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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!

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Kelsea Ballerini Duets with Shania Twain on “Hole In The Bottle”

Kelsea Ballerini’s new version of her fun song “hole in the bottle” with Shania Twain is available everywhere now, November 13th. The track perfectly combines the two female’s artistry styles. Think of your perfect girls night with just a splash of nostalgia. After a week of teasers on socials, we finally get to hear what they’ve been up to.

This version marks technically the third release of the song, the first being its original release as a single off of the singer’s third studio album, kelsea, and the second being the re-imagined version on her fourth album ballerini, her previous albums second half.

To no surprise at all, the Ballerini-Twain collab is everything we had hoped for and more! Their voices layered together show off the very best of each of their styles that we love so much. You can imagine how much fun they must have had singing together, especially if a bottle was in fact involved, by the friendly back and forth convo that was placed in the middle of the song. Of course, some classic Shania one-liners were thrown in there too. 

“Let’s go / Alright / Look, it’s our prerogative / to have a little fun? / Right? / Right! / Ooh, just look at that hole in the bottle / I’m gonna go get us another one / You go, girl”

The two superstars had been throwing teasers of a collab all week on their socials, but the rumors all clicked during Ballerini’s CMA performance of “Hole in the Bottle” Wednesday night.

The first hint came a week ago when Ballerini posted a photo wearing cow print boots with the caption “whose bed have your boots been underrrr”, where Twain commented, “I just came here to unwind and have one drink”. A few days later, she posted another picture with the caption “the prerogative to have a little fun”, where Twain commented, “Let’s go girl”. Finally, a day before the CMA awards, both women posted a TikTok of each of them sitting on their couches, both in big boots, to the intro of “Man! I feel like a woman”.

The rumors all made sense once Ballerini performed at the 54th Annual CMA Awards. Her black tie-themed jumpsuit and black top hat gave off a very “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” vibe. Although, this wouldn’t have necessarily given it away considering this matched one of the looks she wore in the music video for the song. However, the singer-songwriter has said that the particular look highlighted in the video was in fact an ode to her hero,  Shania. If the upcoming collab wasn’t obvious solely from the look, it certainly was once she threw the iconic “let’s go girls” into the mic at the end of the song.

Just a few minutes after Ballerini’s CMA performance, she posted on Instagram and Twitter the photo cover for the single with the caption “time to spill the wine…hole in the bottle with @ShaniaTwain…”, officially announcing what the two had been hinting at all week long. As did Shania, saying “we’re leakin’ all this wine…”.

Back in 2016 during a Teen Vogue interview, Ballerini called Twain her biggest influence. She certainly follows in her footsteps as a country-pop female artist that crosses genre lines. Ballerini also considers Britney Spears and Taylor Swift to be strong influences of hers, perfectly blending her up-beat pop sounds with her country story-telling writing.

The bonafide star definitely picked the right song to be her first drinking song, as it continues to be successful through several versions and is now the reason she can say she shares a song with her idol.

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

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To keep up with Shania Twain, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

“hole in the bottle” 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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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:

Reese Witherspoon, Kelsea Ballerini, and Shay Mooney Exchange Tweets

Reese Witherspoon, Kelsea Ballerini, and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay exchanged a series of tweets during the 2020 ACM Awards and it is absolutely hilarious.

After Day + Shay gave a chilling performance of their current single “I Should Probably Go To Bed”, Ballerini tweeted “If a genie ever came into my life, I’d spend all 3 wishes on having the vocal control and range of Shay Mooney. GOOD LORD.”

Mooney quoted the tweet, replying “Haha!!! Love you Kelsea Ballerini!! You da best. Thank you”.

Reese Witherspoon Kelsea Ballerini Tweets

But that’s not where the compliments ended. The following day, A-list actress Reese Witherspoon took to Twitter with a series of thoughtful tweets surrounding the awards show. Quoting Ballerini’s performance from the ACM Awards Twitter account, she added, “You were INCREDIBLE!!”

That’s when Mooney got back on the social media platform and things got even better. Quoting Witherspoon’s tweet, he added, “And you’re friends with Reese (Witherspoon) which makes you way cooler than me. That would be my genie wish.”

Reese Witherspoon Shay Mooney Kelsea Ballerini Tweets

Nearly two hours later, Witherspoon replied saying, “Shay Mooney… let’s be friends!  BBQ when quarantine ends?

Who doesn’t want to be friends with Reese Witherspoon? Mooney quickly replied to her tweet adding, “Yes!!! That sounds like a plan to me! I’ll bring the drinks!”

