Tag Archive for: Lauren Watkins

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Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (10/10)

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Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.

“Elijah” – Priscilla Block

On her sophomore album, Things You Didn’t See, Priscilla Block pours her heart out, giving fans every side of her, including singing about her beautiful relationship with her boyfriend on new song, “Elijah.”

 

“Back To The Bottle” – Timmy McKeever

Timmy McKeever continues to grow his music catalog with brand new song, “Back To The Bottle.”

 

“Fall Together” – RaeLynn

RaeLynn continues to crank out her best music to date with new song, “Fall Together.”

 

“Keep Your Hands To Yourself” – Tucker Wetmore (Amazon Original)

Tucker Wetmore drops an Amazon Original with “Keep Your Hands To Yourself.”

 

“Small Town Does” – Noah Hicks

On his debut EP, Small Town Does, Noah Hicks impresses on and each and every track.

 

“Oh, Anna!” – Dasha

On her new EP, Anna, Dasha shines in all aspects. We especially love her vulnerable song, “Oh, Anna!”

 

“Chasin’ Whiskey” – Jenna Paulette with Jake Worthington

Jenna Paulette joins forces with Jake Worthington on brand new song, “Chasin’ Whiskey.”

 

“Open Book” – Faith Hopkins

Faith Hopkins shows off her talent on her brand new EP, Love & Insanity, out no, including prolific new song, “Open Book.”

 

“Justa One Kiss” – Chandler Walters

Chandler Walters impresses on new song, “Justa One Kiss.”

 

“Still Feel The Burn” – Zach John King

Zach John King continues to crank out new music, including this impressive new country song, “Still Feel The Burn.”

 

“Oklahoma” – Braedon Barnhill

Braedon Barnhill’s brand new song, “Oklahoma” is one of his best to date.

 

“I Better Go” – Mae Estes

On her self-tiled EP, Mae Estes showcases her incredible talent. “I Better Go” is one of our favorites off the project.

 

“Unknown Legend” – Lukas Nelson and Sierra Ferrell with The Travelin’ McCourys

In a legendary collaboration, entertainers, Lukas Nelson, Sierra Ferrell and The Travelin’ McCourys join forces on “Unknown Legend.”

 

“Pretty Little Liar” – Waylon Wyatt

Waylon Wyatt continues to rise his star, releasing his new song, “Pretty Little Liar.”

 

“Jack Gets Me Sober” – Shaylen

Shaylen impresses on brand new song, “Jack Gets Me Sober.”

 

“The Wizard” – Meels

Meels drops a fun-funky country song called, “The Wizard.”

 

“Smokin’ Gun” – Kalsey Kulyk

Kalsey Kulyk shows off her talent on new song, “Smokin’ Gun.”

 

“Two Trains” – Ty Myers ft. Marcus King

Ty Myers collaborates with Marcus King on a brand new song called, “Two Trains.”

 

“Don’t You Want A Woman” – Melissa Eltheridge

Melissa Eltheridge shines on “Don’t You Want A Woman.”

 

“Taillights Too Late” – Tommy Acker

Tommy Acker grows his catalog with brand new song, “Taillights Too Late.”

 

“Dirt” – HunterGirl

HunterGirl impresses on brand new song, “Dirt.”

 

“Beer Back Home” – Morgan Evans

Morgan Evans announces his sophomore album in conjunction with dropping new track, “Beer Back Home.”

 

“In Some Way” – Tanner Laws

Tanner Laws shares brand new song, “In Some Way.”

 

“Goodbyes Are Hard to Listen To” – Joe Nichols

Joe Nichols expands his catalog with brand new song, “Goodbyes Are Hard to Listen To.”

 

“Bulldog” – Philip Bowen

Philip Bowen drops his brand new album Appalachia Forever featuring incredible songs including “Bulldog.”

 

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.

Check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music‘ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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Lauren Watkins: ‘In A Perfect World’ – Album Review

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Lauren Watkins releases her brand new album, In A Perfect World, out now, October 10th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new project here.

With In A Perfect World, Lauren Watkins delivers an intimate portrait of a young woman and rising superstar coming into her own. Released via Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters, the 10-track collection builds on the momentum of her breakout debut The Heartbroken Record, this time finding Watkins leaning further into her unique style. She’s a storyteller in the vein of Kacey Musgraves, Carly Pearce, and Alison Krauss, but possesses a honeyed tone that’s akin to Trisha Yearwood meets Ashley Monroe.

The result is masterful and gorgeous. An effortless combination of sweet and sassy, Watkins leans heavily into country instrumentation and tropes. She collaborated throughout with her husband and producer, Will Bundy, as well as hitmaker Joey Moi. The singer-songwriter co-penned all of the album’s tracks, alongside superstar writers like Trannie Anderson, Rodney Clawson, Natalie Hemby, Mark Trussell and more. 

