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Dustin Lynch Earns 9th Number One at Country Radio with “Stars Like Confetti”

Dustin Lynch earns his ninth number one song at country radio with his single, “Stars Like Confetti.” Learn more below.

Dustin Lynch continues to crank out hit after hit in his long and impressive career. While he recently came out with a new album called, Killed The Cowboy, his last album, Blue in the Sky is still impressing fans. The latest single off the record, “Stars Like Confetti” is officially the number one song at country radio, marking Lynch’s ninth number one single of his career.

Written by Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, and Zach Crowell, the song was inspired by a trip Rhett and his wife took to rural Montana. While Rhett declined to record the song himself, it fell into perfect hands with Lynch ultimately cutting the beautiful and expressive song. “Stars Like Confetti” speaks to romance, beauty, and all related things in a poetic and country-fied way.

“You already know // Like my heart, you can have it // Ooh, I don’t remember what the radio was playin’ // I was hangin’ like the moon on all the words your lips were sayin’ // All I know is there was magic in that Chevy // Baby, you were glowin’, God was throwin’ // Stars like confetti, ah // Stars like confetti, ah”

Congrats to Lynch and his team on their ninth number one single at country radio!

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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

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Dustin Lynch: ‘Killed The Cowboy’ Album Review

Dustin Lynch’s brand new album, Killed The Cowboy is out now, September 29th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music below.

“Everybody wanna know where did all the cowboys go?” Dustin Lynch asks on the first line of his new studio album, Killed the Cowboy, out now. For the 38-year-old Tennessee native, his sixth studio album marks a crossroads for the singer-songwriter, one of country music’s remaining hat-wearing crooners. 

Lynch co-wrote five of the LP’s 12 tracks, enlisting the likes of mega hitmakers like Devin Dawson, Jessi Alexander, Jordan Reynolds, Jameson Rodgers, Zach Crowell, Ashley Gorley, and more to also lend their talents. The result is arguably Lynch’s most interesting and sonically cohesive album to date.

“When I’m off the road and working on my farm, I have a lot of inner dialogue. It’s a boxing match inside of me, between living in the moment and enjoying where I am, versus what’s the best version of me five, 10, or 20 years down the road,” Lynch explains in a statement. “What do I want to be? What do I want life to look like? Who do I want to be around? Killed The Cowboy is that back-and-forth. It’s me asking myself, ‘Am I okay? Or am I weird for not having found my person yet? And is she even out there?’ My hope is that this album finds someone who needs to hear it. I want Killed The Cowboy to embrace the single people of the world and lift them up, to let them know that you don’t have to live a ‘normal’ life to still be happy in your own skin.”

The album opens with that title track, a darker and more mysterious sound for Lynch, who blames a “girl like you” for breaking his cowboy heart. “When I first heard ‘Killed The Cowboy,’ I was drawn to its haunting melody, and then I got to thinking about the lyric and realized, ‘Damn, I’m this guy right now in my life,’” adds Lynch. “Relationships can come in hot and heavy and then implode. But that heartbreak, in a weird way, also makes you feel alive, to have another person move you like that. You feel that roller coaster of emotion and passion, and that sparks me creatively as an artist.” 

“Honky Tonk Heartbreaker” is a surefire hit, a catchy and earwormy pop country gem about a girl that’s sure to break some hearts. “I think she might be a honky tonk heartbreaker // She’s gonna hurt somebody up in this bar // I think she might be a honky tonk heartbreaker,” He croons over the addictive medley. “Lucky for me, I got a honky tonk heart.”

“Chevrolet” features Jelly Roll, and adds new lyrics to Dobie Gray’s classic melody on “Drift Away.” “There is something in the air in Nashville right now, where writers are on the same wavelength and doing cool things like interpolating classic songs into something new,” Lynch said in a statement. “When ‘Chevrolet’ came across our plate, it floored me. Everyone knows Dobie Gray’s ‘Drift Away’ – the melody of that song is timeless. Having Jelly Roll on it adds an extra edge.”

“Just gimme a dirt road, the windows down // Wanna get lost on the edge of town // In your Chevrolet // She said gimme a six-pack, some Brooks & Dunn // If you want a country girl you just found one // Let’s step away, yeah // In your Chevrolet”

Meanwhile, songs like “George Strait Jr,” “Only Girl in this Town,” and the radio-ready “Trouble With This Truck” are the kind of modern country Lynch is best known for, with the latter being a stellar breakup track. “It’s like I drove it off the showroom floor,” He sings of a truck that’s just a bit empty. “Only trouble with this truck, she ain’t in it no more.”