Reese Witherspoon Shay Mooney Kelsea Ballerini Tweets

We are already fans of this new friendship! Of course, we have to know… will Mooney bring *Tequila* to Witherspoon’s bbq?

While quarantine has been quiet for some, Reese Witherspoon, Dan + Shay, and Kelsea Ballerini have all kept extremely busy. Witherspoon recently announced she would be executive producing a brand new country music competition show, “My Kind Of Country”. After recently announcing the rescheduled show dates from their 2020 Tour, Dan + Shay are busy working on new music and promoting their current single “I Should Probably Go To Bed”. Ballerini released a brand new reimagined album, ballerini, the follow-up to kelsea.

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

To keep up with Reese Witherspoon, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Keep up with Dan + Shay on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram.
For Kelsea Ballerini, follow her 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.

—————————-

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: Kelsea Ballerini ‘ballerini’

Kelsea Ballerini new album

On March 20th, Kelsea Ballerini put out her third studio album, kelsea, a project full of life and created to be sung loud at parties and arena concerts. She had so many plans that went hand-in-hand with that release, and when everything was put on pause, those plans were put on hold. While a fantastic record, the singer-songwriter decided she wanted to reimagine the songs and dive even deeper into the writing itself, so she released a new version of the album titled ballerini on September 11th.

“overshare”, which was a smooth, pop-country jam on kelsea is now a groovy, folksy, and even stronger album opener. This time around, with a few lyrical and melodic changes that make you want to play it on repeat, it feels back-porch personal, which is the very intent of ballerini.

“Yeah I know there are moments that I’m missing / If I’d just shut up and listen, but /
Silence makes me scared / So then I overshare,” she sings over a catchy guitar.

“club” and “the way i used to” are examples of big, arena tour-ready songs that are turned into gorgeous piano ballads. Lyrically, they always captured some of the insecurities that come with being young and going out, but now they feel like you’ve stayed up too late and you’re too in your head.

“love me like a girl” is a stunning, perfectly quiet moment. On the new version, Ballerini leaves space and uses her voice as an instrument. Harmonies and serene guitars surround the song in a perfectly understated way, making it all about the lyrics.

“I wish you could get inside my head/Baby, maybe then, you’d understand/It doesn’t mean that you’re not my whole world/But I wish you could love me like a girl.” 

“bragger”, “hole in the bottle” and “love and hate” are three of the most country songs, and particularly on “love and hate” does Ballerini show off her Knoxville roots. “needy” and “half of my hometown” stay true to their original form, but because of the production choices, listeners are really able to focus on what she’s saying and how great of a writer she truly is.

Ballerini worked with longtime friend and frequent kelsea collaborator Jimmy Robbins to complete and produce the album together. They made a soulful, subtle record that really allows fans to dig into who Kelsea Ballerini is at the core.

ballerini proves that often times, artists don’t need all the bells and whistles and glitter that surround music today. At least if you can tell a story in the way Kelsea Ballerini can. If kelsea was self-aware, ballerini is all about intuition. We’ve met the colorful, vibrant Kelsea, but now we’ve formally met the girl behind the songs. Nice to really meet you again, Kelsea Ballerini.

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

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

ballerini 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.

 

ballerini TRACKLIST

1.     overshare (ballerini album version)
2.     club (ballerini album version)
3.     homecoming queen? (ballerini album version)
4.     the other girl (ballerini album version)
5.     love me like a girl (ballerini album version)
6.     love and hate (ballerini album version)
7.     bragger (ballerini album version)
8.     hole in the bottle (ballerini album version)
9.     half of my hometown (ballerini album version)
10.  the way i used to (ballerini album version)
11.  needy (ballerini album version)
12.  a country song (ballerini album version)
13.  la (ballerini album version)

 

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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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

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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,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

Kelsea Ballerini Announces New Album + Releases “club (ballerini album version)”

Kelsea Ballerini new album

When the world paused about six months ago, two-time GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter, Kelsea Ballerini released her junior self-titled album, kelsea. Putting music out in a time where everything is uncertain was a risk, but it paid off for Ballerini. It became her highest debut on the Top Country Album Charts, and fans and critics alike praised the body of work. Quarantine tested a lot of people and their creativity, and for Ballerini, it meant reimagining the record she poured her heart into.

