Here are all of HARDY’s number one songs at country radio (and rock radio) in his music catalog. The singer-songwriter has several number ones to his name as an artist.
HARDY // Photo credit: Ryan Smith
We love reminiscing about all the great country music to hit country radio over the last few years. In our brand new series, we’re looking back on the songs that made it to the top of the country airplay charts. Today, we’re highlighting songs in HARDY’s career that hit the number one spot as an artist.
“One Beer” ft. Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson – Mixtape, Vol 1., 2020
In 2020, HARDY was one of the hottest artists in country music. His single, “One Beer” featuring fellow artists, Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson took over the country airwaves, landing the singer-songwriter his first number one as an artist – cementing him as a mainstay in country music for years to come.
“wait in the truck” with Lainey Wilson – The Mockingbird and the Crow, 2023
HARDY’s killer collaboration with Lainey Wilson, “wait in the truck” earned both the artists their second number ones at country radio. The song is truly one of the best in HARDY’s catalog, and its record, The Mockingbird and the Crow remains an incredible album for the singer-songwriter.
“JACK”- The Mockingbird and the Crow, 2023
Genre-bending pro, HARDY made his rock radio debut with “JACK,” earning his first officially number one over at rock radio with the single. While this song may have not made its way to the country airwaves, it’s proof that HARDY’s talent knows no bounds.
“TRUCK BED”- The Mockingbird and the Crow, 2024
“TRUCK BED,” off of the singer’s sophomore record, the mockingbird & THE CROW was a standout from day one. The song samples a lyric from HARDY’s fan-favorite song, “BOOTS,” and speaks to the singer’s talent as both a rockstar and a country music mainstay.
“Favorite Country Song”- COUNTRY! COUNTRY!, 2026
As the lead single off HARDY’s record, Country! Country!, “Favorite Country Song” marks the singer-songwriter’s return to country music, after creatively embracing the rock side of his talent over the last couple of years. The song is a true ode to classic country songs, focusing on the relatable lyrics, and the true story-telling that the genre is the best at. It is no wonder the song finally found its way to the number one spot at country radio.
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HARDY also earned three number ones on Billboard’s U.S. Hard Rock charts with his songs, “Sold Out”, “Rockstar”, and “Psycho” – all songs a part of HARDY”s rock journey. He also earned a number one as a featured artist on Dierks Bentley’s song, “Beers on Me” featuring Breland.
Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future HARDY announcements and releases.
All of these HARDY hits and more 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/HARDY_credit-Ryan-Smith.jpg54648192Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2026-02-22 17:37:162026-03-06 18:13:56Here Are All of HARDY’s Number One Songs in His Catalog
HARDY, Eric Church, Morgan Wallen, and Tim McGraw share their collaborative brand new song, “McArthur,” out now on all streaming platforms. Get all the details and listen below.
In what might be the most star-studded collaboration of the decade, HARDY enlists his superstar friends, Eric Church, Morgan Wallen, and Tim McGraw to record and release a brand new song. “McArthur” is officially out today, and all we can say is, WOW.
After cryptic teasing this week by the singers, fans were spiraling, trying to figure out exactly what they had up their sleeve. While we don’t know yet if “McArthur” is the first of many songs to come or a single off HARDY’s next project, it is safe to say that the star-studded collab is spectacular.
“I’m Hunter McArthur and the deal looks good // In eighteen months this’ll be a neighborhood // I got a million dollar line I can sign my name on // But there’s a whisper in the pines that’s tellin’ me don’t // Sayin’ my bloodline it bled on this ground // Soon we all find that’s where we’re bound // And Father Time don’t leave anyone out // And when you pass on, what you gonna pass down”
Told through four generations of the “McArthur” family, HARDY, Church, Wallen, and McGraw all play a member of the family over decades. Each character (John, Jones, Junior, and Hunter) reflects a different generation, era of country music, and trials. The song is a true story-telling song that embodies exactly what country music and now modern country-music is all about.
While we don’t know yet if this is the start of a supergroup in country music, it’s safe to say that fans of country music are going to resonate with “McArthur.”
HARDY, Eric Church, Morgan Wallen, and Tim McGraw share their brand new song, “McArthur.”
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future releases.
