King Calaway Archives

King Calaway: ‘Tennessee’s Waiting’ Album Review

August 4, 2023/in Blog, New Music, News /by Nicole Piering

King Calaway share their new album, Tennessee’s Waiting, out now, August 4th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new record below.

Since bursting onto the music scene with their 2019 album, Rivers, King Calaway has been one of music’s hottest new acts. Now, the quartet is back with their sophomore album on BBR Music, Tennessee’s Waiting.

For the band, comprised of Chris Deaton, Simon Dumas, Chad Michael Jervis, and Caleb Miller, the album shows their evolution as individual artists and as a band. Produced by Zac Brown and featuring collaborations with Hailey Whitters and Marcus King, the LP continues to mix incredible harmonies with powerful lyrics and intoxicating melodies.

“It’s been 4 years now since the release of our debut album, in that time, we’ve experienced a lot of change and growth as individuals and as a band,” revealed the band in a statement. “Our style and approach to music has evolved. We became stronger songwriters and performers, and we’ve finally made Tennessee feel like home. It felt right for us to name this record ‘Tennessee’s Waiting’ because of the connection we’ve made to our new home and the communities within. This album tells our stories the best way we can, and we’re excited to finally share it with the world.”

The album is a solid mix of sixteen new songs, ranging from the uber anthemic country pop of “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” to the introspective and bombastic Little Big Town-esque “Ease My Troubled Mind” and from the stirring longing-for home title track to the ode to young love featuring Hailey Whitters on “Let It Flow.”

There’s also a stirring cover of the Vince Gill classic “When I Call Your Name,” that doesn’t stray too far from the original, in a good way. While the falsetto-laden Gill classic is a masterpiece, King Calaway’s version is punctuated by the quartet’s stunning harmonies, especially on the track’s latter half.

Collaborations are also a highlight of the album, including Marcus King on the moody “Heathen,” Whitters on the aforementioned “Let It Flow,” and Brown on the stunning “When I Get Home.” The Brown collab features the singer’s distinct voice on the second verse, elevating an already incredible song even further. In fact, the song would not have sounded out of place on a ZBB album, building to a powerful bridge remnant of hits like “Colder Weather” or “Free.”

The pairing with Marcus King is also an unexpected gem, allowing the guys of King Calaway to explore a darker and moodier sound as they proclaim “You’re just a heathen.” The bluesy anthem features a blistering guitar solo from King, and some incredible female background vocals, hearkening back to some of Eric Church’s most incredible live moments.

Conversely, “Dive Bar” is an airy and lush dose of optimism, finding them longing for a world that’s more like a local haunt. “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all get together on a Saturday night?” They ask, longing for a place of inclusion and acceptance where people “Might walk in as strangers // we walk out friends // We find we’re not as different as we think we are // If this world was a dive bar.”

Anthemic pop-leaning up-tempo songs include “Hometown Night,” “High Cost of Loving You,” “Best Thing About Me Now,” and “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band),” which the group reveals is especially electric. “It’s one of our favorites to play live because the crowd’s energy and reaction to it is just unmatched. We had a great time laying it down in the studio and experimenting with some Steve Miller inspired sounds.

Likewise, “Best Thing About Me Now” is chock full of catchy melodies and upbeat instrumentation, as they celebrate someone special. “When you came around, my life turned around,” They sing. “The best thing about me now is you.”

Breakups are also a theme that pervade tracks like “What I Know Now,” which find the foursome grappling with hindsight, while “Denim Jacket” has them asking for their things back after a relationship ends, save for one special memento.

“The Other Half” is an especially great moment, a moody ballad that finds them torn between longing and moving on. “I think we’ve all had someone in our lives that we’ve thought we’ve moved on from, but a part of us was still holding on for dear life. ‘The Other Half’ is about that feeling,” shares Jervis. “Recording this one came so naturally because we knew how we wanted it to sound from the start. Combining our influences of bands like the Eagles to adding big guitar solos and a wall of harmonies and acoustic guitars, we wanted to do the most we could on this one and just have fun. I think you can hear that on the record.”

The album’s closing track, “The Dash,” is also an introspective gem, looking back at one’s life as it comes to an end. “‘Cause when the good Lord calls me home // and it’s just me and my restless soul // waiting up there by the pearly gates // when they carve my name in stone // and they plant that rock upon my bones // I won’t give a damn about the dates,” They harmonize gorgeously. “It ain’t the day that I was born or the day that I passed // It’s all the living that I did in the dash.”