“I am so beyond proud of this music,” shared Watkins. “I’ve lived so much life in the past couple years, from playing shows all over the world and spending half of my time on the road, to building a sweet little life in a farmhouse with my husband. It’s made me appreciate so many parts of all of it. I’ve started embracing the simple things just as much as the chaos. And that’s what inspired these 10 songs. It paints a good picture of what my world looks like these days, but I really hope people can see their own world within it too.”   

The album opens on an almost ethereal note with the title track, a lush and dreamy ballad that wonders about love and perfection. With lyrics like “It might be nice to have a shiny white picket fence life // But I bet a man like you would never love this girl in a perfect world,” Watkins sets the tone for an album steeped in realism, longing, and self-awareness. 

She continues to showcase her lyricism on standout tracks like the ode to a “perfectly predictable” love on “Average Joe and Plain Jane” and “Love Is Tough,” a powerful testament to the enduring qualities of real love. With its building arrangement and heartland grit, it recalls the musical punch of “Gatlinburg” from her debut. “It’s all breakups ‘til you meet the one,” she muses, her voice both full of whimsy and wisdom.

“When it’s right, when it’s real // Love is downright hard to kill // Holds its own strong as steel // Stands its ground, digs in its heels // Any storm, any weather // It’ll hold this thing together // There ain’t nothin’ it’s scared of // Love is tough”

Songs like “Britches” and “I’ll Get Through It” show her steely and empowered side, with the former calling out a frenemy who’s let her ego take over. With the zinger “You might be a size two, but you’re too big for your britches,” it’s Watkins at her sassiest yet. Meanwhile, “Get Through It” is a stomping testament to perseverance. “I got a hangover in store // But just like you walking out that door / I’ll get through it.” 

“Marlboro Man” is a wistful and Western ode to nostalgia, while “Lose My Cool” feels inspired  by the heyday of 90s country. Likewise, the harmonic and swooping “I Was Fine Before I Met You” would sound right at home on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Interestingly, the steel-laden track begins with its chorus in a way that’s unique and perfectly executed.

“I was fine before I met you // I was wild and twenty-three // Out here drinkin’ for a good time // Not tryin’ to kill a memory It might be hard to forget you // Hope it don’t take too damn long // But I was fine before I met you // So there ain’t no reason why I won’t be fine when you’re gone”

Watkins pairs with John Morgan on a sultry duet, singing through the back-and-forth of an on-and-off again relationship, equal parts irresistible and doomed. Their voices meld gorgeously on the bittersweet chorus, mapping the emotional rollercoaster with precision.

“You and me // Crown and Coke Six string // Playin’ slow One backslide turns into tellin’ our friends that we’re // Back in love, They’ll roll their eyes We’ll say they’re wrong // But prove ‘em right // Wind up heartbroken all over again // We’ve been down this road // We both know it’s a slippery slope”

The album closes with the heart-wrenching “Pretty Please,” one of Watkins’ most vulnerable songs to date. Suspicious and insecure, she pleads for reassurance as jealousy creeps in, wondering where she stands in her own relationship: “Don’t call her pretty / Please, with a cherry on top,” She pleads, voice aching with emotion as she wonders about the “second comin’ of Jolene.”

In A Perfect World is a gorgeously crafted, deeply personal record that proves Lauren Watkins to be a vital new voice in country music.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Average Joe and Plain Jane
  2. Slippery Slope (with John Morgan)
  3. Love Is Tough
  4. I’ll Get Through It

In A Perfect WorldTracklist:

  1. In A Perfect World (Lauren Watkins, Mia Mantia, Caroline Watkins) 
  2. Love Is Tough (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Mark Trussell, Lydia Vaughan) 
  3. I’ll Get Through It (Lauren Watkins, Trannie Anderson, Will Bundy) 
  4. Marlboro Man (Lauren Watkins, Natalie Hemby, Jeremy Spillman) 
  5. Slippery Slope (feat. John Morgan) (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Mark Trussell, Lydia Vaughan) 
  6. Average Joe and Plain Jane (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate, Luke Laird, Caroline Watkins) 
  7. Britches (Lauren Watkins, Trannie Anderson, Will Bundy, Mia Mantia) 
  8. Lose My Cool (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon) 
  9. I Was Fine Before I Met You (Lauren Watkins, Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird) 
  10. Pretty Please (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate, Luke Laird)
Lauren-watkins-perfect-world

Lauren Watkins shares new album, ‘In A Perfect World,’ 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 Lauren Watkins releases.

For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.

To keep up with Lauren Watkins, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

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

new-country-songs-12-5

Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (9/19)

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Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.

“Let The Lonely” – Kameron Marlowe

Kameron Marlowe continues to release his best music to date, adding, “Let The Lonely” to his growing catalog.

 

“Train” – Dasha

As fans await her next project, Dasha shares her nostalgic new song, “Train.”

