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Jordan Davis Drops “Cool Anymore” Featuring Julia Michaels

November 8, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

After just releasing his first new song, “Trouble Town,” since his debut project Home State, Jordan Davis is giving fans, even more, to be excited about. The singer-songwriter premiered another new song today entitled “Cool Anymore,” which features pop vocalist, Julia Michaels.

Davis teased the collaboration earlier in the week, performing his rendition of Michaels’ song “Issues” on his Instagram, sharing that it was “stuck in [his] head all day.” Later on, he took to Instagram again, announcing the new song and calling the songstress “one of the most talented artists in music.” The combination of their vocals on the new song is unexpected, but boy does it work!

Co-written by Davis and Michaels with superstar songwriters, Nicolle Galyon, Ross Copperman and Emily Weisband, “Cool Anymore” is a vibe in itself. Expressed through the eyes of someone who loves you, Davis and Michaels encourage listeners to be themselves and to let down their guards. The song aims to remind listeners that they can be their silly, normal self at home and with the ones they love, and to not like their work image or persona to take over.

According to Davis, “‘Cool Anymore’ is a song about not taking things too seriously.” In a recent press release, he goes on to explain, “We spend a lot of time playing shows and it’s easy to get caught up in it, but this song is just a reminder to leave work at work. It’s a job. Enjoy it, go out to do the music thing, but then come back and be a husband and a friend.”

The song is groovy and fun to listen to. Fans will want to have as much fun as Michaels and Davis do in the exuberant music video for the track. Both the song and the video will music lovers to let loose and that we are lucky to have people who love us in our lives.

Fans can catch Davis on tour in the new year, where he will most likely sing the new tune with one of his tour mates, Hailey Whitters or Kassi Ashton. The tour makes its way to New York City’s Webster Hall on March 19th. For tickets and more information, head to jordandavisofficial.com

To keep up with Jordan Davis, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Cool Anymore” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check our 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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Jordan Davis Releases “Trouble Town” and Announces Headlining Tour

October 28, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

With both a number one and number two single under his belt “Singles You Up” and “Take It From Me” from his critically-acclaimed debut record Home State, Jordan Davis decided to up the ante, finally releasing new music. “Trouble Town” premiered last Friday (10/25) and it has the signature Davis vibe that fans are sure to love. Fan club ‘The Parish’ members got to hear the song first, as Davis made it available early for diehard fans.

The new mid-tempo song is laid-back, cool, and enticing, fitting into his catalog of songs effortlessly. Its sensual message is clearly meant for lovers, as Davis laments about knowing that he’s headed for ‘no good,’ but that he cannot help himself. Written by the singer with songwriters, Josh Jenkins and Matthew Jenkins, the song is as relatable as it gets. We all can relate to knowing that something or someone is bad for us, but yet, it is still desirable. As always, Davis conveys honest and vulnerable lyrics that make his music so refreshing.

“Gimme those ‘Leave here’ eyes / I’ll follow you out that door / Ain’t even left the parking lot / Already know that I’m heading for / Trouble town”

Davis just ended a successful opening gig on tour with Old Dominion. We caught his performance when the tour stopped in New York City back in May. Going forward, the recording artist will be a staple at country music festivals this season, including Tortuga as well as his headlining tour, announced early this morning. The “Trouble Town” Tour will feature two rising female artists that we love, Hailey Whitters and Kassi Ashton. Both ladies just joined Maren Morris on her GIRL The World Tour and we caught the show at Radio City Music Hall.

“I’m really excited to get back on the road and in front of my amazing fans,” Davis says in a recent press release. “Kassi is just a true artist in every sense of the word and Hailey is an extremely talented songwriter, I’m glad the rest of the world is getting to know both of them. Not only are they incredible songwriters, singers, and artists but they are even better people and I’m honored to have them out with me.”

TROUBLE TOWN TOUR Dates:

Jan. 10 Milwaukee, WI The Rave*
Jan. 11 Rosemont, IL Joe’s Live*
Jan. 16 Springfield, IL Boondocks*
Jan. 17 Minneapolis, MN Varsity Theater*
Jan. 25 Detroit, MI Majestic Theatre**
Jan. 30 Charlottesville, VA Jefferson Theater*
Jan. 31 Charlotte, NC Coyote Joe’s*
Feb. 1 Atlanta, GA Buckhead Theatre*
Feb. 6 Cincinnati, OH Bogart’s*
Feb. 7 Madison, WI Majestic Theatre*
Feb. 20 Council Bluffs, IA Whiskey Roadhouse**
Feb. 21 Denver, CO Grizzly Rose**
Feb. 22 Denver, CO Grizzly Rose**
Feb. 27 Boise, ID Knitting Factory+
Feb. 28 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory+
Feb. 29 Eugene, OR McDonald Theatre**
Mar. 5 Sacramento, CA Ace of Spades+
Mar. 6 Los Angeles, CA El Rey Theatre**
Mar. 19 New York, NY Webster Hall**
Mar. 20 Verona, NY Turning Stone Resort Casino**
Mar. 21 Baltimore, MD Rams Head Live**

*Featuring Kassi Ashton
**Featuring Hailey Whitters
+Show Opener TBD

To keep up with Jordan Davis, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Trouble Town” 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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Jordan Davis Releases Heartfelt Video for “Slow Dance in a Parking Lot”

July 16, 2019/in Blog /by Erica Zisman

Our NYCS 2018 Artist to Watch, Jordan Davis is having quite the year! He continues to make waves with his debut album Homestate, including making his television debut and scoring two back to back number one songs with “Singles You Up” and “Take It From Me.” Now the singer-songwriter is impressing with his third single, “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot,” which he just released a heartfelt music video for earlier this week.

