

I’ve always been a huge fan of both Chase Rice and Florida Georgia Line, so I couldn’t wait to hear them collaborate on a song together. “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” is exactly what it sounds like, a country song featuring the essentials: beer, God, and great friends.
“Sittin’ here, drinkin’ beer, talkin’ God, Amen // Killing time, living life with some down-home friends // When the world’s gone crazy man it all makes sense // Sittin’ here, drinkin’ beer, talkin’ God, Amen // Amen”
I can’t wait to blast this song with the windows down this summer and *hopefully* hear it live sometime very soon.

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Wings” – Jackson Dean
Songwriters: Jackson Dean, Park Chisolm

“Wings” from newly signed recording artist Jackson Dean is a paralyzing production of a deep-rooted sentiment through heavy vocals of attractive rasp and intriguing range. From the finger-picking that opens the song and leads up to the words sprung out from this Maryland native who teeters on the same stylistic approaches as Chris Stapleton in this debut song, Dean Jackson is one to look out for. “Wings” is an incredible start to his journey with Big Machine Records.

 

Caleigh DeCaprio, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Hard to Stay Mad At” – Tim McGraw
Songwriters: Lori McKenna, Luke Laird, Shane McAnally

In honor of Tim McGraw releasing the Ultimate Edition and the Ultimate Video Edition of Here on Earth, I’ve been re-listening to the album, and “Hard to Stay Mad” is one of my favorite songs off of it. I love any song that finds a way to reference other songs in it, but I especially love that McGraw has reached a point where he is referencing his own songs within his new tunes, which he does multiple times on this album alone.

In “7500 OBO”, McGraw name drops “Where the Green Grass Grows” and “Southern Girl” and he does it again in “Hard to Stay Mad At”. You can hear musical undertones that sound similar to “I Need You” throughout the song, that eventually form to “I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you”  that follows the same pattern, until adding in the infamous “I need you, I need you, I need you, I need you” and ending the song with “I want you” in the same beat. Not only is “I Need You” an iconic song and a staple when it comes to the careers of both Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, but McGraw’s inclusion of it on his songs and albums now speaks volumes to the success of his career. He even threw in an anecdote about him and Hill in his latest release off the upcoming album in “God Moves the Pen”. Can’t wait to see what other surprises he has for the rest of the album!

“If you weren’t so damn stubborn, we would’ve never got this far // Be just another casualty, two people in a bar // Here we are, another day // Everytime I walk away, I walk right back // ‘Cause you’re hard to stay mad at”

 

Julia Grubbs, Contributing Writer

Pick: “No Sad Songs” – Niko Moon
Songwriters: Alysa Vanderheym, Anna Moon, Joshua Murty, Niko Moon, Steven Lee Olsen

As we crawl our way out of winter in the Northeast, I needed something truly uplifting to pick up my mood. I came across Niko Moon’s “No Sad Songs”, and the title itself told me everything I needed to hear. It instantly lifted my spirits and gave me the fun summer vibes I’m so longing for. No more desperate winter heartbreak songs; I’m done with it all and looking forward. This song has the pop-country vibe that is so popular and appealing to all listeners, even those who claim to not like country music. The electric guitar and rapped verses give it the groove to keep you moving.
‘Dancing all the way ’til last call // drink in my hand got me feelin’ right”

 

Pick: “Chasing After You” – Ryan Hurd & Maren Morris
Songwriters: Brinley Addington & Jerry Flowers

I’m a sucker for country couples (Kelsea Ballerini and Morgan Evans, anyone??) and I can’t stop listening to Ryan Hurd’s track with wife and mega-star Maren Morris, “Chasing After You”. The song is simple, catchy, and relatable and the fact that the two are in love in real life is the icing on the cake.

“But I know, yeah I know it’s a matter of time // ‘Till you walk, ’till you walk back out of my life // Leave me standing here lonely feeling like a fool // Every time, every time you say we’re done // You come back to the love you werе running from // Don’t know why, don’t know why I let you but I do // Guess I love chasing aftеr you”

 

Pick: “That’s When” – Taylor Swift & Keith Urban
Songwriters: Brad Warren, Brett Warren, Taylor Swift

My pick for this month is “That’s When” by Taylor Swift featuring Keith Urban. It’s no secret that “country Taylor” is my favorite era, so when she announced new songs from the vault coming I was so excited. “That’s When” is the perfect breakup track whether it was when you are 17 (like I was when Fearless came out) or now as an adult. Having Keith Urban on the track also makes it super special as they were former tourmates. Their voices fit so well together.

 

Nicole Piering, Contributing Writer

Pick: “I Would’ve Loved You” – Jake Hoot & Kelly Clarkson
Songwriters: Dean Sams, Jake Hoot, Jamie Floyd

My pick this month is “I Would’ve Loved You,” by The Voice winner Jake Hoot and his coach, Kelly Clarkson. There’s just something to love about a country power ballad, and this one is as good as they get. Written by Hoot, Jamie Floyd, and Dean Sams of Lonestar, the song is an interesting take on a breakup song, the pair belting, “I’m gonna hate you as long and as much as I would’ve loved you.” Both Hoot and Clarkson shine vocally on this song, singing their hearts out, and sounding absolutely beautiful together while doing so.