There’s the introspective “If I Stop Drinkin’,” which finds Lynch lonely at the bottom of a bottle, while “Blue Lights” is dark and moody, comparing escaping memories of an ex to trying to outrun the law. “Trying to outrun your memory is like trying to outrun blue lights,” He muses on “Lights,” while he cleverly spins lyrics on “Breakin’ Up Down,” lamenting “We got breakin’ up down.”

Lynch slows things down on songs like “Listen to the Radio” and “Lone Star,” which finds him smoothly moving on and approaching someone special in a bar. Meanwhile, “Listen to the Radio” embraces a familiar trend in country music, as he name-drops other songs when a girl suggests they turn up the radio.

“I think we should listen to the radio // Turn it up and let it tell us where to go // Sit out underneath an Amarillo sky // Baby take our time // Yeah, I already got one bottle of wine and two dixie cups // Ain’t goin’ down ‘til the sun goes up // Do a little kiss me in the dark // Add a couple stars where the cool grass grows // I think we should listen to the radio”

The album ends with “Long Way Home,” a 90’s-country-inspired two-stepping ballad that allows Lynch to flex his vocal muscles. Here, the cowboy-hatted crooner is realizing that he’s in for a special night if he takes the scenic route, 

“We should probably take the long way home// We should probably take that old dirt road// Steal some minutes from your miles// Some kisses from your smiles// Yeah, I’m thinking we both need some more time alone// We should probably take the long way home”

On Killed the Cowboy, Dustin Lynch does what he does best, but he does it even better than before. While the singer-songwriter may be at a crossroads in his personal life, it’s lent itself to some great new songs, and the cowboy is musically alive and well.

Killed The Cowboy Track List:

  1. Killed The Cowboy (Jordan Reynolds, Devin Dawson, Anderson East)
  2. Honky Tonk Heartbreaker (Dustin Lynch, Hunter Phelps, Zach Crowell, Ben Johnson)
  3. George Strait Jr. (Dustin Lynch, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Reynolds, Andy Albert)*
  4. Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll) (Chase McGill, Jessi Alexander, Hunter Phelps, Mentor Williams)
  5. If I Stop Drinkin’” (John Morgan, Dallas Davidson, Kyle Fishman, Jordan Minton)
  6. Only Girl In This Town (Devin Dawson, Josh Thompson, Kyle Fishman)
  7. Breakin’ Up Down (Hunter Phelps, Zach Crowell, Blake Pendergrass, Brent Anderson)
  8. Trouble With This Truck (Dustin Lynch, Hunter Phelps, Ashley Gorley, Zach Crowell)
  9. Blue Lights (Jameson Rodgers, Jake Mitchell, Brent Anderson, Hunter Phelps)
  10. Lone Star (Devin Dawson, Jordan Reynolds, Alysa Vanderheym)
  11. Listen To The Radio (Dustin Lynch, Hunter Phelps, Randy Montana, Ben Johnson)
  12. Long Way Home (Dustin Lynch, Kyle Fishman, Andy Albert)

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Honky Tonk Heartbreaker
  2. If I Stop Drinking
  3. Trouble With This Truck
  4. Listen to the Radio
dustin-lynch-album

Dustin Lynch’s new album, ‘Killed The Cowboy’ is out now on all streaming platforms.

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

Lynch will head out on his Killed the Cowboy Tour in early 2024. For tour dates and more, click here.

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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

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Dustin Lynch Shares New Song “Killed The Cowboy”

Dustin Lynch releases new song, “Killed The Cowboy,” out now on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track here and learn more.

Platinum-selling country star, Dustin Lynch is readying fans for a new album! The twelve song project is set to embody Lynch both as an artist and as a person. Today, the singer-songwriter shares the title track, “Killed The Cowboy.”

“It was that midnight stare // That look in her eyes like a knife to the heart // It was that poison kiss // Cherry red lips, oh my God, leaning up against the bar // And I know it wasn’t the smoke, it wasn’t the drink // And I’ve got the proof // If you wanna know what killed the cowboy // Ooh (a girl like you)”

The song is the perfect teaser to the full album. According to the singer in a recent press release, “When I’m off the road and working on my farm, I have a lot of inner dialogue. It’s a boxing match inside of me, between living in the moment and enjoying where I am, versus what’s the best version of me five, 10, or 20 years down the road,”Killed The Cowboy is that back-and-forth. […] My hope is that this album finds someone who needs to hear it. I want Killed The Cowboy to embrace the single people of the world and lift them up, to let them know that you don’t have to live a ‘normal’ life to still be happy in your own skin.”

Although Lynch has not yet found his person and that is reflected in the title-track, the song is powerful and relatable. “Killed The Cowboy” showcases the singer at his very best as an artist and as a storyteller. Stay tuned for the album, out September 29th!

dustin-lynch-new-song

Dustin Lynch shares new song, “Killed The Cowboy,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“Kill The Cowboy” 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.