The retro-inspired video begins with familiar images that Davis has been teasing on his Instagram gearing up to its release. It has a throwback vibe that’s reminiscent of classic 90s movies, which only adds to the ambiance of the enticing track. “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot” is a catchy love song about appreciating the simple things in life with the one you love, which is truly personified in the visual. The lyrical story is told beautifully through the eyes of a young boy as he experiences different pivotal moments throughout his life. The video is truly both emotive and heartwarming.

Check out the full-length video below.

Although the music video was a nice surprise, Davis has more surprises in store for fans. Joining the list of country music artists growing the country music family this year, Davis simultaneously announced to fans that he and his wife, are expecting their first child together. Who knew that the song could get even sweeter!

We last caught up with Davis on tour with Old Dominion and Mitchell Tenpenny at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden back in May. The whole night, and especially his performance was truly one for the books. We’re eager to see Davis again soon, but for those willing to travel, he will play in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 23rd as the opening act on Rascal Flatts: Summer Playlist Tour 2019. For tickets and more information, head to jordandavisofficial.com.

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

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Old Dominion, Jordan Davis & Mitchell Tenpenny Sold Out Show in NYC

May 20, 2019/in Blog /by Christina Bosch

Nestled underneath the grandeur of the iconic Madison Square Garden is an intimate venue, The Hulu Theater at MSG. Friday night three of country music’s biggest rising acts took the stage to perform for a sold-out crowd, as the Make It Sweet Tour made its way to New York City.

Old Dominion/Mitchell Tenpenny/Jordan Davis

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

One of our Swag Session alums, and 2019 Artists to Watch, Mitchell Tenpenny took the stage first, and it was remarkable to watch the room, which was almost completely packed at that early part of the night, engage with Tenpenny and his music. He sang “Truck I Drove In High School”, “Goner” and the title track to his debut album which was released late last year, “Telling All My Secrets”. Another great moment was watching him perform his current single “Alcohol You Later” and already seeing the crowd loving it.

“I’ve gotta thank you guys for changing our lives this year with our next song, gave us our first platinum song, which is crazy, I never thought that would happen, you bought it, you streamed the shit out of it, thank you so much for that.” Tenpenny humbly expressed to the crowd. “And then you requested it so much at radio, you gave us our first number one song, I was so grateful for that. And now we get to come to cool cities, like New York City and play our music.” He performed “Drunk Me” and throughout the entirety of the song, the whole crowd was singing back to him, at one point, he even stood back to just let them sing, it was an overwhelming moment for the singer-songwriter.

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

Closing the night with “Bitches”, a song that isn’t about “calling guys bitches or calling girls bitches, it’s about calling bitches, bitches,” he laughed. We watched his performance of this one, a song we caught during our Swag Session in 2017 and were so proud that we can champion him and continue to watch where his already successful career goes.

Jordan Davis / Old Dominion / Mitchell Tenpenny

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

Next up was another artist that we chose back in 2018 as One to Watch, Jordan Davis. The singer-songwriter from Shreveport Lousiana already has two number one hits to his name and took full advantage of the sold-out crowd, running up and down the catwalk and interacting with the fans in the pit. His debut album, Home State is packed with radio-ready singles and he performed a few of them on Friday including “Selfish” which he mashed with Hailee Steinfeld’s “Starving”, “Leaving New Orleans”, and “Tough to Tie Down”. He also covered Tim McGraw’s classic, “Something Like That”, putting his own spin on it.

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

His set wouldn’t be complete without performing both of his number one hits, “Take It From Me” and “Singles You Up”. At this point, the pit in front of the stage was completely packed and all of the seats were filled and at times the audience screaming back the lyrics was so loud you could barely hear Davis. He left the stage and the crowd ready to enjoy the final act and headliners of the night, Old Dominion.

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

We’ve seen the guys in Old Dominion in some of the smallest rooms in New York City over the past few years including Joe’s Pub, Housing Works Bookstore Cafe, and Arlene’s Grocery. The important thing to remember is that no matter the size of the room or the number of people who are there to see them, they always give 110% percent of not only a high-energy performance but they can set your soul on fire with their meaningful lyrics and delivery.

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

Playing to a sold-out room in a much bigger venue, Old Dominion did just that for the lucky fans in attendance. Their set included their biggest radio hits including “Snapback”, “Break Up With Him”, “Hotel Key” and “Written in the Sand”. They also included a few album cuts that haven’t made their way to the radio which we know fans of the band were happy about like “Said Nobody” and “Half Empty” from their debut album Meat and Candy.

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

Highlights from their set included “New York At Night” where stunning visuals of our beautiful city lit up the background of the five band members as they sang lines like “With that just right Friday night curl in your hair / Got my heart beating louder than Madison Square / That electric energy / Something tells me you’re gonna keep me going til the morning light / Girl your like New York at night”. It seemed as if the songwriters (Brad Tursi, Trevor Rosen, and Jordan Schmidt) had written those lines specifically for that moment in time on Friday night.