On Tennessee’s Waiting, King Calaway continues to show why they’ve repeatedly been named one of country music’s artists to watch. With their unique and stellar harmonies, introspective lyrics, and earwormy melodies, there’s no sign of a sophomore slump here.

Country Swag Picks

I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)
When I Get Home
Ease My Troubled Mind
The Other Half
Let It Flow
Heathen

Tennessee’s Waiting Tracklist:

Best Thing About Me Now (Simon Dumas, Dave Cohen, Shane Stevens, Brandon Day)
Let It Flow (feat. Hailey Whitters) (Connor Smith, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jonathan Singleton)
High Cost of Loving You (Jaren Johnston, Brandy Clark)
California Gold (Simon Dumas, Caleb Miller, Kevin Griffin)
Denim Jacket (Simon Dumas, Chad Michael Jervis, Seth Mosley)
Tennessee’s Waiting (Chad Michael Jervis, Chris Deaton, Caleb Miller, Adam Craig)
Hometown Night (Simon Dumas, Seth Mosley, Chris Tompkins)
Ease My Troubled Mind (Chris Deaton, Makayla Lynn Parry, Bay Simpson)
When I Get Home (feat. Zac Brown) (Zac Brown, Jonathan Singleton, Ben Simonetti)
The Other Half (Chad Michael Jervis, Phil Barton, Seth Mosley)
When I Call Your Name (Vince Gill, Tim Dubois)
I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band) (Wendell Mobley, Chris Stevens, Neil Thrasher)
Dive Bar (Simon Dumas, Justin Morgan, Lonnie Fowler)
What I Know Now (Reid Isbell, Jacob Lutz, Daniel Ross)
Heathen (feat. Marcus King) (Chad Michael Jervis, Chris Deaton, Caleb Miller, Ellis Melillo)
The Dash (Chad Michael Jervis, Logan Wall, Drew Kennedy)

King Calaway’s new album, ‘Tennessee’s Waiting’ is out now on all streaming platforms.

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

King Calaway will be joining the Zac Brown Band for their From the Fire tour, with stops at Long Island’s Jones Beach on September 16 and 17. For more tour dates, visit the band’s website here.

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Tennessee’s Waiting is out 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.

King Calaway Shares New Song “The Other Half” Ahead of Upcoming Album

July 7, 2023/in Blog, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

King Calaway’s new song “The Other Half” is out now, July 7th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

Country music’s boy band, King Calaway are proving that 2023 is their year. With an album coming out later this summer, and a new song released just last month called, “Tennessee’s Waiting,” the foursome are showing no signs of slowing down. Today, King Calaway is giving fans another song to be excited about. “The Other Half” is officially out now.

While “Tennessee’s Waiting” was a nostalgic song that was a true love letter to Tennessee, “The Other Half” depicts how it feels to be torn in two post-break up. King Calaway sings about a broken heart with such conviction and relatability. While the vocals and the harmonies are impressive, it’s the incredible instrumental arrangement and catchy wordplay that truly steals the show.

If “Tennessee’s Waiting” and “The Other Half” are any inclination of what the album will be like, fans are in for a real treat. King Calaway are a their absolute best right now, and have the potential to hit it big upon album release! It is clear that the band members have put their heart and soul into this upcoming project, and these songs are just the beginning of the magic that is in store for all of us.

King Calaway shares new song, “The Other Half,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“The Other Half” 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.

King Calaway Drops New Song “Tennessee’s Waiting” Out Now

June 9, 2023/in Blog, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

King Calaway’s new song “Tennessee’s Waiting” is out now, June 9th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

Country music’s boy band, King Calaway are back with a brand new song. On their new track the group worked with headliner, Zac Brown (Zac Brown Band) again to create something magical. The foursome have a knack for creating music that is as heartfelt as songs come. Today, their new song, “Tennessee’s Waiting” fits the bill.

“Tennessee’s Waiting” is a beautiful song that personifies the state of Tennessee. In addition, vocally the band creates harmonies like no other. King Calaway bring forth the message that our hometowns or homes away from home are always waiting for us, when we are ready to come back. While the boys of King Calaway may have different hometowns, it is clear that Tennessee has become a special place for all of them.