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Dustin Lynch: ‘Blue In The Sky’ – Album Review

Dustin Lynch’s new album, Blue In The Sky is out now, February 11th on all streaming platforms. Learn about the album below.

Things are looking sunny for Dustin Lynch today, February 11, as he releases Blue In The Sky, his fifth studio album with Broken Bow Records. With twelve new tracks, five of which he co-wrote, the Zach Crowell-produced collection features a perfect combination of party anthems and heartfelt ballads.

“Get ready for a collection of songs that are going to make you feel good and want to mix a drink and party with your friends,” shares Lynch in a statement. He kicks the album off with a bang, opening with the rousing up-tempo “Party Mode,” that, in many ways, feels like it’s setting the stage for his tour of the same name. Lynch tells American Songwriter that that song came to him just after a break up. “Breakups suck, but they’re not always a bad thing. You can fulfill yourself and feel excited again about life and what life holds and all the unknowns,” he said. “‘Party Mode’ was sent to me right after that window of time. It was a perfect match for where I was, and getting to do a lot of living out on the boats because we weren’t touring as much, so it just fit perfectly.”

Another stage-ready anthem is “Stars Like Confetti,” co-written by Thomas Rhett. “Baby you were glowin’ // God was throwin’ // Stars like confetti,” Lynch sings of a night under the stars with a special lady over an earwormy melody that is sure to get stuck in your head.

Meanwhile, “Somethin’ That Makes You Smile” is a song that’s perfect for the crazy world we’re living in, celebrating the simpler things in life. “Whatever it is, ya better get to it,” He sings, reminding listeners to enjoy whatever it is that makes them smile, whether it’s working on a car, fishing, or a drink with friends.

Lynch enlists some of his famous friends to join him on Blue In The Sky, including MacKenzie Porter on the previously released chart-topper “Thinking ‘Bout You.” Additionally, Chris Lane trades verses with the singer on the tropics-laden “Tequila on a Boat” and Riley Green joins for “Huntin’ Land.”  While the former is an ode to exactly what the title implies, the latter takes listeners on a clever lyrical journey. “Huntin’ Land” is a more traditional country song, a bit tongue-in-cheek as Lynch and Green trade verses about an annoying girlfriend whose “daddy has huntin’ land.” If he breaks her heart, he’ll lose access to a favorite pastime, so he might just stick around.

While Lynch may feel at home on party songs, he shines on the slower tracks, including “Pasadena” and “Not Every Cowboy.” On the almost etheral “Pasadena,” Lynch reminisces about a short fling that could’ve been so much more, but slipped away. The track is only made better by gorgeous background vocals from the incomparable Sarah Buxton.

Meanwhile, “Not Every Cowboy” is the album’s final track, a slow ballad that is both poignant and memorable. Here, he’s trying to prove he’s not like all the other cowboys. “Girl, I bet your momma warned you  // ’bout guys like me // And this outlaw in my blood  // Ain’t a wildcard up my sleeve // ‘Cause I ain’t a silhouette Stetson // Heading out west // In a red sunset // and taking your heart with me // So let me show you // that not every cowboy leaves”

On Blue In the Sky, Dustin Lynch offers a solid follow-up to 2020’s Tullahoma. With songs like “Stars Like Confetti ” and “Pasadena,” Lynch is out to prove that he’s “Not Every Cowboy.”

Blue in the Sky Tracklist:

  1. “Party Mode” (Jerry Flowers, Ryan Beaver, Roman Alexander, Jared Keim, Matt McGinn)
  2. “Thinking ’Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
  3. “Stars Like Confetti” (Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell)
  4. “Somethin’ That Makes You Smile” (Erik Dylan, Andy Sheridan, Wyatt McCubbin)
  5. “Break It On A Beach” (Dustin Lynch, Ashley Gorley, Hunter Phelps, Zach Crowell)
  6. “Tequila On A Boat (feat. Chris Lane)” (Hillary Lindsey, Justin Ebach, Matt Alderman)
  7. “Tennessee Trouble” (Dustin Lynch, Matt Dragstrem, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Minton)
  8. “Summer Never Ended” (Cole Taylor, Ben Hayslip, Paul DiGiovanni)
  9. “Back Road TN” (Ben Hayslip, Brock Berryhill, Jameson Rodgers, Brent Anderson)
  10. “Huntin’ Land (feat. Riley Green)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
  11. “Pasadena” (Dustin Lynch, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell)
  12. “Not Every Cowboy” (Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Conner Smith, Heather Morgan)
dustin-lynch-new-album

Dustin Lynch’s new album, ‘Blue in the Sky’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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

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5 Things to Expect from Dustin Lynch’s New Album ‘Blue In The Sky’

Dustin Lynch’s fifth studio album, Blue In The Sky is out now, released on February 11th. Here are five things to expect from the project.