 

“Too Good, Too Bad” – Jason Scott & The High Heat

Jason Scott & The High Heat show off their unique talent on new song, “Too Good, Too Bad.”

 

“Days Are Numbered” – Vincent Mason

In conjunction with the release date for his debut album, Vincent Mason is sharing his new song, “Days Are Numbered.”

 

“Born In A Burning House” – Chase McDaniel

In his stunning debut album Lost Ones, Chase McDaniel shares his life stories. “Born In A Burning House,” one of the songs off the record is one of our absolute favorites.

 

“Slippery Slope” – Lauren Watkins ft. John Morgan

In a stunning pairing, Lauren Watkins and John Morgan show off their talents on new song, “Slippery Slope.”

 

“The Bridge” – Payton Smith

In his new album, The Bridge, Payton Smith drops ten new songs, including the catchy title track.

 

“Happy Ever After” – Thelma & James

On their debut EP, Staring Over, the duo shows off their incredible talent and songwriting. “Happy Ever After” is the song that started it all.

 

“Head Spinning” – Coleman Jennings

Austin-based singer-songwriter Coleman Jennings will make his label debut with “Head Spinning.”

 

“Dog Years” – HARDY

In an incredible solo-write, HARDY proves why he’s one of the best modern songwriters in country music with his new song, “Dog Years.”

 

“20 Bucks” – Colin Stough

In his new song, “20 Bucks,” Colin Stough shows his grit and ability to create an absolute ear-worm of a song.

 

“Measure” – Corey Kent & Max McNown

“Measure” is a stunning story-telling song about the real riches in life. Both Corey Kent and Max McNown together made for an incredible song.

 

“Hardwood Floor (string session)” – Morgan Wade

Morgan Wade adds to her growing catalog of songs with, “Hardwood Floor (string session).”

 

“Broken Man” – Eddie And The Getaway

On his brand new EP, TUMBLEWEEDS & NICOTINE, Eddie And The Getaway show off their unique talent and musical arrangements. “Broken Man” is great example of that.

 

“Brake Lights” – Chris Young

Chris Young continues to embark on a new era of music, dropping his new song, “Brake Lights.”

 

“Later Tonight” – Joss Ross

Josh Ross’ debut album is officially here featuring new songs, like the title track.

 

“Everything I Wanted” – Evan Honer

Evan Honor’s third studio album Everything I Wanted is officially out now featuring a ton of new music including the title track.

 

“Little Birds” – Elizabeth Nichols

Making waves with her latest single, “Little Birds,” Elizabeth Nichols is showing no signs of slowing down.

 

“Tumbleweed” – Drake Milligan

Drake Milligan grows his catalog of songs with his new single, “Tumbleweed.”

 

“The One” – Georgia Webster

Independent artist, Georgia Webster shows off his singer-songwriting talent on new song, “The One.”

 

“Every Piece” – Hunter Hayes

Hunter Hayes continues to have a resurgence with his new song, “Every Piece.”

 

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.

Check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music‘ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

new-country-songs-12-5

Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week (8/22)

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Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.

“Average Joe & Plain Jane” – Lauren Watkins

Lauren Watkins unique talent shines on her brand new song, “Average Joe & Plain Jane.”

 

“Believe” – Kashus Culpepper

Kashus Culpepper grows his music catalog with his brand new song, “Believe.”

 

“About You” – BigXThatPlug ft. Tucker Wetmore

In BigXThatPlug’s country crossover album, he features collaborations with different country artists, including this fun new song, “About You” with Tucker Wetmore.

 

“swear words” – Ashley Cooke

Ashley Cooke continues to share her heart in this new era of music. “swear words” is a continuation of that.

 

“Something In The Way” – Stephen Wilson Jr.

Stephen Wilson Jr. shares new song, “Something In The Way” and announces brand new project.

 

“Water At A Wedding (Acoustic Version)” – Greylan James

Capitalizing on his viral hit, “Water At A Wedding,” James is going fans what they asked for. The acoustic version of the catchy new song is out now.

 

“Broken Man” – Eddie And the Gateway

In a final preview of his a final preview of his upcoming Tumbleweeds & Nicotine EP, Eddie And the Gateway shares new song, “Broken Man”

 

“Turned Into Missing You” – Avery Anna and Max McNown

Avery Anna joins forces with Max McNown on new song, “Turned Into Missing You.”

 

“Home Sweet Hell” – Austin Snell

Austin Snell’s brand new EP, Home Sweet Hell is officially out today, featuring seven songs in total, including the captivating title track.

 

“Stuff” – Joshua Ray Walker

Joshua Ray Walker readies new music, announcing new song, “Stuff” out today.

 

“season 2 of friends” – MaRynn Taylor

MaRynn Taylor officially drops her long-awaited debut project, MaRynn, out today, featuring songs like “season 2 of friends.”

 

“Life Like” – Roman Alexander

Roman Alexander embarks on a new era of music, releasing his brand new EP, Midwest Calling.