Another rather surprising moment was when Matthew Ramsey stood at the front of the catwalk and announced they were going to sing their new song, “One Man Band” and from the first word to the last, the crowd was screaming the lyrics back to the band. It was such a special point of the night, watching loved ones turn to each other and sing the ballad, the emotion was palpable and could be felt throughout the room. Taking time to slow things down, Tursi, Rosen, and Ramsey took a seat at the top of the catwalk to chat with the audience about the culminating moments that led to them sitting in front of a sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater. They played the songs they have written for other artists that have become hits including “Wake Up Loving You”, “Better Dig Two”, “Make You Miss Me” and Michael Ray’s latest number one “One That Got Away”. “Before you ever realized it, you were listening to our music, and before country radio ever realized it they were playing our music, and as broke ass songwriters in Nashville, you need every little bit of motivation you can get,” Ramsey told the crowd. “Every song made us want to write another one, crowds got a little bigger, shows got a little better, we kept writing, we kept playing until finally we can come to New York City and play in a beautiful room like this one.”

Mike Spotz (@illkoncept) for NYCountry Swag

Old Dominion closed the night with the first single revealed from their forthcoming project, the upbeat “Make It Sweet” and a throwback “Wrong Turns”. The magical night was the perfect way to kick off the summer concert season, bringing some of the best rising talents in Davis and Tenpenny as well as established stars Old Dominion to New York. Head to our calendar to find out all of the shows heading to our area this summer!

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10 Jordan Davis Lyrics To Use As Instagram Captions

May 10, 2019/in Blog /by Danielle Tornatore

Between scoring two number one singles at country radio with “Singles You Up” and “Take It From Me,” to winning the 2019 iHeartRadio Music Award for Best New Country Artist, Jordan Davis has had one whirlwind of a year. Our 2018 Artist to Watch was an opening act on the ‘Make It Sweet Tour’ for two-time ACM Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion.

Davis made waves with his debut album Homestate, with its storytelling candid lyrics, to catchy beats. We’ve compiled some of his best lyrics to accompany your Instagram photos.

1. “You can steal a kiss, I won’t call you a thief” – Take It From Me

2. “Is it worse that you’re so gone, that I don’t even cross your mind or that I’ll be dreaming that you’re coming back again tonight” – Dreamed You Did

3. “And I don’t care what song comes next, I’m falling right here don’t want a safety net” – Slow Dance In A Parking Lot

4. “I still got your number and I wonder what you’re doing tonight” – Going ‘Round

5. “I like the way you’re more than I know what to do with” – More Than I Know

6. “I’ll be rolling like the Mississippi leaving New Orleans” – Leaving New Orleans

7. “If you don’t wanna say goodbye just yet, think we got a lot more left to do tonight” – So Do I

8. “She’s always drifting and always dreaming” – Tough To Tie Down

9. “Everything falls into place as soon as I see your face” – Made That Way

10. “If he ever singles you up, if he’s ever stupid enough, I’mma be the first one calling you baby” – Singles You Up

11. “Lose the mirrors, I see through the smoke. Save all that for the rest of the world”- Cool Anymore

12. “Hand ‘round the wheel of my heart, girl”- Trouble Town

13. “Don’t give a damn about the plans you made, we’re staying in the bed all day”- Selfish

14. “We can be sundowners, intertowners waitin’ on a spark”- Sundowners

15. “All those miles can clear my mind”- Leaving New Orleans

If you are catching a show be sure to tag us in your posts for a chance to be featured on our Instagram!

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Jordan Davis Performs “Take It From Me” on Good Morning America

March 20, 2019/in Blog /by Molly Holmberg

Here at NY Country Swag, we are always proud to see one of our NYCountry Swag’s 2018 Artists to Watch make another huge step in his or her career, and this morning was no different. After scoring yet another #1 song, Jordan Davis set off to New York City to make his Good Morning America debut.

While some people consider signing a record deal, scoring a number one song, or playing the Opry stage making it in the industry, for Davis’s grandma, its playing GMA. Even though he’s scored two No. 1 songs and scored several awards nominations this is the big step in her eyes. Davis said in a recent press release “To be honest with ya, in the eyes of my grandmother, I’ve officially made it. In her eyes, I’m on GMA, I might as well be in the Musicians Hall of Fame over here, you know?”

Kicking off his debut, he was introduced to the audience by host Ginger Zee, “Rising country star Jordan Davis. He was named Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2018 and here he is with his number one hit off the album Home State this is “Take It From Me.” Surrounded by blues, purples, and pinks, the lighting set the mood and upbeat feel of the song. The “Take It From Me” singer killed the performance with his raw vocals and guitar licks. Add flashing lights as a backdrop and Davis swaying back and forth and you get one phenomenal Good Morning America debut.

Davis is currently up for New Male Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards and after hitting it big at the iHeart Awards recently, he has a great shot at scoring another. He is currently on the road with Old Dominion as part of the Make It Sweet Tour with a few more upcoming stops before joining Rascal Flatts in July for the Summer Playlist Tour.