“Tennesee’s waiting // She always saves me // She takes me back with open arms, my guiding light when it’s getting dark // When I’m gone too long and the road starts to change me // Tennessee’s waiting // No matter what state I’m in // I’m always in that state of mind // I’ve got one more show // I’ve got one more drive // Tennessee’s waiting”

King Calaway has always been something special, and this song is one of their best yet. “Tennessee’s Waiting” is a true-blue country song that should be added to everyone’s music library ASAP!

King Calaway shares new song, “Tennessee’s Waiting,” out now on all streaming platforms.

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

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“Tennessee’s Waiting” 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.

King Calaway Releases New Song “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)”

September 30, 2022/in Blog, New Music, News /by Erica Zisman

King Calaway’s new song, “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band),” is out now, September 30th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

One of country music’s most promising new bands, King Calaway are back to entertain their growing fanbase. Known for their electric harmonies and fun-loving sound, King Calaway’s new song certainly delivers. King Calaway officially releases “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” in honor of Steve Miller Band’s frontman’s birthday.

An ode to the many Steve Miller Band anthems, King Calaway does them justice by creating a song that would fit in effortlessly. The incredibly fun jam is all about having a good time, celebrating life and its moments, and being present. The song is the perfect one to take us from summer and into the fall season. You cannot help but smile when you hear this absolute anthem of a song!

“I’m feeling good // Ain’t got no plans // Only place I wanna be is right where I am // Rockin’ my baby // With a drink in my hand // To ‘rock’n me baby’ // Steve Miller Band”

The sky is the limit for King Calaway! Over their blossoming career, the foursome have hit new highs with each new release. “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” is another great song to add to their growing catalog.

King Calaway’s new song, “I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” is out now.

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

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“I’m Feelin’ Good (Steve Miller Band)” 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.

King Calaway Debuts New Song “When I Get Home”

June 10, 2022/in Blog, New Music, News /by Dylan Bestler

King Calaway’ s new song, “When I Get Home” is out now, June 10th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.

King Calaway broke out onto the music scene with their debut record Rivers in 2019, setting the stage for other country groups like Restless Road, CB30, and On the Outside that rely on melodic harmonies to create their sound. Since their debut release, the group shifted through several changes, including members leaving the group, and trying out new sounds through various new project releases. Now, ten months after their last release, Midnight, the quartet teamed up with multi-platinum artist, Zac Brown for their most recent track “When I Get Home,” co-written and produced by Brown himself.

“I recognized the talent this young group has and when we started working in the studio so much more unfolded, and I believe in these guys,” Brown exclusively told People. “When Keith Stegall bet on me and helped me make my first album that was the launch of my career. I believe this track can do the same for them, and it’s great to be able to give back.”

Rivers and Midnight leaned heavily on the pop side of production, but “When I Get Home” has a much simpler melody over an acoustic guitar. This song features a man owning up to his past mistakes and longing for another chance. He regrets leaving his woman in the first place and hopes that when he arrives back at her place, the light is on and she is waiting for him. The group once again demonstrates its peaceful harmonies all throughout the track. An orchestra comes in during the bridge, adding extra theatrics to the story.

“I really love producing people that have the talent and the hustle to make it out there,” Brown continued. “This is an exceptional group of guys. I’m very proud of what we have written and made. Lots to come from King Calaway.”

King Calaway debuts new song, “When I Get Home,” out now.

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

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“When I Get Home” 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.

King Calaway: ‘Midnight’ – EP Review

August 27, 2021/in Blog, First Impression, New Music, News /by Dylan Bestler

King Calaway’s new EP, Midnight is out now, August 27th on all streaming platforms. Check out our full review and listen to the brand new music below.

After nearly a two-year hiatus, boyband turned country group, King Calaway has released brand new music; their four-track extended play titled Midnight is out now, August 27th on all streaming platforms via Stoney Creek Records.

King Calaway is a 5-piece band comprised of original members Caleb Miller, Chris Deaton, Simon Dumas, Chad Michael Jervis, and Austin Luther. They made a splash into the country music scene when they released their debut project Rivers (produced by Ross Copperman and Robert Deaton) in October of 2019. The project featured a mix of romantic love songs, agonizing heartbreak ballads, and fun, pop-inspired tracks, including the top 50 single “World For Two.” The group brings the same energy and vibe with these four new tracks, “Homegrown,” “More People,” “Heartbreaker,” and “Good Time To Me.”