 

“My Side Of Town” – Josh Ross

As Josh Ross readies his debut album, fans can preview the record with new song, “My Side Of Town,” out today.

 

“Bite Back” – Remy Garrison

Remy Garnison shows off her sassy personality on brand new song, “Bite Back.”

 

“Like It Like That” – Dasha

Dasha brings her signature charm to her brand new song, “Like It Like That.”

 

“Famous Back Home” – Russell Dickerson

Russell Dickerson’s album is officially here featuring incredible songs including title track, “Famous Back Home.”

 

“Crying in a Beach Bar” – Old Dominion

Old Dominion’s sixth studio album, Barbara is officially out now, including new song, “Crying in a Beach Bar.”

 

“Deserve Her” – Drew Baldridge

Drew Baldridge stuns on brand new, prolific song, “Deserve Her.”

 

“10 & 2” – Tommy Acker

Rising country artist, Tommy Acker grows his catalog of music with new song, “10 & 2.”

 

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.

Check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music‘ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

Lauren Watkins Kicks off 2025 with New Song “Lose My Cool”

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Lauren Watkins shares new song, “Lose My Cool,” out now, April 4th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new track below.

Lauren Watkins is one of the coolest and innovative artists in country music right now. She releases music that speaks to her talent as both a singer and a songwriter. While we have enjoyed all the music she has put out so far in her young career, 2025 is slated to be a new era of music for the rising star. Today, the songstress releases her new song, “Lose My Cool.”

The Big Loud Records songbird bring a new, sunshine-ready vibe to her growing catalog of music. “Lose My Cool” captures the moment when you allow someone you like to come fully in. Written by Watkins with her songwriter husband Will Bundy and incredible songwriters, Nicolle Galyon and Rodney Clawson, the single is the perfect first the songstress’ smoky vocals.

Fans can hear “Lose My Cool” and more live, when Watkins heads out on tour with Zach Top. Check-out all the shows in your area here! Lauren Watkins is the real deal and her talent is evident in each and every release. Make sure to download he new single ASAP!

Lauren-watkins-lose-my-cool

Lauren Watkins shares new song, “Lose My Cool,” 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 Lauren Watkins releases.

To keep up with Lauren Watkins, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

“Lose My Cool” 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.

new-country-songs-12-5

Here Are The New Country Songs You Need To Know This Week

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Here are all of the new country songs that you need to know this week. Check-out the full list of incredible new songs that came out this new music Friday.

“Til The Last One Dies” – Chris Young

Chris Young finds new label home and releases his first new single in over a year.

 

“Most Nights” – Old Dominion

Old Dominion shares a heartbreakingly beautiful and honest new song, out now.

 

“Camo” – Graham Barham

Graham Barham continues to grow his catalog with his newest song, “Camo.”

 

“Lose My Cool” – Lauren Watkins

Lauren Watkins gives independent girls in love a feel-good anthem with her newest song.

 

“I Love This Beach” – Niko Moon

Niko Moon brings his laid-back, beach vibes to his new single.

 

“One For The Road” – Preston Cooper

Preston Cooper readies his debut project and shares fans a sneak peak with his new song, out now!

 

Join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news, announcements and releases.

Check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music‘ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

Lauren Watkins: ‘The Heartbroken Record’ – Debut Album Review

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Lauren Watkins releases her brand new debut album, The Heartbroken Record, out now, June 2st on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new project here.

With a honeyed vocal tone that evokes a mix of the country greats with today’s modern female superstars, rising singer-songwriter Lauren Watkins is full of promise. The Nashville native’s debut album, The Heartbroken Record, out now, features 17 new tracks that take listeners on a journey.

Each track was co-penned by Watkins, enlisting Music Row heavy-hitters like Nicolle Galyon, Lance Miller, Andy Sheridan, and more, to lend their talents. Collaborators include Ashley Monroe, Sheryl Crow, Carter Faith, and Jake Worthington, each who lend their voices to the Joey Moi-produced debut.

Released via Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters, the album centers around the universal theme of heartbreak but touches on everything from wallowing to revenge to moving on. “It’s the one thing that connects everybody, because no matter who you are, what your status is or how much money you have, we all feel heartbreak – it makes us the same,” Watkins revealed in a statement. “And I happen to think that as much as it can be sad, it’s a beautiful, necessary part of life.”

For Watkins, much of her debut project reads like an extremely well-written and poignant journal, her voice and style recalling icons like Miranda Lambert, Kacey Musgraces, LeeAnn Womack, and more. “I didn’t want to just put an album out – I wanted it to be purposeful,” she says. “It’s the past several years of my life, and that was just so much heartbreak and dramatic girl-feelings, but I think in a really deep and relatable way… and it just needs to get off my chest.”