To keep up with Jordan Davis follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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NYCS 2018 Artist To Watch Where Are They Now: Jordan Davis

December 20, 2018/in Blog /by Molly Holmberg

Here at New York Country Swag, we pride ourselves on being tastemakers, finding and championing new and up-and-coming artists and introducing our followers to the best of the best of the rising acts. Back in January of this year we named the 10 artists below in our “Artists to Watch in 2018” and we are proud to say, we know rising talent before they make it big. Someone to add to your watchlist, if you haven’t already, is Jordan Davis.

A lot has changed for the new-comer since Davis released his debut album, Home State earlier this year. Following the release of his album, the first single sent to radio was “Singles You Up” which hit No.1 on the Country Airplay chart, making it his very first. The song also been streamed more than 300 million times across all platforms since its release. As the year is coming to an end the song is still sitting in the Top 20.

Over the summer Davis hit the road alongside Chris Janson on Jake Owen’s “Life’s Whatcha Make It” tour. Hitting 21 ballparks and venues across the country the rising artist had a very busy summer. Davis’s next single was “Take It From Me” which brought Davis a new first, as it was the first time he collaborated with his brother Jacob Davis to write it. The Davis brothers are each other’s number one fans so for Davis be able to write a song with his brother and have the success it is having is huge for the pair! This song is climbing up the chart sitting at No. 15 currently.

Going into the latter half of the year, Davis hoped back on tour all fall with Kip Moore’s Room To Spare tour alongside Jillian Jacqueline. Since then there has been talk about Davis’s sophomore album coming in 2019 and what it will entail. While many of his songs on Home State have inspiration from Davis’s courtship with then girlfriend and now wife, Kristen O’Connor, the Louisiana-native will have songs that reflect married life in his next album.

As the year winds down Davis has a ton to celebrate as the year comes to a close. He hits the road again with Old Dominion on Jan. 18th and fans can check out tour dates here.

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2018: Most New Artists to Top Charts with Debut Singles in Over a Decade

December 12, 2018/in Blog /by Nicole Piering

In 2018, country music saw a dynamic shift at the top of the charts, with radio no longer being ruled by the old guard. While the likes of Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, and Old Dominion all had #1 hits this year, the charts saw an onslaught of chart-toppers hits by country newbies. In fact, there were five new artists who scored #1’s with their debut singles, including Jordan Davis, Jimmie Allen, Russell Dickerson, Mitchell Tenpenny, and Morgan Evans.

Russell Dickerson: “Yours”

Despite originally being released digitally in 2015, “Yours” was truly the little song that could, being released to country radio by Triple Tigers Records in April 2017. The romantic wedding song, co-written by Dickerson, Parker Welling, and Casey Brown, slowly climbed the charts, hitting #1 for two weeks in late-January and early-February.

“[“Yours”] was only the second song that the three of us ever wrote together,” Dickerson told Billboard. “It’s certainly a love song, written for my wife, Kailey. I’m not kidding: when we finished it, we knew it was special, and I said to Casey and Parker, ‘You can go to zillow.com and pick out a new house, ’cause we just wrote a No. 1 song.'”

Dickerson would go on to score his second #1 eight months later with “Blue Tacoma.”

Jordan Davis: “Singles You Up”

Written by Jordan Davis, Steven Dale Jones, and Justin Ebach, “Singles You Up” was the debut single from Davis, and the first release from his album, Home State. “It took us a little while to land on something, but at the time Justin had just gotten engaged and through congratulating him on the engagement that term, ‘single her up,’ got said,” Davis told Rolling Stone Country of the writing session. “Right when it was said, I think all three of us were like, ‘Oh man, that’s really cool.’”

Davis will be spending much of 2019 on tour with Old Dominion, Morgan Evans, and Mitchell Tenpenny as part of the Make It Sweet Tour. The tour will stop at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT on February 8.

Morgan Evans: “Kiss Somebody”

Released in July 2017, at the lead single from his Morgan Evans EP, “Kiss Somebody” was Morgan Evan’s first release to U.S. country radio, and his first #1. Co-written by Evans, Chris DeStefano, and Josh Osborne, the track hit #1 over a year after its initial release.

Interestingly enough, Evans told Nash Country Daily that the romantic tune was NOT inspired by his superstar wife, Kelsea Ballerini. “A lot of people asked me if I wrote [“Kiss Somebody”] about Kelsea,” said Evans. “No. The answer is absolutely no. It was inspired by a mate of mine, actually. I used to stay with him in Nashville before I moved here, and he went through this really rough breakup and he was devastated. And, I was with him through that period, and I went back to Australia. A year and a half later, I came back and he was still devastated over this situation. And, I was like, ‘Dude! You need to kiss somebody!’ And so, the lyrics kind of go, “Sometimes you’ve got to drink about somebody / Sometimes you’ve got to cry and miss somebody / Sometimes you’ve got to kiss somebody.’”

Jimmie Allen: “Best Shot”

When Jimmie Allen’s “Best Shot” became a #1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, Allen made history by becoming the first black artist to have a debut single top the country charts. Interestingly, after losing the top spot on December 8 to Kane Brown’s “Lose It,” Allen’s song returned to the top spot December 15, making “Best Shot” the first song by any artist to reclaim the top spot after descending in over a decade.

