Tag Archive for: Dustin Lynch

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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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
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Dustin Lynch Energetically Brings Tullahoma to New York City

Dustin Lynch iHeart

Chart-topper Dustin Lynch took the stage at iHeart Theatre last night to celebrate the release of his new album Tullahoma. An intimate crowd was lucky enough to enjoy the new music in person, but fans anywhere could tune into the show by live-streaming or listening on the radio, brought to us by iHeartCountry. Throughout the night, Lynch spoke about the new album, his upcoming touring schedule alongside Travis Denning and Old Dominion, and performed both old and new hits! He also showed off his jokester side, keeping the audience laughing and dancing the whole show.

The singer-songwriter revealed the inspiration behind the album, sharing that when he “stepped away and look at all the songs, [he] realized, ‘wait a second’, there’s a little piece of [his] hometown in each of the songs”. Lynch continued… “I started digging deep and realized all of our hometowns makes us who we are.. So, I thought this would be a cool way to tip my hat to the place that made me who I am”. Throughout the show, the “Good Girl” singer brought the album’s story to life by sharing pieces of Tullahoma, Tennessee with New York City.

This album release party was the perfect opportunity for Lynch to celebrate his 7th, Country Radio #1 hit, “Ridin’ Roads”, which is a very exciting feat in country music! He playfully revealed that this song was “inspired by an Instagram story of [his] buddy having a crazy time on his truck. 3 girls, him driving, they’re twerkin’ having a crazy time”. We enjoyed hearing about the authentic country inspiration behind this catchy hit.

Highlights of the set included a gorgeous, stripped-down rendition of “Cowboys and Angels”, a song that Lynch wrote his grandparent’s love story. Lynch’s emotive and powerful vocals tugged at our heartstrings, as we soaked in this special moment. Later in the show, the country star surprised the crowed by mashing up his previous infectious #1 song, “I’d Be Jealous Too” with Maroon 5’s classic song, “This Love”. The crowd went wild, loudly singing and dancing when Lynch segued into “This Love”. The audience loved watching this cross-genre experiment, showing Lynch’s ability to bring something unique and memorable to any show.

Throughout the show, Lynch played the perfect mix of new songs that fans are still getting to know and classic hits. Among the classic fan-favorites, Lynch performed “Small Town Boy”, “Seein’ Red”, and “Where It’s At”. From Tullahoma, other songs that he played live are “Momma’s House”, “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes”, and “Good Girl”.

Lynch’s energy and phenomenal vocals brought the house down for a release party that conveyed the greatness of the new album! We can’t wait to continue playing the new album, Tullahoma, on repeat.

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

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression Dustin Lynch ‘Tullahoma’

Dustin Lynch Tullahoma

Platinum-selling, singer-songwriter, Dustin Lynch released his fourth studio album, Tullahoma, today (Jan 17). Named after his hometown in Tennessee, the record contains eleven tracks, including the three off his Ridin’ Roads EP and his 2018 number one single “Good Girl.” Lynch co-wrote six of the songs, the most he has ever contributed to one of his albums. Old Dominion frontman, Matt Ramsey, Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley, the late busbee, and many more talented songwriters also contributed to this record.

“Tullahoma is the town that made me the man I am,” Lynch writes in the album biography. “So, as a songwriter now, I can’t help but go back and jump in my boots as a kid or a teenager in high school and write from that frame of mind.”

Being that this project is a homage to his hometown, it’s ironic that he’d sing about burning it to the ground in the first track, “Momma’s House.” Released on December 6th, Lynch sings about how an ex-girlfriend ruined the town he grew up in and how he’d “burn this whole town down if it wasn’t for my momma’s house.” Throughout the song, he recalls memories and specific spots in the town that now haunt him because of this breakup. Already getting radio airplay, we can expect this to be Lynch’s next single.

In the next track, “Dirt Road,” he paints a more positive picture of his hometown and growing up. He starts out by comparing it to Nashville, as the buildings are taller, the lights are brighter and the town is always buzzing. He admits he doesn’t always fit into that kind of life. “Yeah I’m just out here chasing these stars / Sometimes I swear I’m living on Mars / but I grew up on a dirt road.”