Sonically, the album tends to embrace the influences of 90s country and a rootsy twang, with moments of singalon- worthy anthemic empowerment.  “I brought all my influences to the table – from Kacey Musgraves and Willie Nelson to Miranda Lambert – and tried to cover every emotion that comes with heartbreak. The good, the bad, and the ugly,” she reveals. “It’s exactly the space in country I thought was missing and wanted to fill. It’s sweet and warm, but also gritty and tough at the same time, and that’s my favorite thing. I love it.”

The album’s opener “Leavers Leave” is an immediate attention-grabber with its mid-tempo 90’s inspired melody that finds her vocals floating over the inevitable facts of life. Likewise, the album’s titular track is equally poignant, as she finds herself spiraling like a broken record after a heartbreak.

While Watkins shines on ballads, she’s also right at home on up-tempo tunes, evidenced on the clever kiss off, “One Trick Pony” and “Sad Songs and You,” which finds her musing that “the only things that ever make me cry are sad songs and you.” The tune is a twangy two-stepper just made for the Opry stage, while the earwormy “Gallatin” bounces along with a summery and endlessly catchy Shanty-esque cadence.

“Mama I Made It” finds her channeling her inner Reba, cleverly turning tongue-in-cheek phrases on the lyrical disaster of her own making, while “Stuck in Her Ways” is a reflective acceptance that she’s not about to change who she is.

“I keep a six pack in the Fridge // And a rocking chair out back // I keep a light on, on the porch // And a key under the mat // I don’t park in that spot where you parked your Chevrolet // I ain’t sitting ‘round hoping you’ll come back someday // I’m just stuck in my ways // Yeah I’m stuck in my ways”

The collabs on the album provide another set of highlights, truly allowing Watkins to experiment with different sounds and styles. On “Set My Heart On Fire,” she joins forces with Sheryl Crow in an attempt to not be swayed by another bad boy. It’s rootsy and guitar-driven, much like much of Crow’s catalog. Likewise, “Pretend You’re Coming Home” finds Watkins trading verses with the ethereal Ashley Monroe, the pair longing for a simpler time when someone was still coming home. “Around five every night, I go back in time,” they sing. “Even though you’re gone, I pretend you’re coming home.”

On “Fly on the Wall,” she harmonizes with Jake Worthington, whose pristine baritone perfectly complements her emotive twang as they deal with the waltzing aftermath of moving on. Carter Faith joins in on “Cowboys on Music Row,” the pair musing over the sad state of today’s cowboys and country singers, longing for the days of the “redheaded stranger” or a “real rodeo man.” It’s a modern take on Paula Cole’s “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?,” as they lament “Where oh, where oh, where did they go, There ain’t no cowboys on music row.”

On “Settling Things,” Watkins shows shades of Musgraves’ “Merry Go ‘Round,” musing that “we’re all kind of happy, we’re all kind of bored.” Likewise, “Burn the Bridge” has her realizing that some things just can’t be saved and it’s better to move on and move forward. It’s a catchy and lush moment of acceptance. 

“Yeah I burned up a backroad // On my way outta town and // I Lit up a cigarette // To put that old flame out // Gonna burn down the bar // Burn some pictures in the yard // ‘Cause it is what it Is // If you can’t mend the fence // Burn the bridge”

Songs like “Anybody But You,” “Shirley Temple,” and “Jealous of Jane,” find her trying, with varying degrees of success, to move on. On “Anybody,” she admits that “the only way to fall out of love is to hate you,” while “Jealous” has her admitting that she “don’t want him back, but I don’t want him to want her.” 

The album ends with “Too Much to Dream,” an ethereal showcase of Watkins’ gorgeous twang and brilliant lyricism. Here, she’s still trying to move on, finding an escape in her dreams.

“So if I seem like I’m a ten out of ten // I owe it to a few sheets to the wind // Tucked me in faster than I could cry // I had too much to dream last night // So if I seem like I’m a ten out of ten // I owe it to a few sheets to the wind”

With seventeen tracks centered around the central theme of heartbreak, it would’ve been easy for The Heartbroken Record to come off as same-ish and one dimensional. However, that’s not the case here. Instead, Watkins delivers a multi-faceted and humanized take on broken hearts and the aftermath in a way that shows that healing may not always be linear. It’s truly a work of art that the singer-songwriter should be proud of as she moves into her next chapter, personally and professionally.

