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Conner Smith: ‘Didn’t Go Too Far’- EP Review

Conner Smith’s debut EP, Didn’t Go Too Far is officially out now, January 14th, and available on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Conner Smith, one of our favorite rising stars and 2022 Artists to Watch, has officially released his debut EP, Didn’t Go Too Far. Since signing his record deal in 2019, Smith has secured his spot as a country artist headed for stardom. In just six months, since he started releasing music, the singer-songwriter has garnered an incredible fanbase of supporters and cemented his move from songwriter to artist.

The new project features six songs in the collection, made up of three previously released tracks and three brand new songs. The record kicks off with a new song, “College Town.” Written by Smith independently, the song sets the tone for the rest of the project. The song is high-energy, honest, and lyrically focused, the perfect introduction to the EP.

“The next thing I know, a couple of songs I wrote got me a record deal // They put them out and sent me out to see how it made the people feel // Yeah me and my band hopped in a van to go play some college shows // and that’s why we’re here, so let’s drink a beer”

The record continues with Smith’s current radio single, “Learn From It.” Like the previous song, the singer lets fans know more about his story on this track. The song takes us through all of the mistakes and experiences we all go through as we grow up. Ultimately, the singer relies on the adage that we all learn from those things. The song allows us as listeners to learn more about the artist and his story.

Next up is one of our favorite songs off the record, which also happens to be one of Smith’s favorites as well. The title track, “Didn’t Go Too Far” is vulnerable and authentic. The singer laments about how it feels to lose your love, but being stuck in that small-town makes it nearly impossible to move on. The feelings that Smith brings in the listener in this song proves how incredible of a songwriter he is in his young career.

“There’s only one bar // There’s only one church // How do I move on, when I see you everywhere I turn // I can’t go anywhere to get away // and settle the heart // Because the one that got away didn’t go too far”

The record’s journey continues with the previously released “Take It Slow.” Giving off Sam Hunt vibes, the track is the romantic and hopeful song that this EP begged for. The song is smooth, nostalgic, and inviting. It depicts young love in a way that makes us all feel like we are experiencing it again for the first time. Smith first played the track for us during our live acoustic session and interview this fall in New York City. Check it out in the video below.

Of course, Smith could not put out his debut EP without “I Hate Alabama.” The song is the only track that Smith did not write, but the singer really brings life to the incredible tune. The slow-burn begins as the ultimate disdain towards Alabama Crimson Red Football team, but after one listen, fans will know that it is definitely not just that. Smith pours his heart out, sharing that the reason he truly hates Alabama is because he got his heart broken. Even Alabama-natives can understand that!

Finally, the record culminates with “Somewhere In A Small Town,” ironically the song that Smith often kicks off his live shows with. The song is fun, romantic, and enticing, all qualities that Smith also possesses.

Overall, Didn’t Go Too Far is a perfect example of how spectacular a debut EP can be for an artist. Smith is a breath of fresh air in country music. He knows how to craft a lyric like a pro, entice country fans across the spectrum, and create music that makes us all feel all pillars of a star in the making.

Learn more a out the rising star in our spotlight interview here. Want a chance to win a personalized video message from Conner Smith? Enter to win here.

Didn’t Go Too Far EP Tracklist:

  1. College Town” (Conner Smith)
  2. Learn From It” (Conner Smith, Daniel Ross)
  3. Didn’t Go Too Far” (Conner Smith, Matt Dragstrem, Matt Jenkins)
  4. Take It Slow” (Conner Smith, Ryan Hurd, Mark Trussell)
  5. I Hate Alabama” (Nick Columbia, Drew Green, Hunter Phelps, Lee Starr)
  6. Somewhere In A Small Town” (Conner Smith, Zach Crowell, Hunter Phelps)
Conner-smith-new-ep

Conner Smith’s debut EP ‘Didn’t Go Too Far” is out now.

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

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on Instagram, TwitterTikTok, and Facebook.

Didn’t Go Too Far EP is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

Who Is Conner Smith? The Story Behind His Journey to Country Music

Who is Conner Smith? The singer-songwriter joined us to chat about his journey to country music. Get to know the rising star here…

The Beginning:

It is always exciting for us when a brand new artist is a star in the making! Conner Smith, one of our easiest picks for our 2022 Artists to Watch list, fits the bill. A Nashville native, Smith’s story is one that makes it easy to root for him.

“Growing up in Nashville is such a big part of my story,” begins Smith, during our interview. “I look at my story as this amazing combination of having a desire and a drive to do something and a gift and being in the perfect environment to sculpt that. Being in Nashville gave me an advantage on every front.”

As a child, Smith was all about music and baseball. At as young as six years old, he was writing music in music city, whenever he was not playing baseball with his team. “People say Nashville is a ten year town. I started writing songs in Nashville, when I was six, and I signed my first publishing deal when I was a sixteen,” shared the singer-songwriter.