“If someone asked me two years ago if I thought that this would be my life today—that I’d be on the red carpet at the CMAs or my song would be the No. 1 song on country radio, I would have honestly said no,” reflected Allen in a statement. “Did I think it would happen eventually? Absolutely! Just not this soon. I’m humbled and grateful— it’s such an honor to get my first No. 1 and to know that my song is connecting with people and resonating in a way that hopefully makes us all better people in the end, because that’s really what ‘Best Shot’ is all about.”

Allen will kick off 2019 on tour with Scotty McCreery’s Seasons Change Tour, with a stop at Westbury, NY’s NYCB Theatre on January 26.

Mitchell Tenpenny: “Drunk Me”

Just five days before the release of his debut album, Telling All My Secrets (December 14), on Riser House/ Columbia Nashville, Mitchell Tenpenny’s first single, “Drunk Me,” became the top song on the Mediabase/ Country Airplay chart. Co-written by Tenpenny, Jordan M. Schmidt, and Justin Wilson, the single was officially released in March, and climbed to the top position nearly nine months later.

“I recorded ‘Drunk Me’ after pitching it to other artists in town for over six months,” recalled Tenpenny in a statement. “I believed in my heart it was such a special song and that it would be a hit for someone. I never dreamt it would be the song labels first heard from me, resulting in a record deal … or that it would go on to bring us our first single, let alone a number one.” He continues, “It’s been a two-year journey with this song, yet so many believed, and so, this is one of those moments we all share together – my co-writers, our band and record label, country radio and all the fans that have streamed it over 120 million times. I can’t get over you. You’ve changed my life.”

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NYCountry Swag’s Favorite Concerts of Summer 2018

September 5, 2018/in Blog, Team Picks /by Team Country Swag

Christina Bosch: The Fest Featuring Brown and Gray, Mitchell Tenpenny, Russell Dickerson, and Dustin Lynch

This summer as Managing Editor for New York Country Swag we attended at least one show a week, sometimes two or three. Narrowing my favorite concerts to one was a hard decision but as a big fan of rising artists, I think one of the greatest experiences we had was attending The Fest out on Long Island. The lineup featured Brown and Gray, Mitchell Tenpenny, Russell Dickerson and Dustin Lynch. Over the past year, we have seen each of these artists perform separately whether it was a Live Swag Session like we did here with Brown and Gray or Mitchell Tenpenny or catching Dustin Lynch at Playstation Theatre or Russell Dickerson at his sold-out NJ show.

Seeing them all on one stage was truly incredible, their unique talents and the different vibe each bring to the country music genre made for the perfect night of music. Between Brown and Gray’s summer hit “Top Down” to Dickerson’s venue-wide sing-a-long to his latest single “Blue Tacoma” the audience was loving these rising artists and the smash hits they are releasing.

Stephanie Wagner: Mitchell Tenpenny at Mercury Lounge

As Christina mentioned, we had the incredible opportunity to see so many amazing shows this summer. One of my favorite things to do with this company is to support rising artists which is what makes Mitchell Tenpenny’s Mercury Lounge show my favorite show of the summer.

We first worked with Mitchell back in December when we did a Live Swag Session in the heart of Times Square. This was before he had a song on the radio and before his record deal with Riser House/ Sony Nashville. I had been a fan of his since the first time I heard his music, so I was excited to work with him that day. To see how hard he has worked and watch his debut single hit the Top 20, makes me so proud of the artist and person he is. Tenpenny sold out his Mercury Lounge show two weeks before the date, which is a huge accomplishment for a new artist on a NYC play. There was a special sense of magic in the room that night catching Tenpenny’s performance while the packed house sang back every word to his hour long set. You only get to experience your ‘firsts’ once, so being in the room to experience Tenpenny’s first sold out headlining NYC show is a memory I will treasure.

Crystal Fenton: Trip Around the Sun Tour Kenny Chesney

Seeing Kenny Chesney live has LONG been on my bucket list, so naturally, the Trip Around the Sun tour was my absolute favorite concert of summer 2018. Plus, with Old Dominion & Thomas Rhett as openers, even a multi-hour rain delay at MetLife stadium couldn’t damper (see what I did there?!) the vibe of No Shoes Nation. The show was amazing from start to finish. What a perfect & appropriate way to close out the summer while kicking off September, my birthday month where I’ll take another trip around the sun myself; My first Kenny show definitely won’t be the last! For a full recap and more photos of the Metlife Stadium show, click here.

Photo by Matthew Paskert

Molly Holmberg: Jake Owen, Chris Janson, and Jordan Davis

Jake Owen has always been the barefoot blue jean icon in country music and when he takes the stage, he embraces that. During his “Life’s What You Make It” tour this summer he came out barefoot every night and ready for a party. Playing hits like “Good Company”, “Beachin’”, and even a mash-up between Eight Second Ride / Mountain Music / Tennessee River / Dixieland Delight, he puts on a show.

With opening acts Chris Janson and Jordan Davis, the night gets started with a kick. By the time Owen steps foot on stage, the fans have been on their feet the past two hours and are ready for more. The 37-year-old’s big smile with a loose and carefree attitude brings so much life and energy to the stage. He comes to not only entertain but to have a good time with the fans. He is engaging, charismatic, and an overall nice guy. His concert puts you in a feel-good mood by the end of the night. So if you are looking for a great concert, Jake Owen’s is definitely worth every penny.

Owen is putting out music that is real country. And real country is the reason Jake Owen’s future keeps looking promising. Check out his latest party song single “Down To The Honkytonk” here.