“McArthur” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/hardy-mcarthur.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2026-01-30 01:48:372026-01-30 01:48:37HARDY, Eric Church, Morgan Wallen & Tim McGraw Join Forces on “McArthur”
HARDY goes number one at country radio this week with his song, “Favorite Country Song.” Learn all the details here and listen to the song below!
HARDY is an absolute superstar in every sense of the word. He has earned many number one singles at country radio as a writer, and now the singer-songwriter is adding a fouth number one to the mix as a solo artist, not including his two number ones at Rock radio. This week, HARDY’s song, “Favorite Country Song” officially hit the top spot on the country charts.
As the lead single off HARDY’s record, Country! Country!, “Favorite Country Song” marks the singer-songwriter’s return to country music, after creatively embracing the rock side of his talent over the last couple of years. The song is a true ode to classic country songs, focusing on the relatable lyrics, and the true story-telling that the genre is the best at. It is no wonder the song finally found its way to the number one spot at country radio.
“Yeah, they might’ve lit a flame under these old boots // But they sure don’t hold no candle to // A north wind blowin’ through a patch of pines // Whippoorwills singin’ ’bout summertime // Raindrops drummin’ on rusted tin // Flathead draggin’ out 20 pound Stren // Oh-whoa, strike up the fire, somebody cue the crickets in the creek bank choir // Gotta get back ’cause it’s been too long // That’s my favorite country song”
Congratulations to HARDY and his team on landing another number one song at country radio! HARDY’s talent truly knows no limits, and we are here for anything HARDY puts out, country or otherwise.
Join our Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming HARDY announcements and releases.
“Favorite Country Song” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/HARDY_credit-Ryan-Smith.jpg54648192Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2026-01-26 13:58:072026-01-26 13:58:07HARDY Tops the Country Radio Charts with “Favorite Country Song”
Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.
“Come On Over, Baby” – Ty Myers
Ty Myers brings his one-of-a-kind talent and charm to his latest release, “Come On Over, Baby.”
“I Got A Feeling” – Benny G
Benny G is one to look out for. His brand new song, “I Got A Feeling” is one that truly stopped us in our tracks.
HARDY’s return to country music is even sweeter than we thought. Tis title track and every other song on the record feels like an elevated version of the old-school HARDY that we know and love.
“Hard To Break” – Blake Whiten
Blake Whiten adds to growing catalog of songs with “Hard To Break.”
Lily Rose’s debut album is officially here, and the title track, I Know What I Want sets the tone for the awesome record.
“Get Ya’ Back” – Erin Kinsey
Erin Kinsey continues to release her best music to date, adding new song, “Get Ya’ Back” to the mix.
“Jessica, Jezebel” – Meghan Patrick
Meghan Patrick grows her music catalog with catchy new song, “Jessica, Jezebel.”
“I’ll Take You” – Ben Gallaher
Ben Gallaher stuns on brand new song, “I’ll Take You,” which is a part of his brand new album, Time, also out today.
“Heartland” – The Castellows
The Castellows continue to show off their charisma and charm, releasing their latest song, “Heartland.”
“Old Fashioned” – KC Bruner
Rising artist KC Bruner releases her newest song, “Old Fashioned.”
“Calling All Cars” – The Droptines
The Droptines draw on early 2000s rock influences on infectious new song, “Calling All Cars.”
“Girl Of Constant Sorry” – Avery Anna
Avery Anna continues to carve her own path in the genre, releasing her stunning version of the song, “Girl Of Constant Sorry.”
“Better Man Than Me” – Marshmello x Hudson Westbrook
Hudson Westbrook and Marshmello join forces on “Better Man Than Me.”
“On & On” – Marcus King/The Marcus King Band
Marcus King brings fan another great song with, “On & On.”
“1800 Miles” – Colter Wall
Rising artist Colter Wall adds to his catalog of music with new song, “1800 Miles.”
“Down the Road” – Tiera Kennedy
Tiera Kennedy continues to impress, releasing her newest song to date, “Down the Road,” out now.
Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.
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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/New-Music-Friday-Blog-Cover.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2025-09-26 01:50:072025-09-26 01:50:07Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (9/26)
HARDY’s new album, COUNTRY! COUNTRY! is out now, September 26th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.