Now, the songstress is cleverly releasing the follow-up album, ballerini. The album is set to release September 11th, just over a year after kelsea’s lead single, “homecoming queen?” was revealed. It’s the second half of her story, the more vulnerable and honest sister to kelsea. “kelsea is glitter: bold and effervescent and dreams that are boundless. She’s who I want to be. While ballerini is emotional, vulnerable, soft: observes her surroundings and chooses her words carefully. She’s who I am,” Ballerini explained in a statement. “The album ballerini is the result of the wonder and gets down to the heart of it.”

To introduce fans into this new sound, she released the new version of “club”. What was once a poppy, empowering jam is still those things – only it is now more introspective and soul-baring. On the original track, she sounds more confident, more unapologetic, whereas on ballerini, you can hear the other side of the coin, where she really second-guesses that feeling of staying in instead of going out. It’s a stunning arrangement of piano, three-part harmonies and practically untouched vocals throughout. If “club” kelsea is midnight, “club” ballerini is 2am — heightened feelings and insecurities that take over your mind.

This project is a reminder that Kelsea Ballerini is a songwriter/producer first. The glitter and the lights are fun, glamorous, and freeing, but the quiet is just as powerful, sophisticated, and meaningful. It’s exciting to see her in this new way, and it will be thrilling to hear her new vision come to life.

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

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“club (ballerini album version)” 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.

 

ballerini TRACKLIST – Out 9/11/20

1.     overshare (ballerini album version)
2.     club (ballerini album version)
3.     homecoming queen? (ballerini album version)
4.     the other girl (ballerini album version)
5.     love me like a girl (ballerini album version)
6.     love and hate (ballerini album version)
7.     bragger (ballerini album version)
8.     hole in the bottle (ballerini album version)
9.     half of my hometown (ballerini album version)
10.  the way i used to (ballerini album version)
11.  needy (ballerini album version)
12.  a country song (ballerini album version)
13.  la (ballerini album version)

 

—————

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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

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Kelsea Ballerini & Halsey Collaborate on CMT Crossroads

On the heels of the release of her studio album entitled kelsea, country’s princess Kelsea Ballerini joined pop superstar Halsey on stage for an episode of CMT Crossroads. Filmed at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater in October 2019, the two powerhouses performed for a live crowd, while rain poured down, almost threatening cancellation. Luckily the show went on, and boy are we thankful it did!

Perfectly paired the two even share a song on Ballerini’s new record. The songstresses performed that tune, “the other girl,” trading verses to the impactful song. The new duet tells the story of solidarity among two women who are seemingly dating the same man, who is cheating on them both.

Ballerini and Halsey join forces on several of their songs, during the course of the night, including a rendition of Ballerini’s “Peter Pan” and the inspiring “homecoming queen.” Ballerini also lends her vocals to Halsey’s hit “Bad At Love,” a song about problematic relationships, as well as, “Graveyard” and “Without Me.”

Just prior to performing ‘homecoming queen,” Halsey praised Ballerini for bringing the song to life. “If there is anything song that I wish I wrote,” she said, “ it is “homecoming queen” by Kelsea Ballerini!” Of course, fans erupted into cheers, as the two singers went on to sing the heartfelt ballad.

On the contrary, during Halsey’s songs, the two singer-songwriters jammed out and showed off their sassy style. Both performances of “Bad At Love” and “Graveyard” were highlights of their creative and fun set. The same energy was applied to their rendition of Ballerini’s “Miss Me More.”

Another highlight came when the two ladies gave a dazzling cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” Their vocals shined on the mesmerizing tune. It was almost hard to believe that it wasn’t an original.

Overall, once again Crossroads delivered a special and enticing combination of two top-notch songstresses in the music industry. Halsey and Kelsea are true superstars, and we hope to see them perform together again in the future.

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

To keep up with Halsey follow her on Instagram, Twitter, 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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NYCS First Impression Kelsea Ballerini Releases ‘kelsea’

kelsea

Some might say a debut album is most important; it’s the introduction. Some might say the sophomore album is most crucial; it’s where you prove you survived the “slump”. But perhaps an artists’ third album is the most prominent. It’s where an artist really comes into themselves and their sound. Kelsea Ballerini’s new album, kelsea, proves to be just that: self-aware.

“I had to get to know myself at 26 and realize that I’m not the same person who wrote the first or second albums,” Ballerini told The Washington Post. “I still have bits of that confidence and that swagger in this album. But it’s definitely paired with a lot more truth-telling.”