The Heartbroken Record Tracklist:

  1. Leavers Leave (Lauren Watkins, Lance Miller, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
  2. Mama, I Made It (Lauren Watkins, Rocky Block, Lauren Hungate)
  3. Heartbroken Record (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Caroline Watkins)
  4. Sad Songs And You (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate)
  5. Set My Heart On Fire (feat. Sheryl Crow) (Lauren Watkins, Emily Landis, Summer Overstreet, Lydia Vaughan)
  6. Stuck In My Ways (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, David Garcia, Emily Landis)
  7. Gatlinburg (Lauren Watkins, Jessie Jo Dillon, Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Ashley Monroe, Caroline Watkins)
  8. Anybody But You (Lauren Watkins, Rodney Clawson, Mark Holman, Ernest Keith Smith)
  9. Settling Things (Lauren Watkins, Lauren Hungate, Luke Laird)
  10. One Trick Pony (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Lydia Vaughan, Caroline Watkins)
  11. Fly On The Wall (feat. Jake Worthington) (Lauren Watkins, Andy Sheridan, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
  12. Shirley Temple (Lauren Watkins, Nicolle Galyon, Meg McRee)
  13. Pretend You’re Coming Home (feat. Ashley Monroe) (Lauren Watkins, Ashley Monroe, Mark Trussell)
  14. Jealous Of Jane (Lauren Watkins, Brad Warren, Brett Warren, Caroline Watkins)
  15. Cowboys On Music Row (feat. Carter Faith) (Lauren Watkins, Jessie Jo Dillon, Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Ashley Monroe, Caroline Watkins)
  16. Burn The Bridge (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, Emily Landis, Mark Trussell)
  17. Too Much To Dream (Lauren Watkins, Forrest Finn, Nicolle Galyon)

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Gatlinburg
  2. Leavers They Leave 
  3. Burn the Bridge
  4. Cowboys on Music Row
Lauren-watkins-debut-album

Lauren Watkins shares her debut album, ‘The Heartbroken Record,’ 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 Lauren Watkins releases.

For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.

To keep up with Lauren Watkins, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

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

Graham Barham + Lauren Watkins Join Forces on Brand New Song

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Graham Barham and Lauren Watkins collaborate on their brand new song, “Straight To My Heart,” out now, March 29th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new track below.

We have said it time and time again, there is nothing like a solid collaboration in country music. Today, singer-songwriters, Graham Barham and Lauren Watkins deliver a gift to our ears with their new collaboration song. “Straight To My Heart” is officially out today.

“Looks bad, I Know // I’m drunk //S o won’t you just go easy on me // You yelled, I used // The end of us // Hit me like a truck at full speed // What else was I gonna do // If I gotta get over you // ten months went straight out the door // A good thing went straight to hell // Pedal went straight to the floor // No coming back I can tell // I shoulda went straight to bed // But I went straight to the bar // Whiskey went straight to my head // Goodbye went straight to my heart”

Written by the artists with Will Bundy and Lydia Vaughan, “Straight To My Heart” will literally pierce your heart after just one listen. The song is a beautiful back and forth between Barham and Watkins. It depicts heartbreak in its truest form and chronicles the stages of grief at the end of a relationship. Both Barham and Watkins give a lot of credit to their fellow songwriters on creating the song.

“The title was Lydia Vaughan’s idea, and I’ve been wanting to write a song with Lauren for a long time. It worked out well that Will Bundy, my best friend and producer, is her fiancé and they were counseling me through a relationship at the time. Lauren was such an important part of writing this song, and of course she and Will knew what was happening in my life. She took the reins, and we wrote the song and cut it all within 36 hours,” shared Barham.

Both Barham and Watkins are exciting rising artists in country music right now. “Straight To My Heart” is an incredible song to add to each of their prospective, growing music catalogs.

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Graham Barham and Lauren Watkins collaborate on new song, “Straight To My Heart,” out now.

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

To keep up with Graham Barham, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

To keep up with Lauren Watkins, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

“Straight To My Heart” 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.

2024 Country Artists to Watch

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Introducing our 2024 Country Artists to Watch!

Over the past 7+ years of Country Swag, we have always loved to support rising artists and introduce our followers to the best new music in the genre. Since our first Artists to Watch list back in 2017, we have pinned rising stars like Luke Combs, Brett Young, Russell Dickerson, Jordan Davis, Walker Hayes, HARDY, Gabby Barrett, Ernest, and more. Each year we choose ten new artists that we believe are destined for killer careers, our only rule when choosing is the artist can NOT already have a number one song.

Check out our picks in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2o2o, 2021, 2022, and 2023 before checking out the 10 artists we picked to have a huge 2024 below.

 

Country Swag’s 2024 Artists to Watch

WYATT FLORES –

Wyatt Flores // Photo Credit: Matt Paskert

Listen: “Milwaukee”
Stay Connected: @officialwyattflores

From the moment Wyatt Flores came onto our radar, we were all in! Flores has the undeniable “it factor.” His songs are catchy, yet real and his songwriting is emotive, special, and personal. The singer-songwriter has garnered a loyal fanbase both on social media and live shows as he performed to packed out rooms during his sold-out headlining tour in 2023. Flores is primed for a huge 2024, and if you jump on his bandwagon now, you can say you were here from the beginning!

 

DYLAN SCHNEIDER –

Dylan Schneider // Photo Credit: Peyton Dollar

Listen: “Bad Decisions”
Stay Connected: @dylanschneidermusic

Dylan Schneider is one of the more exciting new artists in Nashville today. In 2023, he grew his fanbase, released new music, and grew his reach across the genre. Schneider continues to release songs that lean into his cool, yet country sound. The BBR recording artist appears to be working on new music, so we anticipate that 2024 will be his biggest year yet!