Lauren Alaina is becoming the go-to female singer to feature on male country artists’ songs nowadays. Alaina, already recording songs with Kane Brown, Rascal Flatts, Chris Young, Jon Pardi, and HARDY, joins Lynch on this third track, “Thinking Bout You.” She plays the role of an ex-girlfriend (probably not the same one in “Mommas House”) that calls him up one day. Coincidently, he’s been thinking about her a lot lately.

“Ridin’ Roads,” Lynch’s current single, hit number one the first week of the New Year, making it his seventh chart-topper. Co-written with songwriting geniuses Ashley Gorley and Zach Crowell, the song had a slow and steady climb to the top, as it was originally released back in March of 2019. Lynch presents his cool, laid back attitude in this track as he takes a ride with his girl down a windy back road in the country.

“Old Country Song” begins with a hip-hop beat, but as it progresses, the traditional country sound comes into play with instruments like the banjo and fiddle. He shows off his knowledge of old-school country with references to legends, such as George Jones and Johnny Cash. This is definitely the most traditional-sounding track on the album. “Ima love you like George Jones loved to drink, like Johnny loved some June.”

Lynch has some fun with word-play in songs like “Country Star” and “Workin’ On You.” In “Country Stars,” Lynch leaves the bar with a girl to go stargazing. “I’ll get you falling like a country star” he sings, cleverly relating to both the stars is the sky and the way fans fall for artists. “Workin’ On You” has a more upbeat, rock-n-roll sound as the lyrics depict a day that was spent working in the field, and once that work is done, the singer spends time with his girl.

The record closes with three previously released songs in “Little Town Living,” “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes” and “Good Girl.” “Little Town Living” is reminiscent of Jason Aldean’s “Dirt Road Anthem” as Lynch raps the verses.

“There wasn’t an intention to write an album inspired by my hometown,” he says of Tullahoma, “but there was an idea to aim at the character of who that small town boy is, and to write an album that that guy would like, that he would want to play in his truck and try to impress his girl with. Every single song had to check all those boxes or we just tossed it out. It was a very small bull’s-eye, but it was fun.”

Lynch will hit the road to headline his Stay Country Tour with special guest Travis Denning starting in Detroit on January 30th. A portion of each sale will benefit the Cowboys and Angels Fund supporting various philanthropic causes, including an intentional focus on children’s charities. For tickets, head to his website.

NYCountry Swag Picks:
1. Momma’s House
2. Thinking ‘Bout You
3. Old Country Song

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

Tullahoma is 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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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

New York’s Country 94.7’s Inaugural Stars and Strings Recap

New York's Countur 94.7

 

New York country fans are some of the most enthusiastic music fans out there, and if Stars and Strings in Brooklyn proved anything, it’s just that. Announced in early October was RADIO.COM, New York’s Country 94.7’s inaugural “Stars and Strings” event at Barclays Center, with a stacked bill featuring acts Sam Hunt, Dustin Lynch, Chris Janson, Blanco Brown, Runaway June, Gone West, and Matt Stell.

Stars and Strings Matt Stell

 

The place was already packed when Matt Stell opened the show. He performed his recent #1 “Prayed For You”, and the entire arena was lit up as he sang the tune. He also played his new single, “Everywhere But On”. Blanco Brown was next, and he got the crowd going with his danceable “The Git Up”, a song that’s all about having a good time, which is exactly what the night was intended to do. He had great energy, warming up the crowd so that when it was time for Dustin Lynch and Sam Hunt, they were ready.

Stars and Strings Blanco Brown

 

Third, was Gone West, Colbie Callait’s new country group. They blew the audience away with their stunning four-part harmonies, singing songs like “What Could’ve Been”, currently about to crack the top 30 on country radio, and the self-titled song “Gone West”. They also performed Callait’s hit “Brighter Than The Sun” which was a really fun surprise, and the audience sang back every word.

Stars and Strings Gone West

 

Rising stars Runaway June took the stage next, singing their hits “Buy My Own Drinks” and “Wild West”, as well as new jam “Head Over Heels”. They recently finished a tour with Carrie Underwood, where they played Madison Square Garden, and they recently broke a record previously held by SHeDAISY. “Their song went Top 5 on country radio, and it’s the first top 5 by a female trio for the first time in 15 years!” Radio host Jesse Addy told the crowd excitedly when introducing the band. “Everybody who requested this song, thank you, and sing along,” band-member Naomi Cooke yelled at the end of their set.

 

Stars and Strings Runaway June

 

Chris Janson was fourth, and he got the crowd moving with songs like “Buy Me a Boat” and “Good Vibes”, and it seemed like the entire arena was dancing. preparing them for the two remaining sets. He also covered Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”, which was very fitting, seeing as he was in the Big Apple playing to a sold-out crowd.

 

Stars and Strings Chris Janson

 

It was like a revolving door at Barclays Center – literally – the stage revolved for each act to make things go efficiently as possible and to get each act on stage when they’re supposed to. There was almost always someone performing; it was like a mini-music festival.

Dustin Lynch

 

Dustin Lynch was next, and he took the arena by a storm, opening with fiery song “Seein’ Red”. He performed a slew of hits from his first three albums, including songs like “Ridin’ Roads” and “Mind Reader”. But perhaps the most poignant moment of the night was when Lynch went into 2012 single “Cowboys & Angels”, a song written about his grandparents’ love story. “We gotta celebrate them being married 63 years this past week,” he told the audience, smiling. “This week, my granddad had major surgery… he’s in the hospital…” he stopped mid-sentence, choked up. “If you could sing this last chorus extra loud for him and me, that’d be great,” The audience sang as loud as they could, clearly moving Lynch, as he stepped back, wiping away tears. “You guys continue to change our lives because you believe in our music, and we love you for that. Thank you.” He ended his set with monster hit, “Small Town Boy”, to which the audience loved.

Sam Hunt Stars and Strings

The audience was abuzz waiting for Sam Hunt to take the stage, as it had been over two years since he last stepped foot in New York City. The roars from the audience when he took the stage, opening with “Leave The Night On” was absolutely deafening. During his opening song and “House Party”, he ran around the arena, trying to interact with as many fans as possible. He performed 8 songs off his debut album, Montevallo, including “Ex To See” and “Take Your Time”. One of the most special moments of the night was when Hunt sat down at the piano to perform his vulnerable song “Make You Miss Me”, completely stripped down. It was like you were back in the writer’s room with him.

“We traveled the country playing our music. Back then, we didn’t have any money. We were flying by the seat of our pants,” Hunt told the crowd before playing Billy Currington cut “We Are Tonight”. “I got a call and found out that [Currington] recorded our song and put it out as a radio single. I also put out the song on my mixtape. So thank you to Billy, wherever you are.”

Hunt also performed his new single, “Kinfolks” for one of the first times, and thanked country radio for supporting him and this song. He also played a yet-to-be-released song from his upcoming sophomore record “Sinning With You,” a guitar-driven ballad about the beginning of his relationship with his wife. To hear the unreleased track check out our post below.

 

Before he closed out the night with record-breaking “Body Like A Backroad”, Hunt performed “Break Up In A Small Town”, an intense song about how tight-knit small towns can really be, especially when you break up with someone. After he sang the bridge of the song, he sang, “Hannah Lee I’m on my way to you, I don’t know what I’mma say to you, but I know there ain’t no way we’re through”. The audience got quieter, knowing that he was about to go into the emotional track released right before he and his now-wife were engaged, aka “Drinkin’ Too Much”. He sang the chorus of the song acapella with just his band harmonizing, and it was one of the few times during his exciting set that people were quiet, listening to him sing the personal ballad.

 

Sam Hunt

 

It was a night filled with some of country music’s biggest stars, and there was a lot of love and gratitude in the room. It was clear that each artist felt incredibly grateful to be supported by country radio and country music fans. It was a celebration of the past year and a nice reminder that music can connect 19,000 strangers.

 

To keep up with Sam Hunt, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To stay up to date with Dustin Lynch, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Chris Janson, check him out on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To keep up with Runaway June, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To stay up to date with Gone West, make sure to follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Blanco Brown, check him out on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To follow Matt Stell, check him out on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

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Dustin Lynch Announces ‘Stay Country Tour’ & New Album, ‘Tullahoma’

Dustin Lynch Stay Country Tour and Album

Today is a big day for Dustin Lynch fans! Fresh off his opening gig for Thomas Rhett on the widely successful ‘VERY HOT SUMMER TOUR.,’ the platinum-selling recording artist is officially announcing his 2020 headlining tour and the release date for his new record Tullahoma.

 The new album is slated to come out on January 17th and will focus on all things small town. According to Lynch, “It’s all about [him] and growing up in [his] hometown,” adding, “every song on the album points to something that happened to me or my close friends and family and that’s really cool. I’m very proud of where I’m from, and proud of this record because it will hopefully make my hometown a little more famous than it already is.”

Lynch’s Ridin’ Roads EP, including songs “Ridin’ Roads,” “Little Town Livin’” and “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes,” as well as his charted single, “Good Girl” will all be featured on the new project, as they all fit the hometown, country boy vibe that the Grand Ole Opry member is after. This is sure to be Lynch’s most personal project to date.

Soon after the album premiere, Lynch will share the stage with country newcomer, Travis Dennis on his headlining ‘STAY COUNTRY TOUR 2020.’ The tour kicks off at The Filmore in Detroit, Michigan on January 30th, giving fans just enough time to learn the words to all the new music. Lynch and Denning will be on the road together through March, hitting fifteen different venues across the United States. There is not yet a New York City date, but keep an eye on our calendar for any additional dates!

Tickets go on sale Friday, November 15th at 10:00 am. local time and a portion of each sale will benefit Lynch’s ‘The Cowboys and Angels Funds,’ which supports a multitude of children’s charities. Head to dustinlynchmusic.com for tickets and more information.

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

DUSTIN LYNCH’S STAY COUNTRY TOUR 2020 announced dates:
January 30 – Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore+
January 31 – Troy, OH @ Hobart Arena+
February 1 – Athens, OH @ Memorial Auditorium+
February 7 – Norman, OK @ Riverwind Casino+
February 8 – San Antonio, TX @ San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo*
February 13 – Madison, WI @ The Sylvee+
February 14 – Kansas City, MO @ Arvest Bank Theatre at The Midland+^
February 15 – Prior Lake, MN @ Mystic Lake Casino+*
February 28 – Bensalem, PA @ Parx Casino+^
February 29 – Verona, NY @ Turning Stone Resort Casino+
March 1 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues+
March 13 – Reno, NV @ Silver Legacy Resort Casino+
March 14 – Bakersfield, CA @ Rabobank Theatre+
March 27 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE+
March 28 – Mt. Pleasant, MI @ Soaring Eagle Casino++with Travis Denning
^on-sale date is November 22
*on-sale now

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

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New York’s Country 94.7 Announces Stacked Line-Up for Inaugural ‘Stars And Strings’

On Friday (Oct 11), local country radio station, New York’s Country 94.7 introduced a brand new event for New York Country fans, “Stars And Strings”. Teasing the event all weekend long with on-air announcements and several posts across social media, the beloved radio station left the line-up up to imagination, leaving fans guessing who could be filling the seemingly seven spots on the show.

At precisely 7:10AM this morning (Oct. 14), country radio personalities Kelly Ford and Jesse Addy broke the highly anticipated news. The December event will include music from rising artists Matt Stell, Gone West, Runaway June, and Blanco Brown. Additionally, Chris Janson and Dustin Lynch will take the stage and finally, country music superstar Sam Hunt will headline the show. The show marks Sam Hunt’s first stop in New York City in over two years with his last NYC show being his sold out show at Madison Square Garden back in September 2017.

The event takes place on December 4th at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. Tickets will go on sale on Friday, October 18th. Grab your tickers here and for more information, visit: newyorkscountry947.radio.com.

Be sure to sign-up for our Weekly Round-Up here so you don’t miss any ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events and more!

To keep up with New York’s Country 94.7 follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

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Thomas Rhett & His ‘VHS’ Tour Give Fans an Unforgettable Night at MSG

Thomas Rhett MSG VHS Tour

It was truly an unforgettable night at Madison Square Garden as Thomas Rhett brought his Very Hot Summer (VHS) tour to a sold-out “The World’s Most Famous Arena.” With him were special guests Russell Dickerson, Dustin Lynch and his father, Rhett Akins, to support his funk-infused country show that left the New York City fans in awe.

Rhett Akins led off with two songs he wrote for other artists: Jon Pardi’s “Dirt on My Boots” and Blake Shelton’s “Boys ‘Round Here.” He mentioned how cool it was to be opening for his son, playing at this iconic arena again. He played two original songs in “Don’t Get Me Started” and “That Ain’t My Truck.” Putting things in perspective, Akins said he wrote: “That Ain’t My Truck” when his son was only four years old.

Back in 2016, just weeks after NYCountry Swag officially launched, we hosted Russell Dickerson during our very first event at Libation NYC. To say we believed in him and his talent is a vast understatement, and we just knew that one day we would be celebrating his Madison Square Garden debut. Watching him perform for that many fans, hearing them sing back his words was emotional for our entire team. He played five songs from his latest album, Yours including the title track, “Billions,” “Blue Tacoma,” his current single “Every Little Thing” and “MGNO” (My Girl’s Night Out) that he blended with Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” Dickerson got emotional after performing “Blue Tacoma” as he recalled playing for our company in a small bar to now playing Madison Square Garden in the heart of New York City.

 

“I remember sitting on top of a barstool, sitting on a box, (for) a little thing called NYCountry Swag (playing with) a microphone duct-taped to a mic stand with about twenty-five people there. The fact that all y’all packed in tonight…thank you, thank you.” MSG turned into a rave scene during “MGNO” as the fans were dancing and cheering the singer-songwriter on as he jumped and ran all over the stage. The Tennessee native hyped up the NYC fans as they got ready for the next act, Dustin Lynch.

Lynch started with the lead single from his third studio album, Current Mood, “Seein’ Red” then followed it with three songs from his second album Where It’s At, including the title track, “Hell Of a Night” and “Mind Reader.” During his performance of “I’d Be Jealous Too,” Lynch sat in the middle of the stretched out catwalk signing autographs, taking selfies and singing into fans’ cell phones. Lynch then went all the way back to his first single, “Cowboys and Angels,” a song in which he wrote as a dedication to the love his grandparents shared.

 

Lynch took a lot of time to talk to the crowd about his journey from being a kid listening to country music all the way to opening for Thomas Rhett at Madison Square Garden. His biggest influences growing up were George Strait and Garth Brooks, along with Batman and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, of course. He covered bits of four songs in between each portion of the story: “Chattahoochee” by Alan Jackson, “Something Like That” by Tim McGraw, “What Was I Thinkin’” by Dierks Bentley and “Love Somebody Like You” by Keith Urban. Lynch has a special relationship with both Urban and Bentley. Dierks told Dustin to knock on every door and take every chance you can get if you want to be a successful artist. Those words stuck with him to this very day.  “If you guys take anything away from my show tonight, I want you to take this away: If you have a dream and you really believe in yourself…do not take ‘no’ for an answer, from anybody,”  he emoted. “We’re here living the dream tonight because we did that.” Lynch will join Dierks Bentley for a special show at Michie Stadium in West Point, NY, home of the Army Black Knights on October 18th.

The singer-songwriter recalled receiving a phone call back in 2012 from a number he did not recognize. He picked up anyway and it was Keith Urban on the other line asking him to join him on his Light The Fuse Tour with Little Big Town. That was the first time Lynch and his band played this historic arena. Lynch closed his set with his most recent single, “Ridin’ Roads” and two number ones in “Good Girl” and “Small Town Boy.” Lynch tipped his cowboy hat as he exited the stage as fans got ready for their headliner, Thomas Rhett.

 

Rhett literally jumped out of the stage (yes, he was inside the stage) and began singing his most recent number one hit, “Look What God Gave Her” from his most recent album Center Point Road. He kept the energy going with three more upbeat songs, one from each of his first three albums; “Crash And Burn” from Tangled, “Get Me Some of That” – It Goes Like This and “Craving You” – Life Changes.

At the end of Rhett’s performance of “Notice,” the crowd went silent as the 2019 ACM Male Artist of the Year played one more acoustic chorus of the song. The fans responded with loud applause. After “Sixteen,”  One of Rhett’s powerhouse backup vocalists joined him on stage to take Little Big Town’s spot in the R&B-influenced track off the new album, “Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time.” He then followed that with a speech before playing his current single “Remember You Young.” Rhett got choked up on stage reminiscing about how he got here. Back in 2013 he opened for Jason Aldean at MSG and only got twenty minutes on stage. Flash-forward six years later he is headlining a sold-out show at the same venue. Fans lit up the crowd with their flashlights during this very sentimental song.

Rhett went a different route with his performance of “Make Me Wanna” as he jazzed up the traditional-sounding country song by heavily adding the six-piece band that was behind him. Rhett also threw in a verse from Justin Timberlake’s “Suit & Tie” in the middle of his number one song. After performing his most personal song, “Life Changes,” the 29-year-old played three stripped-down songs, including “Star of the Show,” “That Old Truck” and an unreleased song titled “To The Guys Who Date My Girls.” Although it’s a slow, heartfelt tune, Rhett throws some humor in there with the line “When you pull her close, make sure you leave some room for Jesus. If you cross that line, I swear boy, you’re gonna meet him.”  You can listen to the song below.

Next, he mentioned before performing “Beer Can’t Fix” that Jon Pardi, the country artist who is featured on the studio recording was not in attendance, so he was going to need some help. When Pardi’s verse came up, Lynch and Dickerson returned to the stage sporting New York Knicks jerseys to continue the song. Then Rhett Akins ran up the long catwalk with a cooler and then distributed cans of Bud Light to the guys on stage.

Rhett stretched out “Vacation” and handed the mic over to the DJ to introduce the band behind the country super-star. Each of them got a solo on their respected instrument and when it was time for Rhett’s shout-out, he dazzled the crowd with an incredible drum solo.

He couldn’t leave the stage before performing his last two slow songs of the night in “Marry Me” and “Die a Happy Man.” Rhett let the audience sing the final chorus of “Die a Happy Man” which gave us, and probably a majority of the fans, major chills. “If Madison Square Garden in New York City is the last show I ever get to play…I could die, a happy man,” he sung as the final lyrics to his number one hit song.

 

Rhett ended this spectacular show with “Unforgettable” and “T-shirt”. For the finale of “Unforgettable”, Rhett ran across the stage as rainbow-colored confetti rained down onto the fans. Words cannot describe the energy of the crowd the entire 90-plus minute show. A historic night at Madison Square Garden for the artists and the fans alike. For exclusive clips from the show, head to our Instagram Stories highlight.

Although this week marks the beginning of fall, Rhett and his supporting cast will extend summer until October 12th where they will close the tour at the one and only Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

To keep up with Thomas Rhett, follow him on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

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

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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

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Dustin Lynch Lyrics To Use As Instagram Captions

Superstar Dustin Lynch is celebrating his most recent hit and number one song with “Ridin’ Roads”. We’ve put together some of Lynch’s best lyrics to go along with your photos and Instagram captions to commemorate what is sure to be “One Hell of A Night” if you catch him live this year.

Dustin Lynch

Photo Credit: Daniel Vorlet

1. “I’m a sucker for your kiss, wanna steal ‘em from your lips baby like a crook.” – Hell of A Night

2. “When I get ya climbin’ up in the cab of this truck, yeah ya know it’s on.” – Hell of A Night

3. “I kinda give a damn, I kinda don’t care.” – Small Town Boy

4. “She’s my ride or die, baby, she’s my cool, she’s my crazy.” – Small Town Boy

5. “You shine and I just can’t wait to get you out tonight.” – Seein’ Red

6. “I’m lovin’ just livin’ every minute since you came around. I was lost in the neon lights till the day that you called me yours.” – Good Girl

7. “A girl like that’s what a country boy’s after. She cranks, she cranks, she cranks my tractor.” – She Cranks My Tractor

8. “I’ve got boots and she’s got wings. I’m hell on wheels and she’s heavenly.” – Cowboys and Angels

9. “The way it’s going tonight you probably know I’m ready to fall.” – Mind Reader

10. “Whatever you got to raise up, you can’t get it high enough.” – To the Sky

11. “Gonna dance you in the midnight sky and kiss you ’bout a thousand times.” -Red Dirt, Blue Eyes

12. “I’m lovin’ nothin’ to do with you, baby. Just ridin’ roads on a night like this.” Ridin’ Roads

13. “We’re just little town livin’ it up tonight.” -Little Town Livin’

14. “Everything about you girl is just my style. You got some wild in your smile.” -Wild in Your Smile

15. “Dressed up, her hair down, in a ball cap. Yep yep, as long as I get that.” -Where It’s At

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression Dustin Lynch ‘Ridin’ Roads EP

Dustin Lynch EP

Country music heartthrob Dustin Lynch is back with new music and has released an EP with three new tracks, including his newest single “Ridin’ Roads”.  Lynch is no stranger to being atop the country music charts, as he has six number ones to date with his latest hit being “Good Girl.” Fans have been eager for the singer-songwriter to release new music and no one will be disappointed after listening to the three featured songs: “Ridin’ Roads”, “Little Town Livin”, and “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes”. He keeps up with his down-home, feel good, edgy back road country style that everyone loves.

Lynch’s new single “Ridin’ Roads” is a slow and steady depiction of ditching a standard nightclub or bar and escaping to the countryside with that special someone. Lynch sings, “Ridin’ roads that don’t nobody go down, a little trip through the countryside, these 38’s making the world go round, I hit a curb just to make you slide,” and perfectly describes the desire and admiration you feel while lost down a secluded country road.

Forget all of your worries with the second track “Little Town Livin'” as Lynch sings about a perfect night out in a small town. He starts off the verse talking/rapping and then sings the chorus ” We’re just little town livin’, where the sun goes down, we’re gonna ride, turnin’ dirt into dust, yeah that’s a ticket, we’re just little town livin’ it up.” It is nothing but good times in Lynch’s eyes as he continues with “Twist it off, turn it up, pass it around, no other place id rather be right now,” he makes us all feel like we are “Little Town Livin'” it up in a small town with him. This slower tempo, r&b infused track shows a new side to the Grand Ole Opry member who continues to explore different techniques and sounds.

The third track “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes” is a mid-tempo song about a getaway trip with a girl alongside him; a time where they dust off a bottle by the river and unwind. Lynch sings, “Gotta get you on some red dirt, get lost in your blue eyes, I want to see a little suntan, lit up in the moonlight, gonna dance you in the midnight sky, kiss you bout’ a thousand times,” and there is nothing more romantic than that.

The three tracks off of Lynch’s EP will remind you of old fashion romantic nights spending it with the one you love and making the most out of life with friends in a small town however he is continuously showcasing what a talented singer-songwriter he is by sonically branching out into new directions. Not to mention, he is also an incredible performer.

Lynch is currently on tour with Thomas Rhett for his “Very Hot Summer” tour now through October. Be sure to check out the dates here: dustinlynchmusic.com and New Yorkers, grab your tickets when the tour rolls through town at Madison Square Garden on September 20th. 

Lynch’s new music 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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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
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