The opener is “overshare”, where Ballerini sings, “Momma says, that I never met a stranger/Strange thing is everybody’s strangers”. All about sharing a little too much, it takes on a similar approach to Thomas Rhett’s “Life Changes”. She paints the picture with humorous anecdotes and is sure not to take herself too seriously. Ballerini wrote the track with Jesse Frasure (a writer on “Life Changes”), Josh Osborne and Tayla Parx. As she explains all of this, she continues to overshare, even if it’s “TMI”.

Insecurity and reflection anchor both sides of the record. On songs like “needy” and “love me like a girl”, she dives into the feeling of being secure enough as an individual to need her significant other. “You’ve never needed anybody, but now you need me/I was the same/But things have changed/I’m needy.” She has established boundaries, and she knows when she wants to change them. The previously released “homecoming queen” served as the lead single and is a refreshing and beautifully simple take on self-worth.

A standout on the record is the heart-wrenching ballad “love and hate”. Penned by Ballerini, Ross Copperman, and Ed Sheeran, the track is about how humans walk the line between love and hate. Her vocals are stunning, and the harmonic strings soar throughout, making for a pixelating experience.

Ballerini has two collaborations on kelsea, one with indie-popstar Halsey and the other with legendary country superstar Kenny Chesney. “the other girl” is a glitzy and ominous story about two girls figuring out which one is the “other girl” in their shared partner’s mind. “I bet you’re bold/I bet that’s why/You seem to occupy his mind/I bet you’re smart/But do you know about me?” Ballerini sings on the first verse. What’s special about it is that neither girl blames the other, and neither is bitter – it’s simply introspective. Ballerini and Halsey’s voices blend well together, creating a sound that is equal parts curious and hurt.

“half of my hometown” is the moment on kelsea. It’s an ode to Ballerini’s hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee, and and pays homage to those who are as lost as they are found about where they stand as they grow up. In both “la” and “half of my hometown”, Ballerini seems to be pulled in two different directions. It was written in Florida with the incredible Nicolle Galyon, Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman and Jimmy Robbins (the fivesome now calls their writing group The Wet Dandelions, according to Ballerini’s live stream). Chesney, a Knoxville-native as well, appeared on Ballerini’s live stream March 19th to discuss his connection to the song. “It spoke to me in a lot of ways… [reminded me] of how I grew up, the streets I drove down, because, when I listened to that song and it just reminded me so much of my own family, the struggles I experienced when I first left,” Chesney explained. This reflects perfectly in the slow, nostalgic guitar-driven tune. “The other half of my hometown/They all got out/Some went north/Some went south/Still lookin’ for a feelin’ half of us ain’t found/So stay or leave/Part of me will always be/Half of my hometown”. Regardless if this becomes a single, this will always be a pivotal part of Ballerini’s catalog in years to come.

“la” wraps the album up, which is a deeply personal poem-set-to-music that Ballerini wrote herself. What’s special about Ballerini as a songwriter is that everyone can find their story within hers. It extends beyond universality – she is just like the rest of us. In a song like “la”, you can hear her struggle, and it’s so easy to empathize with.

Ballerini notes several times throughout the album that she always has something to say. Sometimes it’s to the wrong people at the right time. But often, it’s coming straight from her heart and it needs to be said. She’s as glittery and envelope-pushing as she is transparent and sincere creating the perfect balance. She’s found her way, and now she wants to re-introduce herself to you. On that note, it’s nice to meet you again, Kelsea.

kelsea by Kelsea Ballerini Tracklist:

overshare
club
homecoming queen?
the other girl (with Halsey)
love me like a girl
love and hate
bragger
hole in the bottle
half of my hometown (feat. Kenny Chesney)
the way I used to
needy
a country song
la

NYCS Staff Picks:

love and hate
half of my hometown
the way i used to
needy

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

kelsea 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.

—————

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

Women Who Inspire Us: Nashville Edition

March is the month dedicated to women, and it’s a month with so much to celebrate within the country music community. Right now, two solo women occupy spots in the top 10 on radio, which is a rare feat in this genre; Kelsea Ballerini, Ingrid Andress, and more are set to release highly anticipated LPs in the coming weeks; and on March 8th, which is International Women’s Day, NYCountry Swag is hosting its Babes, Booze & Brunch event featuring Songs & Daughters’ Madison Kozak, an event for women celebrating women. In honor of all of the amazing women making waves in country music, we compiled a list of our favorite women who are ruling Nashville and beyond from center stage and backstage.