Nicole Piering: The Bandwagon Tour Featuring Tenille Townes, Little Big Town, and Miranda Lambert

When it comes to summer in New York, Jones Beach is undoubtedly the best place to see a concert. While I attended quite a few this year, my favorite show of the summer was definitely Little Big Town and Miranda Lambert’s “The Bandwagon Tour.” For one, it was great to see these two superstar acts play at Jones Beach, but even better, the set they did together was electric. While both Lambert and LBT played their own shows, they also combined forces into an epic super-group for a 40-minute set that included some of their biggest hits and some incredible covers. “Boondocks” is always one of my favorite songs to hear live, and their joint covers of “Goodbye Earl,” “Say My Name,” and “Let’s Go Crazy” were all phenomenal. I’d love to see other acts join forces and make shows like this more popular in the future. The full recap of The Bandwagon’s Jones Beach tour stop here.

Nicole Sellati: CMA Fest

This year I was lucky enough to attend the music event of the summer, CMA Fest! This was easily my favorite week of the year! The week was jam-packed with amazing artists, going from concert to concert with no stopping. Some highlights for me were going inside to the fan fair as well as attend the fan parties of Michael Ray and Luke Bryan. These were the events I was looking forward to the most while in Nashville, getting to see the artists up close and personal in an intimate setting. Luke Bryan’s fan club party was in celebration of 10 years of the Nut House where he got to play an acoustic set, performing songs he hasn’t in years. CMA Fest as a whole was amazing but if I had to choose my favorite night at Nissan Stadium I would say Sunday was hands down the best. The last night had all my favorite artists starting with Brett Eldredge, Cole Swindell, Thomas Rhett, Dierks Bentley, Florida Georgia Line, and closing the night was Luke Bryan. It was a night I never wanted to end and thanks to Luke Bryan he made it last a little longer. He was just getting warmed up and ended up playing for over an hour closing out the best concert of my summer. CMA Fest was as perfect as I imagined and I can’t wait to be back next year!

Shanna Vitaliano: Ashley McBryde at Taste of Country Music Festival

My favorite concert of the summer was seeing Ashley McBryde at Taste of Country Music Festival in Hunter Mountain, NY on June 9th. Ashley has an infectious personality onstage. She is down to earth, extremely humble, and her stage presence along with her sense of humor had every festival goer’s attention. Her incredible songwriting ability shined through during “The Jacket” and powerful voice captivated all during “American Scandal.” It was my first time seeing her live after being a fan of her album Girl Goin’ Nowhere and I look forward to seeing her again. Her next show in the NYC area will be December 5th at Gramercy Theatre, grab your tickets here.

Danielle Tornatore: Sam Hunt and Kane Brown in Atlantic City

I attended almost twenty concerts this summer but my favorite had to be Sam Hunt and Kane Brown at Atlantic City BeachFest on July 1st. There are so many reasons why this was my favorite show, one being, I got to road trip there and back with two of my best friends. It’s about two and a half hours each way from us so we were able to make some great memories together. Between jamming out to some great music, sharing stories and just making each other laugh, it was overall a great trip. The day this show got announced, we knew we had to go. We’ve seen Sam Hunt together multiple times, but we had yet to see Kane Brown and he is one of our favorites. We missed Kane when he played at Irving Plaza in New York City in 2016 so we knew this was our perfect opportunity. It was literally 100 degrees out that day and the show was on the actual beach, toes in the sand and all, and despite the heatwave, both guys put on an incredible show which made me admire them even more. Myself, along with the rest of the crowd, were sweating. So much. But the two of them somehow made everyone forget about the weather and just get lost in the music. In the middle of Kane’s set, most of the sound equipment went out from the intense heat but he kept the show going and that is one of the many reasons why I am a huge fan of his. Sam was jumping all around the stage, as usual, during his entire set and maintained his high energy the whole time. It honestly was a day I will never forget and another memory I’ve gained with my best friends.

Erica Zisman: CMAFest (Lee Brice at HGTV Lodge)

Public service announcement: Go to Country Music Association Fest (CMA Fest) in Nashville, Tennessee at least once. Although there are a ton of wonderful concerts held in New York, especially those good ole’ country shows at Jones Beach Amphitheater on Long Island, CMA Fest is a once (or more if you’re lucky) in a lifetime experience for any country music lover. The four-day festival combines some of the biggest names in country music, such as Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett, with new artists and up and coming artists, like Dylan Scott and Morgan Wallen, into a musical extravaganza. The event is packed with free shows all day long, free shows at night, and the ticketed Nissan Stadium line up.

I was able to experience CMA Fest for the second time this summer. One of my favorite free venues is the HGTV Lodge, which is an intimate venue that gets you up close and personal with an artist, while the singer performs acoustically. I was able to see Lee Brice perform, for the first time in June. Hearing some of his hits: “Drinking Class”, “Love Like Crazy”, and his most recent single, “Rumor”, live and stripped down, was one of my favorite concert moments of the summer. Brice was extremely charming, poised, and humble; despite, his major success and even opened the doors to extra fans, who were unable to get into the lodge, due to it being over capacity. Being able to relate to Brice’s songs, but also, Brice as a human being was a really special moment for me and my friends. It was a “concert” I will never forget.