King Calaway tried something on this EP that they didn’t on their debut album; write their own songs. Chad Michael Jervis penned the first track, “Homegrown,” with Kevin Griffin. In this southern-rock anthem, the singer proclaims he can’t wait to head home to his girl after a long time away. The bridge features an extended electric guitar solo.

“Yeah it’s been a long road, need a little homegrown // Little bit of you is all I really need, some of that small-town company // Got a southern summer night, where you dance to make a fuse ignite”

The next two tracks were co-written by Dumas; “More People” and “Heartbreaker.” The former is a calm, acoustic tune in which the band describes what kind of people we need more of in the world—ones who learn to forgive, call a friend on their busiest day, get to know strangers by inviting them over for a beer, and would pay for a single mother’s groceries.

“Heartbreaker” is a very produced track about a woman who only uses guys when she’s lonely. The man in the song gives in to her beauty, even though he knows she will just break his heart in the end. The verses give off an old-western vibe with its backing strings and steel guitar.

The final song features rising female artist, Lainey Wilson and was penned by Nashville stars such as Corey Crowder (Florida Georgia Line), Steven Lee Olsen (“Blue Ain’t Your Color”), Russell Dickerson, and Lady A’s Charles Kelley. “Good Time To Me” has classic country sounds with heavy bass and percussion. King Calaway and Wilson paint the picture of a perfect night at the bar. Her drawl in the second verse and chorus adds to this authentic honky-tonk feel.

“And it sounds like a good time, like music to my beers // Like the soundtrack to a good night, that’s all I want to hear // I love the sound of neon buzzing, whiskey pouring in my drink // If it sounds anything like that it sounds like a damn good time to me”

The band celebrated the release of Midnight with a live show at the Brooklyn Bowl Nashville last night.

Midnight is the result of many months spent diving into new creative and sonic spaces,” the band said in a recent press release. “We carefully crafted these songs with our live show in mind, and it’s only fitting that we get to share them for the first time live from Nashville.”

Midnight Tracklist

Homegrown (Chad Michael Jervis, Kevin Griffin)
More People (Simon Dumas, Ryan Lafferty, Tina Parol Gemza)
Heartbreaker (Simon Dumas, Neil Medley, Dave Cohen)
Good Time To Me ft. Lainey Wilson (Charles Kelley, Russell Dickerson, Corey Crowder, Steven Lee Olsen)

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

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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

NYCountry Swag’s 2020 Artists To Watch

January 6, 2020/in Blog /by Stephanie Wagner and Christina Bosch

The New York Country Swag team loves to support rising artists and introduce our followers to the best new music in the genre. Since our inception four years ago we have named rising stars like Russell Dickerson, Luke Combs, Brett Young, Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny, and Jimmie Allen as our Artists to Watch. Check out our picks in 2017, 2018, and 2019 before checking out the 10 artists we picked to have a huge 2020 below.

10. Parker McCollum – This Texas native may have just released his first song on a major label, “Pretty Heart” this past summer after signing with MCA Nashville/UMG Nashville but in the past, he has independently delivered two full-length projects. Focusing on the depth and artistry behind songwriting, McCollum has found a clever balance between traditional Texas country and what is coming out of modern Nashville. We are looking forward to more new music in 2020 and to catch a live show.

For Fans Of: Cody Johnson, Riley Green

Listen: “Pretty Heart”

Stay Connected: @ParkerMcCollum

9. Madison Kozak – Growing up in Ontario but moving to Nashville when she was only 14 years old, Kozak has been chasing the music dream, honing in on her incredible ability to write a song that is filled with emotions for years. We first heard of the songstress in May we were instantly hooked and since then 2019 was a whirlwind for the budding star, signing a record deal as the flagship artist on a female-driven label, Songs & Daughters and touring the country on three different tours. Label head, Nicolle Galyon in partnership with Big Loud Records saw something special in this songwriter artist after hearing “First Last Name”, a song she wrote for her father and ever since has been releasing exceptional songs. She kicks off the new year by heading overseas to tour with Chase Rice.