For Smith, country music was his first love. “I’ve always gravitated towards the lyric of song, so for me that was always country music,” shared Smith, adding, “My mom is a big country music fan, so we grew up with George Strait and the Judds, Montgomery Gentry, and then my big guy growing up was Kenny Chesney.” Interestingly enough, the first song Smith ever learned was “Big Star” by Chesney. Smith’s mom even surprised him with his first concert at seven years old, which was also Chesney.

The Turning Point:

Clearly, the trajectory of Smith’s life moved fast, as it was evident from a young age, that the singer was made for stardom. Despite that, it was important for Smith to graduate high school before he firmly planted his feet in country music.

Smith honed his craft as a songwriter first. “I gained respect in writing rooms and proved myself going to these writes, and in the writing community.  I was more than this young kid, who could sing,” shared the artist. “I’ve always been a lyric guy and telling stories, so it’s always been country.”

Upon graduating high school, Smith began taking meetings to secure a record deal. Ultimately signing with Big Machine Label Group in the summer of 2019, Smith’s career has catapulted since. He put out his first two songs, “Learned From It,” and “Tennessee” in July 2021, and fans have flocked to the budding star by the thousands.

A huge turning point in Smith’s blossoming career was when he put out the viral hit, “I Hate Alabama.” “We didn’t have a plan for that song to come out,” he began. “It was sent to me by my buddy who wrote it, Hunter Phelps, knowing I’m a Tennessee fan and me and my producer fell in love with it. […] We were just like we have to do something with it.” This led Smith to create a music video for it and put it out on Instagram. Moments later, the CEO of his label, Scott Borchetta, called Smith to let him know that the song would be released in eight days.

Today:

Flash forward to today, Smith’s debut EP Didn’t Go Too Far is due out this Friday, January 14th. The six-song project will feature the aforementioned songs, “I Hate Alabama” and “Learned From It,” as well as, “Take It Slow.” The EP also boasts three brand new songs.

The first song is a solo write called “College Towns,” which Smith wrote on a plane. The project also includes one of our personal favorites, the title track, “Didn’t Go Too Far.” “”Didn’t Go Too Far” is one of my favorite songs that I have written, so I just needed to get that one out, and definitely a real personal song to me,” shared Smith.

Finally, Conner Smith also included the song he often opens his shows with called “Somewhere In A Small Town.” Although it was difficult to choose the songs that would finish out this collection, Smith really tried to give fans a balanced taste of his artistry. He shared that he asked himself, “What three songs in this collection of six to build the best foundation of ‘who is Conner Smith’ and what am I going to do in the future.”

After the EP comes out, the sky is truly the limit for Smith. Fans can expect more new music throughout the year and more tour dates on the horizon!

Check back this Friday, for our full review of the upcoming EP.

Conner Smith music

Conner Smith’s debut EP “Gone Too Far” is due out Friday, January 14th

Connect:

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

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on Instagram, TwitterTikTok, and Facebook.

Conner Smith’s music 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.

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

Country Swag Reveals 2022 Artists to Watch

Introducing our 2022 Country Artists to Watch!

Over the past 6+ 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, Walker Hayes, HARDY, Gabby Barrett, 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 20172018, 2019, 2o2o and 2021, before checking out the 10 artists we picked to have a huge 2022 below.

CONNER SMITH 

Listen: “I Hate Alabama”
Stay Connected: @ConnerSmithMusic

When we think 2022, we think CONNER SMITH. We were first introduced to this talented singer-songwriter in early 2021 when he joined us in New York City to film an acoustic session and interview. As Smith performed for our crew, it was obvious that everyone in the room could feel the magic from this talented artist. Just a few weeks later, after an overwhelming fan response to an unreleased song “I Hate Alabama” prompted Smith to officially release the track, the artist found himself in headlines everywhere. Barely 24 hours after it’s official drop, the Alabama Crimson Tide football team notoriously lost their game after a 19-week winning streak. Coincidence?

Conner Smith is destined to be a name stay in country music. His debut EP Didn’t Go Too Far is due out January 14th and fans can catch him on the road in early 2022 with Ryan Hurd.

 

ALANA SPRINGSTEEN 

Alana-springsteen-ep

Listen: “Zero Trucks”
Stay Connected: @AlanaSpringsteen

We first became familiar with Alana Springsteen with the release of “Think About You”, a relatable and catchy song put out to country radio with Curb Records’ artist, Filmore back in 2020. Continuing to impress with each new release, the 21-year-old officially dropped her studio debut EP, History of Breaking Up (Part 1) in September 2021. The project truly showcases her beautiful vocals and honest and raw songwriting. Paired with an infectious stage presence, Springsteen was an easy contender for our 2022 watch list.