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What We’re Listening To: August Picks

August 15, 2018/in Blog, Team Picks /by Team Country Swag

We recently welcomed a team of writers to the NYCountry Swag Squad. With that, we’re excited to introduce a new monthly feature with our “What We’re Listening To” playlist, where we will highlight the wide range of our team’s favorite songs and artists when it comes to the country music genre. At the end of the day, we are all fans first with a passion for country music and are eager to share with you all what we’ve got on repeat each month.

Find below each of our team member’s favorite songs and why in our August picks. Then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

AUGUST PICKS:

Stephanie Wagner, Founder

Pick: “Drunk Me” – Mitchell Tenpenny
Songwriters: Jordan Schmidt / Justin Wilson / Mitchell Tenpenny

“Mitchell Tenpenny’s “Drunk Me” is easily one of my favorite songs out there right now. We were fortunate enough to hear the song back in early February when Tenpenny performed it live at CRS. The song puts a unique twist on a typical heartbreak song. Where most associate heartbreaks with getting drunk, Tenpenny goes the opposite route with the idea that someone would need to get sober to stop thinking about the other person, because “Drunk Me” can’t stop thinking about you.

Pairing the powerful lyrics with Tenpenny’s voice is key in highlighting the emotions on this track. It’s catchy, it’s relatable, it’s emotional, it’s everything you need in a hit song.”

Christina Bosch, Managing Editor

Pick: “Somebody’s Daughter” – Tenille Townes
Songwriters: Tenille Townes / Luke Laird / Barry Dean

“For my very first pick, there was no doubt in my mind that I was going to choose Tenille Townes. I went back and forth between two of the songs she released on her Living Room Worktapes but finally landed on “Somebody’s Daughter”. In big cities like New York and Nashville, homelessness is an absolute epidemic and every person reading this piece or listening to music, in general, has experienced what Townes’ expresses in her latest single. Waiting for the light to change, to escape the awkward stares that the man or woman on the corner gives, while holding their cardboard sign. Instead of looking away, the songwriters tell the tale of curiosity, how did this person end up here when they were probably just like us growing up. Reminiscing on a made-up past for the woman in the shaggy clothes just wanting a couple of dollars, Townes’ brings light to a dark situation that we all encounter, but does it in a way that country music sorely needs right now.

“Bet she was somebody’s best friend, laughin’ / Back when she was somebody’s sister / Countin’ change at the lemonade stand / Probably somebody’s high school first kiss / Dancin’ in a gym where the kids all talk about someday plans / Now this light’ll turn green and I’ll hand her a couple dollars / And I’ll wonder how she felt when no one caught her / She’s somebody’s daughter”

I am always a fan of the drinking songs that we can enjoy at tailgates and raise a glass to, but when a song and a songwriter come along that really tugs at my heart, I will always choose the raw, real side of country music.”

Nicole Bochinis, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Tequila” – Dan + Shay
Songwriters: Dan Smyers / Jordan Reynolds / Nicolle Gaylon

“When I first heard “Tequila” by Dan + Shay I knew it was going to be a huge hit. I have been a fan of them since their Where It All Began days and to see the success and growth they have experienced is truly amazing. Being able to watch and listen to the duo take the CMA Fest stage for the first time ever was something I will never forget. To hear every single person in the stadium sing “Tequila”, the debut single off of their third studio album, was incredible and seeing their faces was priceless. “Tequila” is one of those songs that you just want to drive around with your friends, windows down, and sing at the top of your lungs. Songs like that are the reason I fell in love with country music. There is just something so special about a song that showcases so much talent and Shay’s vocals are truly incredible. “Tequila” is not just the song of the summer, it is the song that will be listened to year after year.”

Kelly Cunningham, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Home and a Hometown” – Hannah Ellis
Songwriters: Hannah Ellis / Mark Trussell / Nicholas Wayne

“”Home And A Hometown” by Hannah Ellis describes my life in a nutshell. Ellis coming out with this track was perfect timing for me.

“One I wanna make it, One I wanna make proud / No matter which one I’m leaving still wanna turn around”

These lyrics could not be more accurate in my life as it is right now. I’m constantly going back and forth from New York to Nashville. It’s comforting knowing I’m not the only one who feels this way. The story behind her lyrics and how she sings it with such emotion is why Ellis is going to be a game-changer in country music.”

Taylor Felvey, Contributing Writer

Pick: “I Can’t Breathe” – Parker McCollum
Songwriters: Parker McCollum / Micky Braun

“Perhaps I’m biased, but the song I love in 2018 comes from Texas native, Parker McCollum. From the opening chords of the guitar to first keys of the piano there is a sound so welcoming and somewhat familiar. I couldn’t stop listening.

McCollum draws you in with his raspy voice making you believe in every word he sings. The song is his explanation of his love of being torn between two things – her and the road. But the road keeps calling. “I’m on the road missin’ home / missin’ the road while I’m home”

He sings about loving and leaving and hoping what he’s doing is enough to keep her. One of the lines sings “I can’t believe you think I’m lyin’ / what are you not buyin’” – take one listen to the soul and the pleading in McCollum’s voice and not only will you buy it, but you’ll have the song on repeat guaranteed!”