For Fans Of: Kelsea Ballerini, Carrie Underwood

Listen: “OMG ILY”

Stay Connected: @Madison_Kozak

8. King Calaway – Last January we were introduced to a brand new band comprised of six talented musicians from different places, Caleb Miller (Ohio), Chris Deaton (Nashville), Simon Dumas (Gibraltar), Jordan Harvey (Scotland), Chad Michael Jervis (Delaware), and Austin Luther (Minnesota). One of the very first time they played for fans before their music was released, King Calaway performed a showcase with NYCountry Swag in New York City and all in attendance were blown away. Their impeccable harmonies, catchy tunes, and larger than life personalities have since caught the attention of country music fans across the nation. Their debut record, Rivers features 12 tracks written by some of Nashville’s biggest songwriters and covers an array of topics.

For Fans Of: One Direction, Rascal Flatts

Listen: “Rivers”

Stay Connected: @KingCalaway

7. Chris Bandi – When a song is streamed 60 million times, you know there is something special about it. St. Louis native, Nashville based artist and songwriter Chris Bandi is pushing his major-label debut, “Man Enough Now” to country radio this year and the tale rings true of realizing your mistakes, owning them and hoping for a second chance. Bandi will hit the road with Matt Stell in the upcoming months and sources say plans to release an EP as well.

For Fans Of: Gavin DeGraw, Chris Lane

Listen: “Man Enough Now”

Stay Connected: @ChrisBandi

6. Ingrid Andress – We first caught songwriter/artist Ingrid Andress last February during an NYC showcase right after she was signed to Warner Music Nashville/Atlantic Records and her unique presence, storytelling ability, and hilarious realness caught our attention immediately. With songs like “More Hearts Than Mine”, “Both”, and “Lady Like”, Andress pushes the boundaries of topics usually discussed in the country format, forcing new followers to pay attention. She was named one of CRS New Faces for the class of 2020, a prestigious honor and she joins Dan + Shay on the first leg of their arena tour in 2020.

For Fans Of: Kacey Musgraves, Ashley McBryde

Listen: “More Hearts Than Mine”

Stay Connected: @IngridAndress

5. Ross Ellis – Although a bit more undiscovered than the rest of our list, Ross Ellis has a powerhouse, unique voice and his latest single “Buy and Buy” is compelling and begs for repeat spins. By weaving a powerful visual of religion, addiction, and wasted time, “Buy and Buy” is as profound as it is innovative. As a songwriter, Ellis co-wrote one of Tim McGraw’s latest singles, “Neon Church” and a song on Home Free’s new album, Dive Bar Saints called “Dreamer” but in 2020 we hope to hear new songs from Ellis as we continue to champion rising artists and songwriters like him.

For Fans Of: Brett Young, Dan + Shay

Listen: “Buy and Buy”

Stay Connected: @RossEllisMusic

4. Avenue Beat – Our most unique, fresh, and different act on this year’s Artists to Watch is Avenue Beat. Comprised of three girls from Illinois, Sami Bearden, Savana Santos, and Sam Backoff they are original and their creative new wave country is as endearing as it is inventive. Their harmonies, melodies, and frankly genius lyrics are relatable to a niche of young women that are thirsty for someone to sing about what they are going through. Signed to Big Machine Label Group’s Valory Music Co. in partnership with Tape Room Records they released their debut self-titled EP in July and toured with Mason Ramsey in 2019. If you are looking for some sass with a side of sensational lyrics, look no further than Avenue Beat.

For Fans Of: Walker Hayes, Kelsea Ballerini

Listen: “Be A Bro”

Stay Connected: @AvenueBeat

3. Jameson Rodgers – Last February we interviewed Jameson Rodgers for our Swag Spotlight feature, right after he released his EP which featured his break out hit, “Some Girls”. This Mississippi native is now planted firmly in Nashville, writing and creating music as a Sony Music Nashville artist and has toured with Luke Combs on his Beer Never Broke My Heart tour and just announced that in 2020 he will embark on his very first headlining tour. Relatable lyrics that are set to a modern-day twang, Rodgers has already garnered a ton of fans and hopefully the new year we can expect a full-length album.

For Fans Of: Jon Pardi, Luke Combs

Listen: “Some Girls”

Stay Connected: @JamesonRodgers

2. Gabby Barrett – She may have become a household name because of her stint on American Idol but Gabby Barrett is showing Nashville and the country music community that women want to hear a female write a song from her own perspective. Her debut radio single, “I Hope” not only features her sultry voice but has a twist in the chorus that will make men and women fall in love with her honest take on a bad breakup. Having toured with Chris Lane, Barrett is already included in major festival line ups including Stagecoach, Tortuga, and New York’s own TrailBlazer.