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Ran into You” – Mitch Rossell & Trisha Yearwood
Songwriters: Dave Turnbull, Mitch Rossell, Tommy Karlas

This month my pick came easy. As soon as I heard our recent Swag Spotlight artist Mitch Rossell’s song with Trisha Yearwood “Ran into You,” I knew that would be my pick.

The song is everything I love about country music. It tells a story. It has impeccable lyrics and the vocals are just out of this world. The added collaboration with Trisha Yearwood and the harmonies are just a bonus! The song feels honest and authentic, making me feel for the protagonist despite not experiencing this particular story myself.

“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”

Mitch Rossell is also an artist that I really believe in him, so I was honored to get to pick his song as my favorite of the month! Now, go listen to it!

 

Listen to our picks on our “What We’re Listening To” playlist on Spotify and be sure to give it a follow, so you can catch our monthly updates.

Best Country Music Songs of March 2021: “What We’re Listening To” Picks

/in , , /by

NYCountry Swag’s “What We’re Listening To” playlist highlights the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre.  At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our March 2021 picks of the current best country music songs. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

MARCH 2021 PICKS:

 

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Shoulda” – Kylie Morgan
Songwriters: Shane McAnally, Ben Johnson, Kylie Morgan

Kylie Morgan’s “Shoulda” is a song that I have had on repeat since its release a few weeks ago. The catchy, upbeat, and edgy track is nearly impossible to listen to without wanting to jump up, dance around, and scream sing along to every word.

Morgan creatively turns a break-up into a power anthem, looking back on all of the things you should’ve, could’ve, would’ve done differently, but doing exactly what you wanted anyway.

“Shoulda locked down, shoulda laid low // Shoulda poured two for one alone // I know it now but it’s too late // Shoulda hung up when I saw your name // Oh, I knew better than to ever think that you could change // Should, woulda, coulda // I ain’t never been no good at staying home when I know that I // Shoulda // Shoulda, woulda, coulda // I ain’t never been no good at staying home when I know that I // Shoulda, shoulda // Shoulda, shoulda”

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Knowing You” – Kenny Chesney
Songwriters: Adam James, Brett James, Kat Higgins

Admittedly, I never got Kenny Chesney. Maybe it’s because I’m from the city or because of my age, but I never really seemed to get the hype. I heard Luke Laird sing one of his Kenny cuts “American Kids” days before lockdown, and suddenly, I felt my perspective change. About a month later, I read an article about “Knowing You”, and it moved me enough that I felt compelled to listen. Upon first listen, I was crushed in the best way. It wasn’t overly specific. It’s not earth-shattering – if anything, it was how simple and frank it was that made me love it. Something about the melody and the phrasing of the chorus drew me in.

“But God, we were so alive // I was a kid on a carnival ride”

Spring usually makes me reflect, but this last year of immense loss and change keeps me coming back to this song. I think about what it means for me, and also how everyone in the world can relate to its sentiment. I can’t remember a time I was this excited about a mainstream radio single. Safe to say I get Kenny now.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Want It Again” – Thomas Rhett
Songwriters: Jon Henderson, Josh Miller, Josh Thompson, Lynn Hutton, Matt Dragstrem, Thomas Rhett

I’ve been listening to this song non-stop since it came out! I love anything Thomas Rhett drops, but it was nice to hear a vulnerable, stripped-down song from him. Sometimes I feel like these poppy-productions take away from the lyrics of his songs, but with “Want It Again,” you can feel the raw emotion in his voice.

I also like how this sad song has a happy ending to it – you can put it on if you want to cry, or you can put it on if you are feeling extra grateful for the person you love. I’m very excited for part one of his album and I hope to hear a lot more songs like this one!

“And oh, I hope one day you’ll find // Your way back into my arms // So girl, I’ll put this heart of mine // Somewhere good and safe, in case you want it again someday”

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: “How Far Can It Go?” – Hailey Whitters ft. Trisha Yearwood
Songwriters: Hailey Whitters, Hillary Lindsey, Nicolle Galyon

When I first heard this song and even knew Trisha Yearwood was featured on it,  it immediately reminded me of the song “She’s In Love With The Boy.” The upbeat tune is about young love and as the song title says, seeing how far it’ll go.

“How far can it go? // How long will it last? // She’s got her eyes on forever, he’s got his foot on the gas // Can’t stop two hearts from fallin’ down like dominoes // Heads are shakin’, preacher prayin’, mama sayin’ // Hеy, how far can it go?”

Whitters has such a unique voice so pairing that with a traditional, timeless voice like Yearwood’s makes this catchy tune a hit in my book. This is the second song Whitters has out with some big names attached. She also has a song “Fillin’ My Cup” with Little Big Town out now. I love listening to new talent in the country music world and can’t wait to see what’s next for this up-and-coming star.