 

DREW GREEN 

Listen: “She Got That”
Stay Connected: @DrewGreen

Drew Green is a standout artist as the Tennessee native continues to blend genre lines making a one-of-a-kind sound uniquely his own. With hints of country, trap, and rap in his music, paired with his honest approach to songwriting and compelling storytelling, there is a song for everyone in this newcomer’s catalog. Check out his latest project, Dirt Boy Vol. 2 here.

 

BRELAND 

Listen: “Cross Country”
Stay Connected: @Breland

Breland is indisputably an artist to pay attention to and the Jersey native has quite the collection of collaborations that serve as a testament to the music community’s appreciation for his undeniable talent. Songs like “My Truck” ft. Sam Hunt, “Throw It Back” ft. Keith Urban, Nelly’s “High Horse” ft. Breland + Blanco Brown, are just a few standout tracks with Breland’s name attached. However, his highly personal, yet relatable single, “Cross Country” is what helps us get to know the rising star. Cultivating a sound of his own matched with his infectious personality and energetic stage presence makes Breland a must-see act. Catch him on the road in 2022 with Russell Dickerson on the All Yours, All Night Tour.

 

ASHLEY COOKE 

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Listen: “Never Til Now”
Stay Connected: @TheAshleyCooke

After having viral success on TikTok, Ashley Cooke has racked up millions of fans over the last nearly two years. The talented singer-songwriter was not only able to land the attention of new fans on the popular social app, but she was able to keep them. With each new music release she continues to impress with her heartfelt vulnerability in her lyrics and captivating vocals. Get to know Ashley Cooke with her debut EP, Already Drank That Beer – Side A here.

 

WARREN ZEIDERS 

Listen: “Ride The Lightning”
Stay Connected: @WarrenZeiders

Warren Zeiders’ gritty vocals meshed with his own unique blend of country music and southern rock influences sets him apart from the pool of rising acts in the country music world. His lead single, “Ride the Lightning”, penned by himself along with Eric Paslay and Rob Crosby, will stop you in your tracks and have any listener captivated beginning to end. A Warren Zeiders x Morgan Wallen collab is a thought we’d like to put into the universe.

 

MORGAN WADE 

Morgan-wade-run-new-song

Listen: “Wilder Days”
Stay Connected: @MorganWadeMusic

Perhaps the most buzzed about artist of 2021, Morgan Wade is a name that will be around for years to come. Breaking out onto the scene with her debut project, Reckless, Wade delivers real, raw, and authentic lyrics in her music. The rising star can be found on the road with Luke Combs in 2022, a coveted spot that is sure to help even further boost her fanbase. Wade continues to stun on her latest release, “Run”, listen here.

 

CHAYCE BECKHAM 

Listen: “23 – Steel Mix”
Stay Connected: @ChayceBeckhamMusic

Chayce Beckham won the hearts of fans everywhere during his run on Season 21 of American Idol. The singer stunned throughout the series, ultimately claiming the winning title. The popular singing competition helped introduce fans to Beckham’s incredible tone and talent. After performing his own deeply personal song “23”, which he independently wrote, Beckham released the track and instantly saw it hit #1 on iTunes charts. Recently, the singer-songwriter teamed up with label-mate, Lindsay Ell for a brand new high-energy song, “Can’t Do Without Me” Listen here.

 

ERIN KINSEY 

who-is-erin-kinsey

Listen: “Just Drive”
Stay Connected: @ErinKinseyTX

We first met Erin Kinsey this past fall when she joined us in New York City for an acoustic session and interview. Her positive and contagious energy is what got our attention, but her incredible vocal skills matched with her catchy and relatable lyrics are what kept us wanting more. The Texas native certainly has a bright future. Get to know the singer-songwriter in our spotlight interview here.

 

LARRY FLEET 

larry-fleet-new-album

Listen: “Different Shade of Red”
Stay Connected: @LarryFleet

Larry Fleet’s debut single “Where I Find God” left us awestruck upon first listen and in high anticipation for a full-length project. Delivering 14 tracks, all in-which he had a hand in writing, on his debut album Stack of Records, Larry Fleet lived up to the hype. A combination of honest lyrics, staggering vocals, and country grit make Larry Fleet an artist to watch. Catch him on the road in 2022 with Morgan Wallen on The Dangerous Tour.

Like what you hear? Give a follow to our 2022 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.

 

Conner Smith Releases Fan-Favorite New Track “I Hate Alabama”

Conner Smith’s new song “I Hate Alabama” is out today, October 8th, on all streaming platforms. Learn more about the brand new track below.