For HARDY, country music has always been a focal point. And while the megatalented singer-songwriter has experimented with other sounds, most notably on 2024’s rock-laden QUIT!, he’s going back to his roots. On COUNTRY! COUNTRY!, out now, HARDY mixes traditional country instrumentation with sharp, clever lyricism for a record that feels authentically his.
“I just missed it,” HARDY reveals in a statement. “I missed my community. My peers. Plus, I love country music. I moved to town to write country songs. Going 10 years of writing 100+ songs a year, it was a nice palette cleanser to take a step away from that. Now I’m back. I’m fresh and ready to get right back into it.”
Produced by longtime collaborator Joey Moi, the twenty-track album covers everything from love and loss to dogs and hometown pride. From the opening chords of the title track to the reflective closer “Everybody Does,” HARDY invites listeners on a journey through all things country.
While the album still includes the raspy growl and driving guitars that were prevalent on QUIT!, there’s a more authentic country twang present here. “Favorite Country Song” is an immediate standout, an homage to the country songs that raised him. Namedropping everything from “Summertime” to “My Maria” to “Country Boy Can Survive” to “Sinners Like Me,” it’s evident that HARDY’s inspirations are as vast and diverse as his own catalogue.
On “Bro Country,” he nods to his past and the current state of the genre, the lyrics reading like a letter to the long lost art of the ‘bro country’ subgenre. “Some of y’all may not know this, but I started my career in Nashville as a songwriter, writing for my buddies like FGL, Morgan Wallen, Cole Swindell, Chris Lane, etc.” He says. “I know my way around a bro country song and I owe a lot to that era. But the vibe in country music has shifted lately, and I wrote a song about it.”
On songs like “I’d Go Crazy,” “Luckiest Man Alive” and “Girl with a Gun,” HARDY flexes his skills as a songwriter, embracing the simple things in life on “Luckiest” and promising eternal fidelity on “Girl.”
“Car That Drove You Away” offers another clever lyric, and is the only song he’s ever put on an album that he didn’t write. “I knew that I couldn’t beat it,” HARDY shares, “I knew when I heard it that it was one of the best songs I’ve heard in a long time and there’s nothing on this record that could compete with that.”
Elsewhere, HARDY spends a lot of time reflecting on life and family throughout the record. “Bottomland” shows a stripped and vulnerable man, while “Country in Me” and “Buck on the Wall” reflect on his upbringing. “Take the Country and Run” finds him choosing small-town life over wealth, and “Gun to My Head” turns into a euphoric declaration of country pride.
Among the album’s most powerful moments are “Dog Years,” told from a dog’s perspective, and “Goodbye,” where HARDY grapples with the inevitability of losing the person he loves most. Both show his rare ability to balance vulnerability with grit.
Fans of HARDY’s more rowdy side are also in for a treat. “Keep It Country” and “Who Don’t” are tailor-made for the stage, redneck anthems that bring twang and fire in equal measure.
“Bedrooms in the Sky” is another highlight, pairing HARDY with Stephen Wilson Jr. With incredible guitar work and finger-picking, the pair harmonize on the celebration of country music.
“Where somebody’s gonna learn how to hunt // Somebody’s gonna learn how to fish // Somebody’s gonna pray for rain, then raise some grain// To feed a couple barefoot kids// You can build your bedrooms in the sky // You can swallow up my little town // But when the shit hits the fan //And the world’s just land // Country’s gonna come back around”
“Y’all Need Jesus” offers a moment of levity as HARDY snaps back at those who mock him online, musing “Y’all need Jesus and a Willie Nelson song, Ride that high horse somewhere you can leave my country ass alone, Y’all keep throwin’ stones, I’m gonna keep on droppin’ deer Y’all need Jesus and I need a beer.”
The LP ends with “We’re All Gonna Die” and “Everybody Does,” both of which have him speaking the hard truth that no one is immortal. On the former, he encourages listeners to seize the day, while on the latter, he reflects on the fact that, despite all our differences, we’re all eventually going to leave this world.
With COUNTRY! COUNTRY!, HARDY returns to the sound that started it all. It’s raw, reflective, rowdy, and rooted in his Mississippi upbringing. It’s a collection that only he could make, and it’s full of contenders for your future “Favorite Country Song.”