Crystal Fenton, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Get Along” – Kenny Chesney
Songwriters: Josh Osborne / Ross Copperman / Shane L McAnally

“I love, love, love Kenny Chesney–his music, his vibe, his love of the sea and island life! It’s hard to pick a favorite song; “Get Along”, off of his latest album Songs for the Saints, really resonates with me. When I heard him say the song’s message is one of taking negative energy and turning it positive, I loved it even more! This is an intention I am always trying to practice; there’s good in any situation, experience, event or person. It’s said attitude is the difference between an ordeal and an adventure, so why not make life one big, happy adventure of love and good energy?! That is what I hear in this song and in Chesney’s voice and why I love it so much!”

Molly Holmberg, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Caught Up in the Country” – Rodney Atkins
Songwriters: Connie Rae Harrington / Jordan Mark Schmidt / Mike Walker

“Rodney Atkins’ infectious “Caught Up in the Country” roped me in at first listen. It is his first single in four years and features the Fisk Jubilee Singers who add their hand clapping and foot stomping to the song for a new kind of rhythm. “Caught Up in the Country” talks about the best parts of country living: being outdoors with endless dirt roads and surrounded by countless stars in the sky. The words hit me directly as it reminded me of my time living in the country and the beauty of it all. Between the dirt roads to the house, green fields surrounding me, and the clearest nights, this song captures it, making me feel as if I was there just by listening to the song.

Atkins says “When I heard ‘Caught Up in the Country’ I just felt like the two things had to come together. It doesn’t sound like anything I’ve recorded or released before and that also excites me.” This song feels like an anthem when it comes on with my friends and family, singing it as loud as we possibly can! While I may not live in the country anymore you can always find me going back to and caught up in it all.”

Nicole Piering, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Why Can’t She” – Adam Craig
Songwriters: Adam Craig / Jon Nite / Matt Rogers

“It was nearly impossible for me to pick my favorite song of 2018 thus far, but as I scrolled through my Spotify playlist listening to some contenders, I kept going back to Adam Craig’s “Why Can’t She.” In my mind, this song is everything that a great country song should be. It tells a powerful story, it has a strong hook and music, and Craig’s vocals are among some of the best in the business. He seriously conveys all of the song’s emotions and sings the heck out of it. I was first introduced to country music by a Rascal Flatts concert in the early-2000’s, and that era of country music is definitely my favorite. This song wouldn’t sound out of place during that time period, which makes me love it all the more.”

Nicole Sellati, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Downtown’s Dead” – Sam Hunt
Songwriters: Josh Osborne / Sam Hunt / Shane L McAnally / Zach Crowell

“Downtown’s Dead” by Sam Hunt is one of my favorite songs of the year so far. It’s one of those songs you can’t help but get stuck in your head and after waiting for what felt like years Hunt finally released a new hit single in May. I’ll admit when I first heard the song I thought it was interesting, but after playing it again I really started to love the vibe “Downtown’s Dead” gave off. The song is different from what plays on country radio and I could see the song branching off to a more pop-friendly radio station. “Downtown’s Dead” has a more modern take on country music than Hunt’s older music. I love when artists take risks to change up their sound and this song makes me excited to see what comes next.”

Danielle Tornatore, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Must’ve Never Met You” – Luke Combs
Songwriters: Jonathan Singleton / Luke Combs / Robert Williford

“There have been countless great songs released in 2018 so far, but there is one in particular that has stood out to me; “Must’ve Never Met You” by Luke Combs. This song was part of his deluxe version of his previous album This One’s for You, released in 2017. There is something about this song that gets me pumped up from the second it starts, from the initial drums to the mini guitar solo. I relate to this song on a personal level, the lyrics are so well written. The clichés he uses in this song are so accurate when you meet somebody that is so special to you, you just cannot seem to get over them. This song is just incredible overall and I hope Combs will add it to his concert setlist in the near future.”

Shanna Vitaliano, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Most People Are Good” – Luke Bryan
Songwriters: David Fraiser / Ed Hill / Josh Kear

“When I listen to “Most People Are Good”, off Luke Bryan’s latest album What Makes You Country, the lyrics take me back to growing up without a care in the world. It is easy to get lost in our day to day busy life, where time can pass us by too quickly. This song creates a sense of simplicity in life, and an optimistic outlook in believing in others with every verse. It reminds us that even with all of the negative news going on around us, there are still people in this world with good intentions. I love this song because the lyrics are a breath of fresh air as it speaks to loving your mother and accepting everyone for who they are. It is the perfect reminder to put aside our differences and appreciate our time here on earth.”

Erica Zisman, Contributing Writer

Pick: “Leaving New Orleans” – Jordan Davis
Songwriters: David Fraiser / Jordan Davis / Lonnie Fowler

“I fell in love with the relatable stories and real-life feelings, at the heart of country music several years ago; however, Jordan Davis and his debut album, Home State recently reignited my passion for all things country music. One of my favorite songs off the album- and this year (so far) is “Leaving New Orleans”. It embodies the art of story-telling and incites emotions in the listener, all wrapped up in a feel-good melody with an unmatchable cool vibe. I have been lucky enough to witness Davis’ magic, as he acoustically played the song, for the first time, with less than 50 people present. These are the little moments I live for- bearing witness to country music magic from up and coming artists, who find a way to pull at your heartstrings and make you feel a part of their story. I encourage any music lover to give “Leaving New Orleans” a listen.”

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