  1. Dustin Lych included the new version of his 6-week #1 song “Thinking ‘Bout You” with Mackenzie Porter on Blue In The Sky. 

“I remember in October being like ‘we’re done for the year’, and it was like another gear was set. All of a sudden November was TV, and an award show performance [with Mackenzie], and it was a lot of fun… to have a 6-week #1 is something you can’t predict or expect… it’s definitely a song to be proud of.”

  1. The new album was written mostly summer into fall, and many of the songs are a result of a writer retreat Lynch went on.

“The writing retreat gave us a song called “Tennessee Trouble” – we wrote that one in Park City, and we literally wrote the song on the last day of the retreat. Throughout covid, the creative process was completely different from what I’m used to. Usually, I’m writing when I’m out on the road.”

  1. Some of the songs come as a result from Lynch breaking up with his girlfriend over covid. 

“I was in a relationship, my girlfriend moved in with me because we didn’t know if the world was going to end, we learn how to live together, we break up, I get through those weeds and embrace going out with the boys again, and so I come out on the other side of that relationship knowing a lot more about what I want out of life.”

  1. His proudest writing moment on the album is “Pasadena”. 

“One of the coolest moments for me as a creative, just as a songwriter in Nashville is Pasadena, because I wrote that song in 2013, and it just shows you that as we write songs… timing is just a huge thing and so is this wonderful journey we’re on of creating. I wrote that song after playing a Rodeo show in Pasadena.”

  1. While the album has a lot of fun, light moments, Lynch definitely shows a bit of a darker side of himself on this record too. 

“One of my driving forces these last few years while making music was let’s make it fun… I don’t wanna bring the crowd down too much in a live show. Even if we’re writing about a breakup, I try to steer it from the darker tones… [but] ‘Break It on a Beach’ is definitely the most autobiographical song we have on here. It’s literally how [my breakup] went down. I didn’t want to carry on [a relationship] that wasn’t right for me or her [and that’s what the song is about].”

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Dustin Lynch’s new album ‘Blue In The Sky,’ out this Friday.

Click her for a full album review of Dustin Lynch’s record Blue In The Sky.

To keep up with Dustin Lynch follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

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Dustin Lynch’s “Thinking ‘Bout You” with MacKenzie Porter Goes #1

Dustin Lynch’s song, “Thinking ‘Bout You” with MacKenzie Porter officially goes number one on the country radio charts.

This week, Dustin Lynch scores his eighth number one song with “Thinking “Bout You.” For his collaborator, MacKenzie Porter, while she has three number one songs on Canadian country charts, the single marks Porter’s very first US number one hit.

Back in March, Lynch released a new version of the song as a single featuring pop-country vocalist, Porter on the track with him. The push-pull of the two distinct voices create an interesting dynamic on the already enticing tune. It was just a matter of time before the track became a hit with fans and radio alike.

“I was just thinkin’ ’bout that weekend out on Cumberland Lake // And that one time in Baton Rouge when we made out in the rain // Where we went chasin’ fallin’ stars on a hill at your daddy’s farm // Don’t be sorry for callin’ me up out of the blue // I was was just thinkin’ ’bout you // Oh, I was just thinkin’ ’bout you”

It is always exciting to see an established entertainer collaborate with a rising artist. It is even more exciting to see the song hit the number one spot! Congrats to Lynch and Porter and their teams on their success!

Join our Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Dustin Lynch and MacKenzie Porter announcements and releases.

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

To keep up with MacKenzie Porter, follow her on InstagramTwitter, and Facebook.

“Thinking ‘Bout You” 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.

Dustin Lynch Releases Two Brand New Songs Post Collaborations

Dustin Lynch’s new songs, “Not Every Cowboy” and “Pasadena” are available now, July 16th on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.

Small town boy, Dustin Lynch released two new tracks today, July 16th. “Not Every Cowboy” and “Pasadena” are out now. The new music follows his recent collaborations “Tequila on a Boat” with Chris Lane, and his re-recording of “Thinking ‘Bout You” with MacKenzie Porter.

Driven by fiddle and acoustic guitar, “Not Every Cowboy” is a pure country, love ballad. It is about breaking the stereotype of the typical cowboy. Penned by Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Conner Smith, and Heather Morgan, the man takes pride in the fact that he’s still a cowboy even though he doesn’t ride a black mustang, drink whiskey like it’s water, and –most importantly- -doesn’t ride away from the woman he’s with. Lynch’s powerful vocals shine in the catchy chorus.