 

LAUREN WATKINS –

Lauren Watkins // Photo Credit: Brayln Kelly

Listen: “Anybody But You”
Stay Connected: @lauren.watkins

Lauren Watkins is the type of artist that makes you stop and listen, the second you hear her sing. Much like Megan Moroney, who made our list last year, Watkins has this undeniable poise and knack for songwriting that increases her staying power. The songstress released two EPs last year, which spoke to her talent as both a vocalist and a songwriter. We can only hope that more music is coming down the pipeline soon from the incredible rising artist.

 

DYLAN GOSSETT –

Dylan Gossett // Photo Credit: William Basnett

Listen: “Coal”
Stay Connected:@dylangossett

Dylan Gossett is a bonafide superstar in Texas, but his talents are finally being introduced to the mainstream country genre. Gossett is unapologetically himself and releases music that fans flock to in droves. His folky and red-dirt songwriting appeal to the country music fanbase. At the top of this year, Gossett landed a record deal with Big Loud Texas/Mercury Records. Additionally, fans can catch the singer on the road this year as part of his ‘No Better Time Tour’!

 

GRAHAM BARHAM –

Graham Barham // Photo Credit: Jesse Deflorio

Listen: “BAYOU BOY”
Stay Connected: @grahambarham

Last year, Graham Barham bursted on to the country music scene with his debut project, North Of Hell, which featured six undeniably great songs. One of our favorites, “Preachers Need People” showed off his incredible songwriting prowess, while other songs showed off his personality and knack for performing live. Throughout 2023, Barham achieved viral success and began to be noticed by the country music industry. In 2024, we expect that the singer will continue to grow his fanbase and share even more music.

 

ELLA LANGLEY –

Ella Langley // Photo Credit: Caylee Robillard

Listen: “Paint The Town Blue”
Stay Connected: @ellalangleymusic

Columbia Records and Sony Music Nashville singer-songwriter, Ella Langley is primed for stardom. Much like Lainey Wilson, Langley is rooted in traditional country; however, she still explores different aspects to her talent through her story-telling and production. While many of the singer’s songs deserve a pedestal, one of our favorites is her recent collaboration with Kameron Marlowe called “Strangers.” We suspect that Langley will have an even bigger 2024!

 

CHARLES WESLEY GODWIN –

Charles Wesley Godwin // Photo Credit: David McClister

Listen: “All Again”
Stay Connected: @charlesgodwin

Country-folk artist, Charles Wesley Godwin is a gem in country music right now. While Godwin has been on the scene for a few years, 2023 was a break-out year for the artist, with 2024, looking even brighter! Fans of artists like Zach Bryan are sure to garner a liking for Godwin too. While it is unclear exactly how 2024 will shape up for the artist, we can only hope that more new music is coming down the pipeline soon!

 

GREYLAN JAMES –

Greylan James // Photo Credit: Trea Allen

Listen: “Ain’t Thinkin’ About You”
Stay Connected: @greylanjames

Big Machine Label Group artist, Greylan James knows a thing or two about hard work and dedication. The budding singer-songwriter worked as a professional songwriter for two years, until he was fired for “not having what it takes”. Subsequently that hardship led him to delve even deeper into music, studying the craft and ultimately landing huge cuts like Kenny Chesney’s “Happy Does” and Jordan Davis’ “Next Thing You Know”. Like a snowball effect, soon after, James secured a record deal of his own. We believe the talented singer-songwriter is primed for a great future in country music.

 

ZACH TOP –

Zach Top // Photo Credit: Citizen Kane Wayne

Listen: “Sounds Like the Radio”
Stay Connected: @zach_top

Zach Top is revitalizing traditional, 90s-esque country music! The singer draws inspiration from artists like George Strait and Keith Whitley, which is appealing to country music lovers everywhere. In 2023, Top’s single “Sounds Like the Radio” speaks to his talent, as well as, the fun and good energy he brings to music. We are excited to see what 2024 looks like for the rising artist!

 

DASHA –

Dasha // Photo Credit: Adam Budd

Listen: “Austin”
Stay Connected: @officialwyattflores

If you are on social media even a little bit then you know who Dasha is. Her viral hit song, “Austin” became a fan-favorite almost overnight and continues to rapidly grow. While we love “Austin,” we have believed in Dasha even before the release of the single. Dasha has honed her talents as a singer and as a songwriter and with each release, we believe she has what it takes to keep her star rising!

 

What other new artists are you enjoying? Make sure to follow us on Instagram, @CountrySwag for the latest in new music. Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming announcements and releases.