For Fans Of: Maren Morris, Lauren Alaina

Listen: “I Hope”

Stay Connected: @GabbyBarrett_

1. HARDY – Already having a huge break out year in 2019, HARDY celebrated four number one songs as a songwriter, “God’s Country”, “I Don’t Know About You”, “Simple”, and “Up Down”. He also released one of the most prolific albums of the year, HIXTAPE Vol. 1 which features 17 different artists, all singing about growing up in a small town. Emerging as an artist, HARDY has created a persona that makes you envy his Mississippi upbringing, making ‘redneck’ cool. In October we caught his sold-out headlining NYC show and just announced, the songwriter and artist will join Cole Swindell and Thomas Rhett on the Center Point Road tour which will make it’s away across the country this summer.

For Fans Of: Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line

Listen: “One Beer”

Stay Connected: @HARDY

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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 Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

King Calaway Releases “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)”

November 1, 2019/in Blog /by Dylan Bestler

Not even a month after they dropped their first studio album, Rivers, King Calaway is back with their first holiday release; a cover of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Happy Christmas (War is Over)”. Originally released in 1971 to celebrate the end of the Vietnam War, it has since been covered by a variety of artists including Neil Diamond, Celine Dion, REO Speedwagon, Maroon 5 and many others. Now, we get to hear Nashville’s newest, rising country group record it.

This six-man group did not change any of the lyrics to this political, yet historic Christmas track, but definitely gave it their own personal touch. Instead of it starting with an acoustic guitar, King Calaway uses a piano and includes a violin that fades out when the lyrics come in. Throughout the song, the group’s signature harmonies take front and center and at the end, the violin comes back in to give this timeless song a new twist.

The group decided to choose this Christmas song specifically as it reflects the band’s collective spirit and strong belief in togetherness. King Calaway is very familiar with the idea of coming together as all six members are from different cultures, backgrounds, and regions spanning from Tennessee to Minnesota, all the way to Scotland.

“We really tried to convey messages of hope and happiness in the album Rivers we just released and wanted to continue that theme with the release of ‘Happy Christmas.’ We also wanted to pay homage to the great John Lennon – an artist who has influenced us as a band tremendously,” drummer Chris Deaton confessed in a recent press release. “When recording the track, we stayed very true to the original but were still able to instill what is quickly becoming that distinct King Calaway sound. We hope people love our take on this Christmas classic.”

King Calaway’s tour runs until December 1^st. For tickets, head to their website. To keep up with the group, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“Happy Christmas (War is Over)” 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 it a follow for your new country 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 Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression: King Calaway ‘Rivers’

October 4, 2019/in Blog /by Dylan Bestler

The country music group that Billboard described as “The Eagles meet One Direction”, King Calaway released their highly anticipated debut album, Rivers on Friday. The record features twelve tracks, five of which were on their self-titled EP including the lead single “World For Two”. They create a unique sound that’s a little bit country, a little bit 80’s rock, a little bit boy band and undoubtedly new, different, creative and perhaps revolutionary.

King Calaway is made up of six members who are all from different backgrounds and hometowns. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio guitarist Caleb Miller is the youngest member. He played every genre as a kid from country to heavy metal to blues. Vocalist and acoustic guitar player Chad Michael Jervis grew up in Wilmington, Delaware where his biggest influence was Elvis Presley. Bassist, Austin Luther hails from Marshall, Minnesota, listening to mainly Irish-rock group, U2. Pianist, Simon Dumas, and Jordan Harvey grew up in Europe; Spain and Scotland, respectively. Drummer Chris Deaton, son of famous producer Robert Deaton, is the Tennessee native that rounds out the group.

Listeners can hear the diversity right off the bat with the lead track “No Matter What”. It is an upbeat song with the message “no matter what happens, we got us and our love will always be there”. Penned by big names Andy Albert, Paul DiGiovanni, Jordan Schmidt, Devin Dawson, and Mitchell Tenpenny, it has the potential to become a big hit.