Girl I bet your mama warned you about guys like me // and this outlaw in my blood, ain’t a wildcard up my sleeve // ‘Cause I ain’t a silhouette standing // headed out west in the red sunset // taking your heart with me // So let me show you that not every cowboy leaves

“Pasadena” tells the story of two out-of-town strangers who met and quickly fell in the love in the sunny, southern California city. Although they are only there for three nights, the two plan on making the most out of their stay, due to the lavish chemistry built between them. Sarah Buxton provides backing vocals on this track, which was written by Jeff Hyde and Ryan Tyndell. Both songs were produced by Zach Crowell, who produced Lynch’s latest album, Tullahoma, all of Sam Hunt’s catalog, and many other songs for Nashville’s brightest acts.

Like many other country artists, Lynch has several headlining and festival tour dates on his schedule. For tickets, head to his website.

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Dustin Lynch’s new songs, “Not Every Cowboy” and “Pasadena” are available now, July 16th

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on InstagramTwitter, and Facebook.

“Not Every Cowboy” and “Pasadena” are 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.

Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane Team Up for Summer Jam “Tequila On A Boat”

Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane joined forces on a new summer anthem, “Tequila On A Boat”. Available now, May 14th, on all streaming platforms, take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new song.

“Tequila On A boat” perfectly captures everything you want from a summer’s day. From the sun and blue skies to the company you’re with and the drinks flowing. We can’t help but picture ourselves on the water and count down the days until summer after listening to this one.

“Tequila on a boat // a boat on a lake // a lake on fire and the tans ain’t fake // a girl with a smile // smiling at me // me with my eyes on her in the heat”

Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane come together on the track just in time for summer. The collaboration arrives just as the two are coming off largely successful years and both with multiple singles currently on the charts. 

Lynch’s latest project, Tullahoma (2020) included hits songs “Riding Roads”, “Thinkin ‘Bout You”(originally recorded with Lauren Alaina on the album, but recently reimagined with MacKenzie Porter and a current single climbing the charts), and “Momma’s House”, also climbing the charts.

“Tequila On A Boat” marks Lane’s fourth song release in just four weeks! Most recently and just in time for Mother’s Day was “That’s What Mama’s Are For”, preceded by “Summer Job Money” and “Fill Them Boots”. At the end of last year, Lane received his third #1 with “Big Big Plans”, following “Fix” and “I Don’t Know About You”.

Nearly halfway through 2021, the year is shaping up to be a good one for Lynch and Lane and we can only hope to see more new music from the two stars.

Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane's new song, "Tequila On A Boat" is available now, May 14th, on all streaming platforms

Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane’s new song, “Tequila On A Boat” is available now, May 14th, on all streaming platforms

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
To keep up with Chris Lane, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Tequila On A Boat” 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.

Dustin Lynch Taps MacKenzie Porter for “Thinking ‘Bout You” Collab

Dustin Lynch’s “Thinking ‘Bout You” with MacKenzie Porter is available now, March 19th, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.

Last year, Dustin Lynch released his Tullahoma album which included a smashing duet with Lauren Alaina. Now, he re-released “Thinking ‘Bout You” as a single, featuring rising pop-country artist MacKenzie Porter.

The lyrics set the scene of a phone call between two exes reminiscing on their past. Lynch opens the verse and is pleasantly surprised by the call, citing it as “the last call I thought I’d get”. He goes on to ask different questions, such as how she is and how her mother is. In general, the story has vivid imagery, and it continues to build to a booming chorus.

“I was just thinking ’bout that weekend out on Cumberland Lake // And that one time in Baton Rouge when we made out in the rain // Where we went chasing falling stars // On a hill at your daddy’s farm // Don’t be sorry for callin’ me up right out of the blue // I was just thinking ’bout you”

When Porter comes in during the second verse, the song immediately has a different vibe. Lauren Alaina, who previously sang this verse, sounded more nostalgic, while Porter sounds more direct and more almost daring towards Lynch. It gives the song a whole new life. The two of them on the chorus sound really great together, and by the time they reach the last chorus, their voices truly soar.

“Thinking ‘Bout You” has an almost addictive groove to it. The second you hear it, you want to hear it again and again. It’s a perfect song to soundtrack your spring and summer – and hopefully soon, it’ll be amazing at a live show. For now, it’s the perfect piece of candy we need to get through the last few cold weeks of the season.

Dustin Lynch's new song, "Thinking 'Bout You" with MacKenzie Porter is available now, March 19th

Dustin Lynch’s new song, “Thinking ‘Bout You” with MacKenzie Porter is available now, March 19th

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
To keep up with MacKenzie Porter, follow her on InstagramTwitter, and Facebook.

“Thinking ‘Bout You” 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.

Best Country Albums of 2020 – Our Favorite Picks

As this crazy, unprecedented year finally comes to a close, the one thing we could all find solace in was music in 2020.  The New York Country Swag team is highlighting the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre by featuring our favorite album picks of 2020.  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 the albums we’ve had on repeat this year.