 

  1. Leslie Fram

Leslie Fram, senior VP of Music Strategy at CMT is one of the most influential and incredible women in country music. She has dedicated her career to promoting all artists, no matter their gender, race, or sexuality and help them to succeed in this genre. She has helped initiatives like CMT Next Women of Country, Change the Conversation and #EqualPlay launch and is continuing to introduce change so great music can be heard. Read more about Leslie Fram and her initiatives in our Woman of the Month feature and find her here on Instagram and Twitter.

 

  1. Mickey Guyton

Mickey Guyton is not only one of the best singer-songwriters to come out of Nashville, but she has also made it her mission to use her platform to help people. She is a woman of color and is actively helping country music become more diverse. She makes sure to post her #WCWs and incredible clips of songs written/sung by black women, using the hashtag #blackgirlsrock, every week. Her new single, “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?” is a stunning, gut-wrenching plea to society that all women can relate to, and it’s a song so good radio should be lined up ready to play it. Guyton is proving that it’s her time to shine and that 2020 is the year of women. Keep up with her on Instagram and Twitter.

Kelly Ford Women

  1. Kelly Ford

Kelly Ford is one of the morning radio hosts at NY’s Country 94.7 and is not only so fun to listen to on-air, but she has used her platform to do incredible things. In February, she spearheaded a campaign to get Valentine’s Day Cards to the troops, helped host a radiothon for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, where they raised over $400,000 and has been vocal about increasing airplay for women on country radio. She is one of the voices of the tri-state area, but she uses it to help the world beyond New York. Read more about Kelly Ford and her journey into radio in our Woman of the Month feature, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter here.

 

  1. Savana Santos

Savana Santos is a part of the girl-trio Avenue Beat, and the three girls have created a fresh take on country-pop, using the lyrics to be relatable and the production to get the songs stuck in your head forever. Not only does Santos have a hand in writing all of their songs, but she is responsible for the production of all of them too. There are very few women who sit in the producer’s chair right now, and it’s inspiring to see that a new generation is taking charge. You can find Santos on Instagram, and you can find Avenue Beat here.

  1. Hailey Whitters

Hailey Whitters is one of Nashville’s brightest rising stars. She just finished touring with Maren Morris and is currently touring with Jordan Davis in support of her debut album The Dream, which she helped produce, and is making singer-songwriter leaning country in a genre that’s very pop-leaning currently. She does all of this while being unsigned, which is rare in a radio-driven genre. She is an incredible songwriter and has a beautiful voice, and it’s about time people start to remember her name. To keep up with Whitters, follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

 

  1. Laura Veltz

When you look at the CMA Triple Play award recipients this year, you will find that each winner has something in common: they are all men. It’s crazy to see that list, because there are so many amazing women making ground-breaking music, and one of them is Laura Veltz. She is the writer behind songs like “Speechless” (Dan + Shay) and “The Bones” (Maren Morris) to name a few and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-out songwriters in town. Next year without a doubt her name be up on that list where it belongs. You can find her here on Instagram.

 

  1. Kelsea Ballerini

Who has time to headline arenas, be a member of the Grand Ole Opry, write amazing songs and still make sure her voice is heard in country music? That would be Kelsea Ballerini, who is about to release her third album, kelsea, on March 20th. She has been one of the genre’s most prominent stars in the last few years, and she has been making history and great records while fighting for equal play and learning how to get involved with current issues that are important to her, like the fires in Australia or stricter gun laws in America. She’s using her voice for herself and those who feel silenced. Make sure you’re following Ballerini on Instagram and Twitter.

 

  1. Nicolle Galyon

Last but certainly not least on this list is Nicolle Galyon. She is an award-winning and chart-topping singer-songwriter, responsible for hits like “Tequila” (Dan + Shay) and “Automatic” (Miranda Lambert); she has a three-song EP, featuring songs like Lady Antebellum’s “It Ain’t Pretty”; and Galyon is also a label executive for her all-female record label Songs & Daughters. She discovered and signed Madison Kozak, who will be performing at NY Country Swag’s Babes, Booze & Brunch event this Sunday. She is soon launching her own podcast, and without a doubt holds the title for Instagram Mom of the Year. She is the definition of an inspiring woman ruling country music. Follow her on Instagram to keep up with all things songwriting and Songs & Daughters.

Tickets are still available for  Babes, Booze & Brunch and we’d love to celebrate International Women’s Day with you!