Country Swag Picks:
Favorite Country Song
Bro Country
Bedroom in the Sky
Car That Drove You Away
Country Country
COUNTRY! COUNTRY! Track List:
Country Country
Favorite Country Song
Bro Country with ERNEST
Luckiest Man Alive
Car That Drove You Away
Girl With A Gun
Buck On The Wall
I’d Go Crazy Too
Take The Country And Run
Goodbye
Bedrooms In The Sky with. Stephen Wilson Jr.
Bottomland
Who Don’t
Country In Me
Gun To My Head
Keep It Country
Y’all Need Jesus
Dog Years
We’re All Gonna Die
Everybody Does
HARDY shares new album, ‘COUNTRY! COUNTRY!,’ 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 HARDY releases.
COUNTRY! COUNTRY! is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/HARDY_credit-Ryan-Smith.jpg54648192Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2025-09-26 00:18:022025-09-26 00:18:02HARDY ‘COUNTRY! COUNTRY!’ – Album Review
Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.
“Let The Lonely” – Kameron Marlowe
Kameron Marlowe continues to release his best music to date, adding, “Let The Lonely” to his growing catalog.
In conjunction with the release date for his debut album, Vincent Mason is sharing his new song, “Days Are Numbered.”
“Born In A Burning House” – Chase McDaniel
In his stunning debut album Lost Ones, Chase McDaniel shares his life stories. “Born In A Burning House,” one of the songs off the record is one of our absolute favorites.
“Slippery Slope” – Lauren Watkins ft. John Morgan
In a stunning pairing, Lauren Watkins and John Morgan show off their talents on new song, “Slippery Slope.”
“The Bridge” – Payton Smith
In his new album, The Bridge, Payton Smith drops ten new songs, including the catchy title track.
On their debut EP, Staring Over, the duo shows off their incredible talent and songwriting. “Happy Ever After” is the song that started it all.
“Head Spinning” – Coleman Jennings
Austin-based singer-songwriter Coleman Jennings will make his label debut with “Head Spinning.”
“Dog Years” – HARDY
In an incredible solo-write, HARDY proves why he’s one of the best modern songwriters in country music with his new song, “Dog Years.”
“20 Bucks” – Colin Stough
In his new song, “20 Bucks,” Colin Stough shows his grit and ability to create an absolute ear-worm of a song.
“Measure” – Corey Kent & Max McNown
“Measure” is a stunning story-telling song about the real riches in life. Both Corey Kent and Max McNown together made for an incredible song.
“Hardwood Floor (string session)” – Morgan Wade
Morgan Wade adds to her growing catalog of songs with, “Hardwood Floor (string session).”
“Broken Man” – Eddie And The Getaway
On his brand new EP, TUMBLEWEEDS & NICOTINE, Eddie And The Getaway show off their unique talent and musical arrangements. “Broken Man” is great example of that.
“Brake Lights” – Chris Young
Chris Young continues to embark on a new era of music, dropping his new song, “Brake Lights.”
Josh Ross’ debut album is officially here featuring new songs, like the title track.
“Everything I Wanted” – Evan Honer
Evan Honor’s third studio album Everything I Wanted is officially out now featuring a ton of new music including the title track.
“Little Birds” – Elizabeth Nichols
Making waves with her latest single, “Little Birds,” Elizabeth Nichols is showing no signs of slowing down.
“Tumbleweed” – Drake Milligan
Drake Milligan grows his catalog of songs with his new single, “Tumbleweed.”
“The One” – Georgia Webster
Independent artist, Georgia Webster shows off his singer-songwriting talent on new song, “The One.”
“Every Piece” – Hunter Hayes
Hunter Hayes continues to have a resurgence with his new song, “Every Piece.”
Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.
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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/New-Music-Friday-Blog-Cover.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2025-09-19 00:16:442025-09-19 00:16:44Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (9/19)
Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.
“Bottomland” – HARDY
HARDY is officially back and in a big way! His new song, “Bottomland” released today with the news that the singer-songwriter’s next project, Country! Country! will be out this September. Stay tuned, and make sure to listen to “Bottomland.” It’s one of HARDY’s recent best songs to date!
Russell Dickerson can truly do no wrong! As fans gear up for his brand new album, RD is giving another peak inside the album with a high-energy jam called, “Worth Your Wild,” out today.
“Lost Time” – Tyler Rich
Since stepping out as an independent artist, Tyler Rich has released some of his best music to date. Today, the singer-songwriter shares his newest song, “LOST TIME.”
Maybe one of the more highly-anticipated project of the year, Sam Barber’s brand new EP, Music for the Soul is officially out today! Listen to all the songs including the title track!
Songstress and true artist, Zandi Holup is sharing her meticulously crafted debut album, Wildflower, out today. It’s a true work of art that every music fan should give a listen to.
“The Easy Part” – Gabby Barrett
Gabby Barrett pours her heart out on the introspective and honest new song, “The Easy Part,” out today!
“Family Tree” – Austin Snell
Austin Snell gets ready to release his brand new EP. Today, the title track, “Family Tree” is officailly out!
“I Didn’t Come Here To Leave” – Chris Young
Earlier this week, Chris Young released his brand new song, “I Didn’t Come Here To Leave.” Make sure to add it to your playlist.
“Strawberry Thief” – Kolton Moore & The Clever Few
Kolton Moore & The Clever Few celebrate fatherhood with their brand new song, “Strawberry Thief.” Honest and emotional, the song is truly a great track.
“Chevy Silverado” – Bailey Zimmerman
Bailey Zimmerman continues to ready fans for his next album. “Chevy Silverado” is another taste of what’s to come!
“Why Don’t You Love Me?” – Red Clark
Red Clark impresses with his brand new song, “Why Don’t You Me?” out today, on all streaming platforms.
“Don’t Leave (Jolene Remix)” – Chase Matthew
Chase Matthew gives a unique flair to the iconic song, “Jolene.” His rendition, “Don’t Leave (Jolene Remix)” is out today.
“Real One” – Jon Langston
Jon Langston adds to his impressive catalog with a brand new song called, “Real One.” Make sure to listen!
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” – Toby Keith, VAVO remix
Country EDM is still alive and well! VAVO pays tribute to Toby Keith’s iconic song, ‘Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” Listen to the insanely good mix ASPA!
“God Story” – Anne Wilson
Anne Wilson releases her brand new song project, including the introspective and honest title track, “God Story.”
“Thankful” – Paul Cauthen
Paul Cauthen continues to build his musical library with his brand new song. “Thankful.” Make sure to listen to the new song!
“The Thing About Us” – Kaylee Bell
New Zealand, singer-songwriter, Kaylee Bell adds to his growing catalog with her new song, “The Thing About Us,” out now.
Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.
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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/New-Music-Friday-Blog-Cover.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2025-08-01 00:19:202025-08-01 00:19:20Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (8/1)
Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.
“Favorite Country Song” – HARDY
HARDY releases two new songs today, including this fan-favorite, “Favorite Country Song.”
“Dreams Don’t Die” – Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll’s song on the hit hit show Fire Country is officially out now.
Kolby Cooper shares his newest EP, Love You, Goodnight featuring 14 new songs including, “Running Away.”
Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.
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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/New-Music-Friday-Blog-Cover.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2025-04-11 01:00:592025-04-11 01:00:59Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week
HARDY’s new album, Quit!! is out now, July 12th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.
While HARDY has always expertly toed the line between country and rock music, his new album, QUIT!!, out now, is his first full foray into rock. There isn’t much twang or pedal and steel here, the singer-songwriter trading those for heavier guitar riffs, metal screams, and Fred Durst.
Produced by Joey Moi, the Big Loud Records/ Big Loud Rock LP positions HARDY quite differently than his previous offerings. On QUIT!!, he’s no longer a country singer dabbling in rock, but a rock singer who got his start in country. From the spoken word nature of the title track to the driving guitars and screaming choruses of “Psycho,” the album takes listeners on a new and sometimes unexpected ride.
The LA Times previously called HARDY “Nashville’s nü-metal king,” and this thirteen track collection allows him to claim that throne. It’s the follow up to 2023’s The Mockingbird & THE CROW, which featured the mega-hit, “Wait In the Truck,” and still found the singer-songwriter dabbling in both genres. At the time of that release, he told American Songwriter, “There’s always a struggle between do I do the full-on rock thing, or do I keep writing country songs and do the country thing?”