Best Country Albums of 2020 - Our Favorite Picks

Best Country Albums of 2020 – Our Favorite Picks

Find below each of our team member’s favorite albums and why in our 2020 best country album picks.

 

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: Southern Symphony – Russell Dickerson

Although the album has only been out a few weeks, I would be lying if I said I haven’t been playing it on repeat nonstop since its release. It’s one of those albums you can listen to over and over again and each time fall in love with a new song. This was one of the records I was looking forward to most this year and I’m so glad that in a year of uncertainty, this new music from Russell Dickerson has made its way out into the world. I can not wait to see songs from this project performed live!

Honorable Mention:  Southside – Sam Hunt – When I think of the early days of quarantine, I think of this album and listening to it on repeat night and day. It’s full of jams, relatable lyrics, and clever twists that made it easy to listen to over and over again.

 

Christina Bosch, Managing Editor 

Pick: The Other Side – Cam

Cam

Throughout this unprecedented and unpredictable year music has been healing and also very painful to listen to. Missing live music and the way our old life played out was something I had to come to grips with early on in the pandemic but each time a new album was released, I fell deeper and deeper in love with music and was able to really focus on my favorite part of the country genre – the lyrics.

Picking a favorite album of 2020 was nearly impossible. Three different albums were constantly playing throughout the year, the first half of the year was Nightfall by Little Big Town, then came my favorite singer-songwriter HARDY with A ROCK. Both of those albums were chosen by two of our writers so finally, released at the end of October was Cam’s sophomore project, The Other Side.

Cam’s impeccable vocal ability blew me away from the moment I first heard her sing but with this second project, she proves her power in this genre. Each song tells a different story from heartbreak, divorce, growing older, and a love that is envied by all. “Happier for You”, “Redwood Tree”, and “What Goodbye Means” are highlights but even choosing three songs to showcase was hard. I am so glad that “Diane” is getting a second life on this project as well after being released back in 2017.

For any fans of real country music that tells a story, The Other Side will instantly become a favorite for years to come.

 

Lucie Bernheim, Contributing Writer

Pick: The Dream – Hailey Whitters

2020 has felt like multiple years rolled into one. Between a global pandemic, civil unrest, and ultimately, vast unpredictability, the true silver lining has been the incredible music released over the last 12 months. This year has produced some of my favorite works of all time, two being Brett Eldredge’s risk-taking Sunday Drive, which I got to review in July, and Hailey Whitters’ magical and brilliant The Dream. Choosing between these albums was hard because they are both my favorites on different ways, but when it came down to it, I had to choose Hailey Whitters’ The Dream.

The Dream is a dream album. It’s cohesive and gorgeous, insightful and witty, heartbreaking and hopeful. “Dream, Girl” and “All The Cool Girls” have a real groove and mystique to them, making them standouts. “Janice At The Hotel Bar” is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of song. I remember where I was when I first heard the song, walking in Central Park, so moved I had to stop. I immediately played it for my parents and my sister. Lyrically, it’s incredible, as is any story-song written by Whitters and the unparalleled Lori McKenna. “Paris in the spring of 1973/She said if there is a heaven, that’s where I’ll be”.  Something about the delivery and production makes it incredibly evocative, with Whitters’ reverbed vocals and a shimmering acoustic guitar gliding you along. It’s the kind of musical moment you never forget.

It’s hard to encapsulate what music has meant to me this year. “The Days” gave me the closure I needed to end my senior year of high school; “Heartland” and “Janice At The Hotel Bar” got me through my first semester of college. Whenever I hear this record, I will always be transported back in time to 2020, a year that even if we try to forget, we never will. I can’t wait to see what Hailey Whitters does next.

 

Dylan Bestler, Contributing Writer

Pick: Southside – Sam Hunt

With all live shows being canceled this year, we needed artists to drop a lot of new music to fill the void and get through quarantine. Luckily, country artists delivered and we got a ton of great albums from Luke Bryan, Kelsea Ballerini, Dustin Lynch, Brett Eldredge, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Carly Pearce, Chris Stapleton, and many others. My favorite was Sam Hunt’s Southside.

Hunt covered a lot of themes on this record. Being that his last album was released five and a half years ago (which could’ve been another reason why I loved Southside so much), he had a lot of stories to tell. His songs are very personal to him, but are general enough where others can relate as well.

If you want to dance and have a good time, “Kinfolks” and “Hard to Forget” are great tailgate anthems. If you want to get in your feels and maybe even cry, “2016” and “That Ain’t Beautiful” are for you. “Young Once” and “Sinning With You” paint great pictures of young love if you want to reminisce on your youth. There is a song for every type of emotion on this record which makes it so versatile and relevant.

Honorable Mentions: A ROCK-HARDY, The Lemonade Stand-Tenille Townes, The K Is Silent-Hot Country Knights.

 

Kristina Callahan, Contributing Writer

Pick: Tullahoma – Dustin Lynch

Remember a time when artists put out albums, did press about the new record, and maybe even have an album release party? It seems like that was a lifetime ago. Dustin Lynch put out Tullahoma, his fourth studio album, right before the Covid-19 pandemic hit and let me tell you, I can still listen to it front to back nearly a year later. The album is named after Lynch’s hometown of Tullahoma, Tennessee, and is a central theme throughout the album from running into an ex-girlfriend at the Circle K in “Thinking ‘Bout You” or singing about momma’s fried chicken in “Dirt Road.”
I grew up on a dirt road dreaming ’bout making a name // And getting out of dodge and the same ol’ same // Graduate and settle down, man I was out of that town // Now I catch myself rewind and reminiscing // ‘Bout a small town girl and mama’s fried chicken // I can taste it right now // Let me tell you I’m proud
 
Lynch sings about his hometown in a way that so many that grew up in the small towns can relate to: driving down backroads, having everything remind you of an ex, and memories with some of your best friends. I think that’s why I love this album so much, it’s relatable and simple. When Lynch can finally perform these songs live in front of thousands of fans, I have no doubt they’ll be crowd favorites.

Jeremy Chua, Contributing Writer

Pick: Rollin’ On – Jesse Daniel

If your knowledge of country music relies solely on what’s played on country radio, you probably wouldn’t have heard of Jesse Daniel. But, if you listen to country radio and also keep up critics’ reviews, you would have heard the buzz about the California native. Though Daniel released his debut album back in 2018, it is his sophomore (and latest) effort that caught the ears of many. Rollin’ On is a throwback to the warmth of classic country, whilst also giving a nod to the Bakersfield sound made famous by icons like Buck Owens and Dwight Yoakam.

The twelve-track project boasts plenty of fiddle, steel, mandolin, and all your favorite traditional country elements. Sometimes, you hear the phrase “my life is a country song” tossed around in lighthearted humor. But Daniel’s life truly is a country song. He’s lived through poverty, drugs, substance abuse, jail time, rehab and more. This roller-coaster journey is on full display in Rollin’ On. “Champion” boasts a story of overcoming odds, “If You Ain’t Happy Now (You Never Will Be)” is a timely reminder of true contentment, while the rollicking title track celebrates the adventure of life everyone is on. Like classic country? Like authentic songwriting? Like a record with impeccable production? Then Jesse Daniel’s Rollin’ On is definitely for you. Look out for him in 2021! This album is just the beginning for the rising country star.

 

Erin Crosby, Contributing Writer

Pick: Lady Like (Deluxe) – Ingrid Andress

This “More Hearts Than Mine” singer-songwriter and piano ballad enthusiast did not only release LadyLike, her debut record, in a time when the word quarantine was still freshly coming off the tongue like a foreign island that protrudes its way onto the coast, impacting the nation in more ways than could have been anticipated. But, Ingrid Andress followed up with a deluxe edition just six months after the collection itself.

LadyLike (Deluxe) deepens and expands a presence of the crisp, lovable yet heartbreaking sentiment that exceeds an already palpable sense of her artistry in the original album. A stripped-down and honest production is only accentuated in the follow-up project with a rearranged tracklist that is said to tell the story in the order that it occurred. Each song acts as a chapter of Andress’ life whether it highlights emotional distress or an attempt at a real relationship, though intentions vary throughout depending on where you left off in the story. LadyLike (Deluxe) acts as a true representation of modern ideologies of romance while not closing the curtain on inner frustrations and insecurities along the way.

 

Caleigh DeCaprio, Contributing Writer

Pick: kelsea– Kelsea Ballerini

There were a few albums that I found myself playing on repeat this year, including The Speed of Now Part 1, What you see Ain’t Always What You Get, and Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley, Chapter 1: Snake Oil. But when it came to what album got me ~through~ this year, it was kelsea.

Too many of these songs felt like Kelsea wrote them just for me. I’ve never heard a song that was so lyrically perfect for me before I listened to “club”. Seriously if you know me, this song is my anthem. I had already loved “homecoming queen?” and “la” because of how vulnerable and relatable they were and when I heard the full album, I felt the very same way about “overshare”, “half of my hometown”, and “a country song”. I related so strongly to these songs to the point that I felt I could have written them myself. (not that I could have done that, but you know what I mean).

The artistry in the songwriting and production of this entire album is a pure example of a true and rare talent. No matter what song you come across on this record, it will be some of the most vulnerable and honest music you have heard. Ballerini shares her highs and lows and everything in between. It’s not that common for an artist to be so open and forward about their struggles with anxiety and introversion, especially this early on in their career, but Ballerini showed that side of her and then some with this album.

My heart hurt for her when this album came out the week the world shut down. I wanted her to get to play these songs live and receive all the glory she deserved for this beautiful work of art. However, the way that she was able to spin that negative into the reimagining of the very same songs on ballerini in order to give herself the chance to re-fall in love with these songs was extraordinary and a lovely example of music that would not exist if it weren’t for this year’s events. The re-imagined ballerini album just made fans understand even more how much love she had for this collection of songs.

The pair of albums was meant to show that there are two sides to every story and every person. Understanding that we all have more to us than what is seen on the surface is an important and beautiful lesson that we can take away from these albums and this year. When the day finally comes for Kelsea to play these songs on tour, I will be the first one in line to see it.

Julia Grubbs, Contributing Writer 

Pick: Starting Over – Chris Stapleton

2020 has been a certain kind of year, so I was looking for something that told a complete story. As soon as I heard Starting Over, I knew it captured everything I was feeling about how the year had gone: some of the anger, some of the resentment, some of the just getting up every day for a brand new day that looked very similar to the one before. While Stapleton always manages to speak truth to listeners in ways no one else can, this year we needed comfort and assurance unlike any other that we will make it through this. “Cold” is one of my favorites, using his iconic tone and lyricism to hit raw emotion. “Starting Over”, just like the title of the album, reminds us that through this journey, we can still learn and grow, find moments of joy, and serves as a reminder that we must accept what has happened, and use that as a pivotal moment for the path forward.

 

Nicole Piering, Contributing Writer

Pick: Nightfall – Little Big Town

My favorite and most listened to album of 2020 was easily Little Big Town’s Nightfall, which came out in simpler pre-pandemic times back in January. In fact, their phenomenal concert at the Apollo was my last taste of live music this year, so at least I went out on a high note.

Although not as single-heavy as some of their other releases, Nightfall is truly a cohesive masterclass in harmony. With standout songs such as “Sugar Coat,” “Questions,” and “The Daughters,” this album is one I’ll be listening to through 2021 and beyond.
Pick: My Gift – Carrie Underwood
Whether or not you’re a religious person, this album is absolutely stunning. We needed something positive to come out of 2020 and the first ever holiday project from the queen of country definitely delivered. From gorgeous covers of Christmas classics like “O Holy Night”, “Mary Did You Know” and “Joyful Joyful” to new original songs like “Let There Be Peace” and “Sweet Baby Jesus” the album truly has something for everyone. Underwood’s voice shines on the power ballads and the softer hymns alike, and you can hear her emotion and faith come through every song.
My personal favorites off the album happen to be the two collaborations: “Hallelujah” with John Legend and “Little Drummer Boy” featuring Underwood’s son, Isaiah. Curling up with hot chocolate and a blanket and listening to My Gift has been my weekend routine since it came out in September, and I’m definitely going to be listening to these songs well after the holiday season.

What a year wild ride 2020 has been. While it was so strange not going to any concerts, new music from many great country artists certainly got me through. While this was a tough decision to make, my favorite album of 2020 had to be Granger Smith’s Country Things (Both Volumes). It just gives you such perspective to live in the moment and enjoy the little things. This was such an important message for 2020 as while we may not have gotten to enjoy the big events, we got to enjoy those moments with our loved ones we may not have gotten to if we had a year of our normal, busy schedules.

 

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: A ROCK – HARDY

If there is one thing that got me through this year, it was music. As 2020 comes to a close, I could not be more grateful for country music! With that being said, my favorite record of 2020 has to be HARDY’s album, A ROCK.

I am completely in love with everything HARDY does as a singer, a songwriter, and a performer. He continues to exceed my expectations and delivers music that I relate to, enjoy, and want to share with my friends and family. HARDY’s ability to craft lyrics is a skill I’ll never get enough of. Moreover, his record is a cohesive masterpiece that tells a full story from start to finish.

Songs like the title track, “A ROCK,” “GIVE HEAVEN SOME HELL,” and “SO CLOSE” are all so different, yet distinctly HARDY.  Time after time, the singer-songwriter and superstar in the making proves that he has an IQ high above the rest when it comes to creating a captivating song and full-length project.

I truly cannot wait to see what he does next. Also, it is an added bonus that HARDY gave us all a live concert via streaming to celebrate this record. Even through the screen, I could feel how amazing the record truly is and will be when performed in front of a live audience; hopefully next year! Congrats to HARDY and his team for delivering a badass and unique record to an ever-growing fanbase!

Honorable Mention: Jordan Davis Self-titled EP

 

How do our favorite picks match up to yours? Let us know what music you’ve had on repeat in 2020. Already anticipating new music in 2021? Check out our list of albums to expect in the new year here.

 

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