Check out the latest tunes in country music 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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Who is Lauren Watkins? The Story Behind Her Journey to Country Music

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Who is Lauren Watkins? The singer-songwriter joined us to chat about her journey to country music. Get to know the rising star here…

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Lauren Watkins // Photo credit: Brayln Kelly

Quick Facts:

Full Name – Lauren Watkins
Birthdate – 08/25/1999
Hometown – Nashville, Tennessee
Current City – Nashville, Tennessee
Musical Influences – Sheryl Crow, Kacey Musgraves, Chris Stapleton, Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert
Label – Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters
Current Single – “The Table” as of date of article: 11/27/23

The Beginning:

Today’s spotlight artist is a Nashville local that we truly believe is about to have the biggest 2024. Lauren Watkins, Songs & Daughters and Big Loud Records recording artist shared with us all about her upbringing, her journey to music, and everything in between.

“I grew up in Nashville, which I know is pretty rare. Nobody believes me anymore when I tell them that,” began the songstress, “I grew up with three sisters and my older sister, who is two years older than me, she’s super into music too. She’s a songwriter in Nashville, and I guess just growing up around country, we were around it all the time. My parents are not musical, but they are music lovers. So the two of us got into singing and playing guitar really young.”

At an early age, Watkins recalls always being captivated by the country music genre. “Honestly, country has always been at the top for me. It’s always been my favorite,” she shared. Adding, ” I was born in ’99, so I grew up in the Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band era. That was sort of my middle school.” Watkins also credits artists like Miranda Lambert and Eric Church as some of her biggest music icons.

Additionally, the singer learned to appreciate older country artists, like Alan Jackson and George Jones, from her dad. While her mom brought a different flavor of music to her catalog. She loved entertainers like Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson,” shared Watkins. “I actually have so much of that piano pop influence in my songwriting and even Colbie Caillat, like the early 2000s girls that were killing it.”

With that love of music intact prior to college, Watkins and her sister, Caroline, would play the Nashville music scene as often as they could. “I try not to take it for granted, so we’d play little bars, all the Pucketts locations in Nashville, and then when we got old enough, we’d play the Broadway bars.”

The Turning Point:

Upon graduating from high school, Watkins headed to Ole Miss for college and decided to put music on the back-burner. “When it was time for me to go to college, I don’t know if it was out of fear or what, I was like ‘I don’t think I’m going to do music for a career.’” However, while in school, Watkins never stopped loving music.

“About two years in, I was having the time of my life in school, I realized that I had to go home to Nashville, when it was over. It was in my soul. I couldn’t get rid of this pull that kept saying ‘You gotta do music.'” Still, Watkins decided to finish out her degree, but began posting some clips of her singing and playing guitar on her Instagram. “I would just sit all night in my room and play my guitar, and I would take little videos, and post them on Instagram.”

Serendipitously, Rodney Clawson, famed songwriter saw one of her Instagram posts. At the exact time, Clawson’s wife, Nicolle Galyon just started her venture as the label-head at her record label imprint, Songs & Daughters. “He showed it to Nicolle, who had just started Songs & Daughters, and she reached out to me,” shared Watkins. Adding, “I went home for a weekend, and I met with her, we had breakfast, and she basically introduced me to the team at Big Loud and introduced me to a ton of songwriters, and set me up with a bunch of writes.”

For six months, Galyon and Watkins stayed in touch before Watkins landed her publishing deal and later,  her record deal. “I had a lot of developing to do as a songwriter and an artist, and eventually it led to a publishing deal. Then for another year, they just kind of let me work. I just hustled and wrote a bunch, and played shows when I could. I was just sorta booking my own shows, and just tried to play to whoever would listen. And then that turned into a record deal.”

Today:

Flash forward to today, Watkins is quickly becoming one of the most buzzed about newcomers on the block. With only two EPs to her name, she already boasts opening spots on Conner Smith’s headlining tour, as well as, Morgan Wallen’s record-breaking stadium tour this spring. We also anticipate more new music coming down the pipeline soon.

For Watkins’ current EPs, while they are different, they each tell a story that connects. Her debut EP, Introducing: Lauren Watkins came first and was followed by her latest EP, Introducing: The Heartbreak. “Accidentally, all the writing turned into ‘Introducing: Lauren Watkins’. […] Those seven songs that we put out felt like the perfect fit for ‘Introducing: Lauren Watkins,’ because it’s about where I went to school, things I have gone through, and the way I think about things. It was just the perfect little touch of what’s to come next.”

After writing some more, her second EP fell out. “I kept writing, and that’s where ‘Introducing: The Heartbreak’ came in, and without saying too much, I kind of feel like this one is going to be the middle ground for what’s to come next, because I wanted to introduce me and introduce what I’ve gone through, and I feel like that’s the perfect set-up for whatever else comes next.”

Watkins’ catalog of music continues to impress both fans and the industry, and it is only a matter of time before everyone knows her name!

Connect:

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

For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.

To keep up with Lauren Watkins, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Lauren Watkins’ music 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.