We do not say this lightly, but Conner Smith is one of the artists we are most excited about lately. In just a few months, he has made us a true believer in his artistry. He has blown us away with each of his previous releases, including his debut singles and most recently, “Take It Slow.” Today, the singer-songwriter released his viral, fan-favorite song “I Hate Alabama.”

The slow-burn begins as the ultimate disdain towards Alabama Crimson Red Football team, but after one listen, fans will know that it is definitely not just that. Smith pours his heart out, sharing that the reason he truly hates Alabama is because he got his heart broken. Even Alabama-natives can understand that!

“They get us every season // I wish I could say that’s the only reason // that I hate Alabama // I hate Crimson Red // And I hate how they yell ‘roll tide’ when I got a Braves hat on my head // and I love Lynyrd Skynyrd, but lord I hate sweet home // ‘Cause when I hear it all I see // is a girl with houndstooth on // in the stands of Tuscaloosa”

The song conveys true-artistry in every way. Smith proves with each and every release that he is the real deal. Fans of both traditional and modern-day country music are sure to flock to the singer-songwriter in droves! For more from Smith, check our exclusive interview and performance with the singer-songwriter live from New York City in the video below.

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

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on InstagramTikTok, and Facebook.

“I Hate Alabama” 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.

who-is-conner-smith

Conner Smith Follows Up Debut with New Song “Take It Slow”

Conner Smith’s new song “Take It Slow” is out now, September 10th, on all streaming platforms.  Take a look below as we dig into the track.

Back in June, newcomer, Conner Smith made his artist debut. The singer-songwriter shared two brand new songs with fans. Both “Learned From It” and “Tennessee” showcased captivating sides of his artistry. Today, the singer is back with another new release, a song called “Take It Slow.”

The new track is smooth, nostalgic, and inviting. It depicts young love in a way that makes us all feel like we are experiencing it again for the first time. Smith is a breath of fresh air in country music. He does not try to be anything, but himself, and delivers music that is both believable and relatable. The song is romantic, yet innocent, a hard quality to have.

“You came down your stairs with that sundress and your Chuck Taylors on // Your pops said don’t keep me up all night long // We pulled out your drive about the time the sky went pink // I said baby what you think // You said take it slow // I know a backroad we can find a spot we can be alone // We can sway back and forth to what’s on the radio”

 The song comes on the heels of Smith’s 21st birthday. A true entertainer, the singer is giving fans the song as a gift to celebrate. “Take It Slow” is sure to get stuck in your head after one listen. Kudos to Smith for another great release to add to his growing catalog of songs.

Conner-smith-new-song

Conner Smith’s new song “Take It Slow” is out now.

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

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on InstagramTikTok, and Facebook.

“Take It Slow” 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.

Conner-smith-new-song-take-it-slow

Conner Smith Makes Artist Debut with Two New Songs

Newcomer, Conner Smith, introduces himself as an artist with two brand songs, “Learn From It” and “Tennessee”. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.

We love supporting rising talent in the country music industry and Valory Music Co’s latest signee, Conner Smith is an artist that fits the bill! His musical talent compares well alongside acts like Sam Hunt, Tyler Rich, and Kip Moore. Today, the singer releases two brand new songs simply titled “Learned From It” and “Tennessee.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to finally get some music in y’alls hands. Long time coming and now it all begins,” shared an excited Smith on his Instagram a few days ago. Both new songs feel familiar, yet innovative. “Learned From It” is slightly more uptempo. The track takes us along all of the mistakes and experiences we all go through as we grow up. Ultimately, the singer relies on the adage that we all learn from those things. The song allows us as listeners to learn more about the artist and his story.

“Yeah I learned from em // Yeah we learned from it, all of em days, when we were young and wild // Yeah we turned up that little town on all those Friday nights // Cause growing up with nothing to do makes you play with fire a little // You get burned from em // but yeah we learned from em”

“Tennessee” shows the softer, more romantic side of the singer. As Smith shared with fans on his social media the new song is all about “taking a girl back to her roots.” The song feels reminiscent of songs like “More Than My Hometown” by Morgan Wallen, a clear influence in the newcomer’s artistry. On the new track, Smith sings about wanting to know everything about his love interest, especially about where she grew up and the small town that made her who she is.

“I just want to get you // Sitting by the river // Sippin’ on some strawberry shine // Yeah I just want to know you like your hometown knows you // Who you were before you were mine”

Connor Smith’s new songs were the perfect release to introduce himself. Fans get to see multiple sides to the singer’s artistry and personality. We’re excited to see what’s next for the talented artist.

Conner Smith's new songs "Learn From It" and "Tennessee" are out now, June 25th

Conner Smith’s new songs “Learn From It” and “Tennessee” are out now, June 25th

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

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on InstagramTikTok, and Facebook.

“Learn From It” and “Tennessee” are 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.