There are a lot of love songs on this record, the first of which is “More Than I Do”. This song, which starts off slow than progresses, is about a man who admits his faults but has one quality that reigns supreme over all others; he will love this girl more than anyone will. The title track, “Rivers” is similar as it starts slow but when develops it gains a slight EDM beat, similar to one you’d hear in Maren Morris/ZEDD’s “The Middle” and Zac Brown Band’s “Tomorrow Never Comes”. It was written by Teddy Geiger, Bruce Fielder, Tom Parker, RuthAnne Cunningham, and ØJM. Parker, Cunningham and ØJM also penned the seventh track, “Grow Old”. King Calaway will perform “Rivers” on The Late Late Show with James Corden on October 8.

“Obvious” is a fun song that fans can dance and sing along to as the group spells out the word for us. “O-B-V-I-O-U-S / I’m in love with you / And it’s obvious”. “Driver’s Seat” is another happy track with harmonies and electric guitars. This song represents freedom as the two people in the story have a car and a pocket full of gas money. It was the first new song the band released when they announced their upcoming album.

“Missing You” is the saddest track on the album; it just makes you want to find them and give them a hug. The person in the song is getting over a breakup and is having a tough time doing so. “Makeup, or hang up / girl, I’m begging you / it’s the ‘getting over’ that I gotta get through”.

When you hear the words, “I do” you immediately associate them with marriage and weddings. “I Do” puts a different spin on the short phrase. The guy in the song wonders what life would’ve been like if he could have committed to a marriage like his ex wanted him to. “I do / yeah, I do / oh, I do / think about you”. This song was written by established writers Ross Copperman, Jon Nite, and Brett and Brad Warren.

The lead single, “World For Two”, also co-written by Copperman, Josh Osborne, and James Abrahart depicts how the man wants to create a world with only him and his girl in it. When released in January, the track became the #1 most added song at country radio in its debut week. Watch the music video for it here:

Closing the record is their cover of Crosby, Stills and Nash’s “Love the One You’re With” and “I Did”. The former puts a unique, upbeat spin on the classic track and the latter is the opposite as it may be the slowest song on the album. The man is recalling what he could’ve done wrong to make his girl leave him. He comes to the realization that he gave this relationship his all so there is nothing to be ashamed of. Although it’s sad, it’s a nice way to end the album as most of it was about someone struggling to get over a breakup but after twelve tracks he has finally come to terms with it. Rivers was a story in itself, another reason why it is so unique.

Back in January, we had the privilege of hosting a show at New York City’s Bowery Electric featuring King Calaway. Since that time, they already taken the world by storm – from performing with Ricky Skaggs at the Grand Ole Opry, appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, opening for Garth Brooks at one of his stadium dates and headlining a festival in Gibraltar, the group has already accomplished major milestones most country artists can only dream of.

They’re country stars for a new generation, singing songs that erase the boundaries between genres and countries. King Calaway isn’t looking to blend into the crowd. They’re not even looking to fit in. They’re in the business of standing out and King Calaway stands tall.

To keep up with King Calaway, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Rivers 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
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King Calaway Put Their Own Spin on Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One”

September 16, 2019/in Blog /by Julia Grubbs

King Calaway does it again with the release of an Amazon Original cover of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One”. Easily one of the most recognized songs of the ’90s, the band is taking a risk choosing such an iconic song and superstar to cover however we think it definitely paid off. The song remains true to the rich sound and style of the classic Shania tune, while seemingly creating a brand new style that’s becoming known as King Calaway’s personal brand. The band has a magic strategy of creating music that rings true to all of country music’s fans, while simultaneously inventing a new sound in music. Simon Dumas of the band said, “We chose ‘You’re Still The One’ because we feel it’s a timeless song that has the ability to entertain every generation. We worked tirelessly to make this track our own while also paying tribute to its origins, and of course, we had to shower it in King Calaway harmonies!” They did just that but the heart of Shania is still beating through the entire song.

With the release of their album Rivers just a few weeks away, this only furthers their attention and addition of new fans. If you can reach Shania’s fans, some of the most loyal fans in the industry, you’re well on your way to a whole new base of followers. These guys take their diversity in origin and perspective to bring together a cohesive group of fun-loving, music-making personalities that will surely win the hearts of country music.

For more details about their new album and the first release from the project, “Driver’s Seat” click here.

Take a listen below and keep up with King Calaway by following them on

—————

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 Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

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