On QUIT!!, he’s doing the “full-on rock thing,” kicking the album off with the Eminem-meets-Linkin-Park-esque title track, which details his journey through the music industry, rising above adversity with a heavy and grinding chorus. “Somebody wrote ‘quit!!’ on a napkin, I took it outta my tip jar laughing,” He proclaims. “Like damn what an a**hole, Man I’m just a flat broke boy with a guitar asking for anybody to pay attention.”
“Rockstar” is an immediate ear worm, laced with tints of early-2000’s pop-punk as he muses about all of the songs with similar themes, musing over the winding path of his career. “Started out with rifles, trucks and huntin’ season,” He sings, tongue-in-cheek. “Now, I got my middle finger up like a kid again.”
“Everybody’s got a song called, “Rockstar” // Runnin’ up the pop charts, talkin’ all the shit they do // I been Houdini with my commas, pissin’ off my momma, gettin’ all these new tattoos // And I ain’t sayin’ that I’m Nickelback, kickin’ it in Cali with today’s who’s-who // Everybody’s got a song called, “Rockstar” // Lately, I been feelin’ like one, so I wrote one too”
“Good Girl Phase” and “PSYCHO” are HARDY at his absolute best, combining clever hooks with unique lyrics. The latter is endlessly catchy and features the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith on the tune about a “bad, bad girl” who is “just going through a good girl phase.” Meanwhile, “Psycho” is a dark promise of what may happen when a relationship ends, the facade dropping and the good guy turning crazy.
“I pray you never go, there’s something you should know // I hope you stay forever ’cause If you ever leave me, // girl, I’ll get a face tattoo // Steal a truck, end up on the six o’clock news // If you say goodbye, hell, I’ll dye my hair // Crash your birthday party in my underwear // Hey, I hope you never have to see the day // But if you ever walk away, well // Everybody you know, everybody I know’s // Gonna know you fell in love with a psycho”
Similarly, the previously-released “Jim Bob” is the album’s heaviest track, embracing the sounds of fiery electronic rock as he tells the tale of a man with some demons in his life. “We all know a Jim Bob,” said HARDY in a statement of the titular character of the wild and roaring track. “That boy’s got some demons, he’s a heathen Put him at a pew, he needs some Jesus now… All I know’s I’m gonna live this redneck life until it kills me.”
Both “I Don’t Miss” and “Happy Hour” are cleverly written mid-tempos, with “I Don’t Miss” providing an anthemic proclamation on the chorus that can easily be imagined as a theme song for athletes, politicians and sports teams. Meanwhile, “Happy Hour” finds him struggling with the title given to day drinking, musing that everyone is sad to be drinking when the sun is still out.
“Orphan” finds him grappling with his place in Nashville, declaring himself “the orphan of this country music town,” while “SOUL4SALE” pairs him with Limp Bizkit frontman Fred Durst as they admit they’ll sell their souls for success, which builds to a roaring climax.
While HARDY’s heavier side is on full display on QUIT!!, he still manages to show his softer side on songs like the poignant “WHYBMWL” and “Six Feet Under (Caleigh’s Song).” While the former finds him wondering where someone’s been his whole life, the latter is HARDY at his best, grappling with his own mortality as he struggles with the aftermath of an accident and wondering where things end up.
“Where do you go when you die? // How do you know when you’re there? // If Heaven’s a moment you wish never ended // Then I’m six feet under somewhere // But I’m six feet under somewhere // I swear to God, I thought I was dead // On the side of the road with glass in my head // Ah, but death ain’t what scared me to death in the end // It was thinking I’d never see you again”
For HARDY, QUIT!! definitely shows a side of the acclaimed singer-songwriter that’s been bubbling just below the surface for years, and while it’s not quite country, it still shows why he’s become one of the genre’s most recognizable stars.
Quit! Track List:
QUIT!! (Michael Hardy, Jacob Durrett)
ROCKSTAR (Michael Hardy, Jacob Durrett, Blake Pendergrass)
GOOD GIRL PHASE (feat. Chad Smith) (Michael Hardy, David Garcia, Hunter Phelps)
I DON’T MISS (Michael Hardy, David Garcia, Hunter Phelps)
Quit!! is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hardy-arock-crop.jpg.webp10541581Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2024-07-12 00:11:032024-07-12 00:11:03HARDY ‘Quit!!’ – Album Review
HARDY and friends honor Joe Diffie in the brand new collaborative album, HIXTAPE VOL. 3: DIFFTAPE, out now on, March 29th. Listen to the new songs here!
HARDY is the most in-demand songwriter in Nashville and is slowly becoming one of the most popular recording artists as well. However, his flourishing singing career has not stopped him from continuing the fan favorite HIXTAPE series. HIXTAPE started out as a 10-track project curated by HARDY in 2019 (before his debut album, A Rock) that featured 18 artists. Vol. 1 produced the chart topper, “One Beer” with Lauren Alaina and Devin Dawson. Vol. 2 took it up a notch, containing 14 tracks with 33 features. Vol. 3 took a different route, paying tribute to the late Joe Diffie on the fourth anniversary of his passing. The album contains 17 songs, all Diffie covers, including one unreleased track. The record was produced by Joey Moi.
The project came about at the CMA Awards when rap/pop star Post Malone joined HARDY and Morgan Wallen on stage to perform Diffie’s “John Deere Green” and “Pickup Man” as an homage to the GRAMMY and CMA Award-winning country star. Both songs charted in the top-5 with the latter spending five weeks at number one between 1994-1995.
Aside from those two songs, the project contains other number one hits such as “Home,” “If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets),” “Third Rock from the Sun,” and “Bigger Than The Beatles.” First-time HIXTAPE features include legends such as Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn, and the late Toby Keith. Rising country stars include Kameron Marlowe, Nate Smith, Lauren Watkins, and Larry Fleet. While HARDY played more of a supporting role on the record, only providing his vocals for three tracks, he got to sing the chorus on the unreleased song “Life Had Plans For Me,” alongside Diffie and his son, Parker. The tune tells the tale of someone whose plans of becoming a football star were halted when he received the news that he was going to be a dad. Listen to the reflective, heart-warming story below!
“When something more important comes along // And you’re forced to give up // What you’ve been workin’ toward // Waitin’ for, chasin’, slavin’, cravin’, and prayin’ for // The chance to live your dreams // He said I had plans for life // Oh but life had plans for me”
“As someone who had the profound privilege of performing alongside my father, it fills my heart with immense joy to witness his enduring legacy continued with the same passion and fervor that he embodied,” Parker Diffie shared in a recent press release. “The release of HIXTAPE: Vol. 3: DIFFTAPE is an opportunity to not only celebrate the past but also to embrace the future with reverence and enthusiasm.”
Finding artists for this record must have been an easy task for HARDY and Big Loud. Diffie will always be remembered as an icon who transcended the genre in the 90s. We could imagine, it would be an honor to cover one of Diffie’s hits and be a part of such a memorable project.
HIXTAPE VOL. 3: DIFFTAPE. Track List:
John Deere Green (Joe Diffie, Morgan Wallen & HARDY)
Pickup Man (Joe Diffie, Post Malone)
Ships That Don’t Come In (Joe Diffie, Toby Keith & Luke Combs)
Third Rock From The Sun (Joe Diffie, Blake Shelton, HARDY & Brooks & Dunn)
Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die) (Joe Diffie, Tracy Lawrence, Lainey Wilson & The Difftones)
Bigger Than The Beatles (Joe Diffie, Jon Pardi & Old Dominion)
Honky Tonk Attitude (Joe Diffie, Luke Bryan & Randy Houser)
Is It Cold In Here (Joe Diffie, Reba McEntire & Jake Worthington)
Texas Size Heartache (Joe Diffie, Clint Black & Larry Fleet)
Home (Joe Diffie, Darius Rucker & Hailey Whitters)
C-O-U-N-T-R-Y (Joe Diffie, Aaron Tippin & ERNEST)
So Help Me Girl (Joe Diffie, Mark Wills & Nate Smith)
New Way (To Light Up An Old Flame) (Joe Diffie, Randall King & Sammy Kershaw)
If The Devil Danced In Empty Pockets (Joe Diffie, Jack Ingram & Koe Wetzel)
A Night To Remember (Joe Diffie, Lauren Watkins & Kameron Marlowe)
In Another World (Joe Diffie, Chris Young)
Life Had Plans For Me (Joe Diffie, HARDY & Parker Diffie)
HARDY shares HIXTAPE VOL. 3: DIFFTAPE, out now on all streaming platforms.
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HIXTAPE VOL. 3: DIFFTAPE 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.