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: “I Remember Everything” – Brandi Carlile
Songwriters: John Prine, Pat McLaughin

I first heard Brandi Carlile on the soundtrack of the Nicholas Sparks film Safe Haven and was immediately transfixed. Vocally, she is timeless yet vintage; one of those artists that creates an intricate atmosphere of cigars, whiskey, and sadness, while, at the same time, incorporating a real sense of universality and togetherness. An incredibly strong gift.

John Prine’s “I Remember Everything” through Carlile’s voice brings a new life to the words of the late country legend. Presented on the Grammy stage, the song connects the past to the present; inner turmoil to complete devotion.

The weight of this tribute song, with more to come through an album of the best from Prine, has not withered with time. And, with Carlile’s lasting effect as if hearing her for the first time over classic country-folk productions, this upcoming project is on the top of the anticipation list.

 

Caleigh DeCaprio, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Cross Country” – Breland ft. Mickey Guyton
Songwriters: Daniel Breland, Mickey Guyton, Sam Sumser, Sean Small, Will Gittens

I was an immediate fan of BRELAND’s original version of this song. While autobiographical of his own journey through the music industry, it is also a very relatable story of struggling to find your own purpose and place in this world. I think songs can have different meanings to different people, dependent on the different stages of life that they are going through. I related to this song strongly in the sense that he was searching his whole life to make it possible for him to do what he wanted to do.

In the remix, Guyton is able to add her own story into the song, showing that this personal struggle to get to where they are now, was something they had in common, and something that many others can relate to as well.

Both BRELAND and Guyton have been inspirational and boundary-breaking throughout their entire careers and especially in the last year. This song perfectly expresses the powerful impact they each have on the music industry and specifically on Nashville. It is an incredible blend of two stories, of two artists, who are breaking boundaries for people of color in country music.

“Took a couple of years and a lot of tears ‘til I made my mark // And I started to see who I wanted to be in this world of ours // Gotta play your part”

 

Julia Grubbs, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)” – Miranda Lambert & Elle King
Songwriters: Elle King & Martin Johnson

With March holding the major icon of International Women’s Day in a year that’s proven to have set so many women back in terms of work and play, I chose “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)” to highlight the power of two glass-breakers in the country music scene.
This song is an anthem for every woman who has been told too many times, explicit or not, to play a certain role. The drive of the beat fills me with anticipation of all that I can do. These are the lyrics I want to hear every time I need a reminder that I can take any risk I want, and my strength and will are there to keep me afloat; and not just afloat, but soaring. Keep it up, gals.
“We don’t gotta wait until the weekend // There’s always time for jumping off the deep end // So don’t you wait up tonight // Don’t worry, I’ll be fine”

 

Pick: “Another” – Adam Doleac
Songwriters: Adam Doleac, Kyle Jacobs, Trannie Anderson

This song might be six months old, but it has personally been on repeat the past few weeks. Adam Doleac’s voice and his laid-back production style make all his songs some of my favorites, and this track is no exception. With simple but poignant imagery, and a chorus just as catchy as it is sweet, ‘Another’ is bound to resonate with any hopeless-romantic-country-music-lover.
“Every smile, every kiss, every second that I get // Every little look you give me like that // Every night, every day, every memory that we make // Baby, you ain’t even gotta ask // I’ll always want another dance // Another chance to hold your hand // Yeah, from the second that we fеll into each other // Knew I was nеver gonna ever wanna // Never ever gonna want another”

 

Pick: “Hey Y’all” – Cole Swindell
Songwriters: Brandon Kinney, Cole Swindell, Michael Carter

This month, I chose Cole Swindell’s “Hey Y’all” from his debut album. Released over seven years ago, the song remains one of my favorites to this day. “Hey Y’all” has also been on repeat for me even more so because I’m really missing Swindell’s concerts and this song puts me right back there. I can picture everyone waving their hands from side to side and singing the chorus back to the talented entertainer. Hopefully, we will all be enjoying a show soon!

 

Nicole Piering, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Please Come to Boston” – William Michael Morgan
Songwriters: Dave Loggins

My pick for March is William Michael Morgan’s cover of the Dave Loggins song, “Please Come to Boston.” The song is such a classic, and Morgan’s rich traditional voice is perfect for it. The song has such a bittersweet feeling, and it’s heartbreaking in all of the best ways. The female background vocals lend so much to the track, and I’ve had it on repeat since its release a few weeks ago.

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “4 Goodyears” – Brett Sheroky
Songwriters: Andrew Peebles, Brett Sheroky, Daniel Wilson

Though a lot of great songs came out this month, it’s Brett Sheroky’s newest release, “4 Goodyears” that I keep coming back to. Sheroky is one of those artists that create a story and put it to song. “4 Goodyears” is another exemplary example of that.

Lyrically, the song is a masterpiece, and the nostalgia that the song embodies is almost palpable. I always respect songwriters for sharing their truth with their fanbase. Vulnerability and story-telling always outweigh radio-friendly and catchy tunes for me. With that being said, this song can appeal to both kinds of country lovers.

Sheroky is a one-of-a-kind talent, and I encourage everyone to go listen to “4 Goodyears” ASAP.

 

Listen to our picks on our “What We’re Listening To” playlist on Spotify and be sure to give it a follow, so you can catch our monthly updates.