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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

Kelsea Ballerini Releases Vibrant Drinking Song “hole in the bottle”

 

Kelsea Hole in the Bottle

It’s a crazy season for new music, and Kelsea Ballerini is spearheading it, preparing to release her third studio album, kelsea, out March 20th. Ahead of its release, Ballerini surprised fans by releasing “hole in the bottle”, first heard at Amazon’s “Country Heat” CRS showcase. It’s a fun, vibrant drinking song that shows off her songwriting chops as well as her vocals.

“hole in the bottle” was written by Ballerini, Hillary Lindsey, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, and Steph Jones. The song begins with a clever sample all about alcohol. “There are many people who drink in moderation with no problems, social, moral or medical,” a woman’s voice says. “They learn to enjoy liquor without letting it upset the functioning of their body and mind.” Ballerini concludes, “I just had one sip!” and laughs as the beat drops and the guitar starts sliding and the drums start slapping.

Lyrically and melodically, “hole in the bottle” is smart and catchy. It’s easy to start singing along to, and the words prove that Ballerini isn’t afraid to have fun and she doesn’t always take herself too seriously. In the first verse, she describes going out to forget an ex and let go. “The way it looks / ain’t what you think / This cabernet has a way of vanishin’ on me,” she sings casually. Part of what makes this song so enjoyable is how ear-pleasing it is. Melodically, it hits each note you want it to, but lyrically, you don’t necessarily know where it’s going to go. “There’s a hole in the bottle / Leakin’ all this wine / It’s already empty and it ain’t even suppertime,” she sings on the chorus nonchalantly. At the very end of the song, the sample returns, simply saying, “She has abused her system and she’s paying for it.” It sums up the whole song perfectly and makes Ballerini seem just like anybody else: someone who sometimes gets lost in a wine glass.

The production on this song is unlike anything fans have heard before. Ballerini produced it with Frasure, and they created this neo-country-pop jam, making it sound new and vintage at the same time. The electric guitars have honky-tonk undertones that make it sound tipsy, which plays on the lyrics perfectly. It’s an ode to tradition as well as the new country generation that Ballerini is a part of.

Ballerini has released a diverse range of singles leading up to the release of kelsea, but they all cohesively follow a theme of self-awareness. The nine remaining tracks are out March 20th, and the album is available for pre-order now.

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Make sure to check out kelsea, out March 20th.

“hole in the bottle” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen 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.

—————

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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

—————————-

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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Kelsea Ballerini Releases “la” and New Album Details

Kelsea Ballerini la

Every album Kelsea Ballerini has released so far has had a solo-write. The First Time had “First Time”, Unapologetically had “High School”, and kelsea, Ballerini’s third album due March 20th now has “la”. The latter was released today as an instant-grat track to celebrate the news of her upcoming record.

“I’ve got a love and hate relationship with LA”, she sings on the first line that doubles as the hook. It instantly grabs your attention, because it’s clear that she’s about to tell a story.

And she does. It’s the story of a girl who loves the city lights but misses home/Nashville. In California, she plays dress-up, debates calling famous friends, and questions if she’ll be invited to the party. It’s this tug of war feeling like she’s not cool enough to be in her own shoes and feeling like LA is her place. Each time she dips her toe into the ocean or takes a step onto a red carpet, however, she finds herself looking at real estate and falling in love with the red sunsets.

The storyline is so compelling because of its overall relatability. It’s about anxiety and navigation, and how to find your place in a world that feels so foreign. The bridge of the song is where it all comes together brilliantly. “Sometimes it feels like it’s all real but nothing here is as it seems,” she sings softly. “I ask myself, does it feed my soul or my anxiety / Carpet’s red, ego’s fed, but it’s myself that I have to face / I’ve got a love and hate relationship with LA”.

Vocally, Ballerini’s performance is beautiful. She sings delicately and honestly as if reading an entry from her diary. Technically she is. “It’s the most vulnerable thing I’ve publically shared,” she said on Instagram. “It came out as a stream of consciousness that fell into the form of a poem.”

Ballerini produced the song with Jimmy Robbins, who co-wrote and co-produced her last two singles. Together, they have created a sound that is guitar-heavy and stacks of vocals and harmonies. It’s memorable and distinctive, and perfectly reflects the vibe of the song.

“la” is the 13th and final track off kelsea, and it makes sense that it is. It tells Ballerini’s whole story, which is that she’s as lost as she is found. Each song that’s been released from this project so far has said the same thing: that she’s human. It’s a new year, a new decade, and a new Kelsea.

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, you can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Her new album kelsea is out March 20th, and you can pre-order it here.

“la” 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.

—————

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: